Arvind Singh, a sugarcane farmer from Ba, has voiced grave concerns about the future of Fiji’s sugar industry, attributing its decline to persistent communication issues between stakeholders and grassroots farmers. During a recent “Meet the Press” event, Singh confronted Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh, emphasizing that it is crucial for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who chairs the Sugar Reform Select Committee, to be fully informed about the challenges farmers are facing.
Singh urged that direct dialogue with farmers is essential for the Minister to fully understand their needs, stating that the lack of responsiveness from the Ministry is alarming. He expressed disappointment over the Minister’s failure to prioritize concerns that deeply affect cane farmers, including a promised growers council election that has yet to materialize, leaving many farmers feeling neglected.
Singh highlighted a troubling trend: many farmers are leaving the sugarcane industry despite recent government announcements regarding the construction of a new mill in Rakiraki and the anticipated reopening of the Rarawai Mill. He stressed the urgency of addressing these issues, particularly as younger generations show little interest in pursuing careers in sugar farming, leading to fears that traditional practices are fading.
These sentiments resonate with previous warnings from Singh and others in the industry regarding the ongoing challenges faced by Fiji’s sugar sector, including labor shortages, payment delays, and outdated agricultural practices. A former FSC board member, Singh has noted alarming declines in sugarcane yields, with average production dropping significantly over the years, and he believes that without immediate corrective measures, the industry could face further decline.
Both current and former leaders have acknowledged that political dynamics have hindered farmer engagement. The Prime Minister’s recognition of the need for a special committee to address the crisis highlights the critical state of the industry. Calls for reforms focus not only on enhancing productivity but also on ensuring that the voices of farmers are heard in policymaking.
Indeed, amidst the challenges, there is potential for a renewed focus on collaboration between farmers, government, and industry stakeholders. By fostering open communication channels and addressing the fundamental issues faced by farmers, there lies a hopeful opportunity for revitalization in Fiji’s sugar industry, ensuring that it continues to be a vital part of the nation’s economy and agricultural heritage.
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