The Sugar Cane Growers Fund has been a crucial player in Fiji’s sugar industry since its founding in the late 1940s. Originally established to support farmers and provide loans, the fund has adapted over the decades to continue assisting cane growers amid evolving challenges in the agricultural sector. Recently, CEO Raj Sharma shared insights into the fund’s impact, highlighting its longevity and importance for both farmers and their families.
Originally set up as a response to rising sugar prices in Commonwealth countries, the fund established reserve funds, contributing to the Sugar Cane Price Support Fund. In his recent statements, Sharma emphasized that the institution has flourished over its nearly 80-year history, stating that it plays an essential role in stabilizing prices for farmers, especially during periods of financial uncertainty.
The fund transitioned over the years, moving from direct government association to becoming the Sugar Cane Growers Fund Authority in the 1980s. This transformation allowed for a more structured approach to lending, enabling the fund to act as a bank for registered farmers. “We cover all agricultural needs, from planting and harvesting to education and medical assistance,” Sharma noted, underlining the comprehensive support provided to enhance the livelihoods of farmers.
Since decentralizing in 1997, the fund has expanded its reach across various districts in Fiji, bolstering its support network for cane farmers. About 60-70% of loans issued are allocated for farm operations, reflecting the fund’s commitment to agricultural development. Furthermore, Sharma pointed out the legacy created through the fund, as many farmers’ children, supported by the fund’s resources, have successfully pursued higher education and professional careers.
The fund’s evolution also aligns with broader initiatives in Fiji, such as the government’s commitment to modernizing farming techniques and addressing financial hurdles faced by growers. Programs introduced by the Ministry of Sugar, focused on land access and mechanization, indicate a commitment to secure a prosperous future for the sugar industry despite existing challenges.
The combination of financial support and modernization efforts marks a hopeful future for Fiji’s sugarcane farmers. As the Sugar Cane Growers Fund continues its mission, it is playing a pivotal role in not just sustaining but enhancing the agricultural community, contributing significantly to the economy and welfare of farmers and their families.
Given the fund’s history, ongoing support from government initiatives, and successful stories from farmers, there is optimism surrounding the resilience and growth of the sugar industry in Fiji.
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