The Ministry of Agriculture is intensifying its strategies to combat the kava dieback disease, which poses a significant threat to farmers’ livelihoods and the kava industry in Fiji. Assistant Minister Tomasi Tunabuna has announced that the ministry is collaborating with farmers and agricultural experts to develop effective tracking measures and protect kava crops. This initiative comes shortly after the announcement of a dedicated budget aimed at addressing the disease and enhancing agricultural capabilities.
Tunabuna emphasized the importance of ongoing surveillance not only for kava but also for other agricultural diseases, reflecting a comprehensive approach to agriculture in Fiji. He expressed optimism that the ministry’s resources would enable better disease monitoring and management strategies to safeguard this vital sector.
The kava dieback disease, known to be associated with the cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), has historically impacted farmers, particularly in areas like Nadua, Wainunu, and Bua, leading to declining production and market instability. Farmers have reported alarming crop losses, prompting urgent calls for support as kava harvesting intensifies to prevent further degradation.
Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has also weighed in, aiming to control the disease within 12 months. He highlighted the late Honorable Minister for Agriculture’s previous efforts and expressed hope that recent initiatives would yield positive changes.
Past research has shown that outbreaks of kava dieback have occurred intermittently since 1934, with significant production drops noted between 1998 and 2003, as well as more recently from 2021 to 2023. During these periods, rising kava prices motivated farmers to expand planting significantly, which unfortunately led to extensive deforestation and shifts towards mono-cropping practices.
Despite these challenges, a sense of resilience persists within the kava farming community, supported by recent educational workshops on sustainable farming practices. This emerging focus on maintaining plant and soil health through intercropping techniques promotes a hopeful outlook for the future of kava farming.
Continued collaboration and innovative strategies can support the sector’s recovery and sustainability, paving the way for a revitalized kava industry that keeps farmers’ concerns at the forefront.
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