The Ministry of Agriculture is taking significant steps to enhance pest surveillance and support within the livestock sector as part of a broader initiative aimed at improving agricultural productivity and food security in Fiji. Recently, the Ministry has been allocated a substantial budget increase to $115 million, which includes $19 million designated specifically for livestock research and extension services.
Assistant Minister Tomasi Tunabuna emphasized that this funding is vital for the development and implementation of effective strategies to minimize pest-related damages to crops and agricultural resources. The focus on early detection and response systems is a crucial aspect, as it aims to safeguard farmers’ livelihoods and ensure that food security remains a priority in the region.
“This sector is essential for providing sufficient support to our rural populations who depend on farming for food and income security,” Tunabuna stated. He also mentioned the Ministry’s commitment to diversifying agricultural products, supported by additional programs in the pipeline.
Moreover, the Ministry is revising its agricultural laws to better accommodate current needs in agricultural production, aligning with the budget’s focus on modernization. An allocation of $3 million has been specifically reserved for improving farm mechanization, enhancing land lease renewals, and optimizing returns for landowners.
In pursuing comprehensive agricultural enhancement, approximately $39 million has been directed toward crop research and extension services to bolster the production of staple crops such as yaqona, dalo, rice, coconut, ginger, and vegetables. This includes $1 million for subsidies on fertilizers and weedicides to assist farmers in improving yields.
Notably, to secure farm produce from remote areas lacking private buyer operations, the Agricultural Marketing Authority received $2.5 million to facilitate market access for rural and maritime farmers.
Drainage remains a critical challenge for agricultural sustainability. Consequently, a budget of $25.6 million has been earmarked for river dredging and waterway clearing activities. This includes about $7.3 million allocated for the dredging of the Denarau River, building upon previous investments like the $5.5 million dredging of the Ba River earlier this year.
In total, these initiatives illustrate a commitment by the government to bolster the agricultural sector as a means of enhancing employment, income, and overall livelihoods in rural and maritime communities. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad highlighted the importance of the agriculture sector in driving economic resilience and food security amidst existing challenges.
These coordinated efforts signify a hopeful transformation for Fiji’s agricultural landscape, with significant potential to support sustainable farming practices and uplift rural economies. Enhanced collaboration, innovative practices, and a solid focus on market access could pave the way for a more resilient and prosperous sector.
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