A farmer from Votua Village in Ba has reached out to the Ministry of Sugar and the Lands Department for assistance in revitalizing sugarcane farming across 44 acres of state land in Karavi. During a recent Town Hall meeting in Ba, Village Secretary Salesitino Caucau shared that their lease application was approved in 2022; however, planting efforts have been stalled after the Sugar Research Institute classified the land as too salty for cultivation.
Caucau noted that the community has invested over $50,000 to secure the land and is now calling for governmental support in improving drainage systems, enhancing road access, and providing temporary rent relief while they await approval for planting. Permanent Secretary for Sugar, Dr. Vinesh Kumar, recognized the challenges faced by the farmers, confirming that the ministry is aware of the salinity issue that has impeded their planting efforts.
Dr. Kumar indicated that the ministry’s research team is ready to assist by conducting trials on a portion of the land, possibly one acre, to identify which varieties of sugarcane might be suitable for the conditions present. He committed to working closely with the farmers to explore effective soil improvement and drainage solutions necessary to make the land viable for cultivation.
Similar to other farmers across Fiji, those in Ba are facing various challenges, including concerns over land use and access to grants, which have significantly impacted their ability to cultivate crops. In Labasa, for example, farmers have expressed frustration over delays in receiving their planting grants, highlighting the critical need for timely financial support to maintain their livelihoods and contribute to the regional economy.
In response to these ongoing challenges, the Ministry of Sugar has initiated several programs designed to provide loans, assistance, and improved practices to foster a sustainable agricultural environment. Recent government efforts show a commitment to addressing these issues, presenting a hopeful outlook for the future of sugarcane farming in Ba and beyond as both the government and farmers work collaboratively towards revitalizing the industry.
This dialogue between farmers and government officials signifies a shared aim to sustain and enhance Fiji’s agricultural sector while ensuring that local farmers receive the necessary backing to overcome hurdles and maintain the productivity of their lands.
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