The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) is making substantial strides in bolstering sugarcane productivity and climate resilience through the development and promotion of high-quality, location-specific cane varieties, particularly the Beqa and Galoa types. The Beqa variety, noted for its high sugar content and resilience to saline conditions, has been successfully multiplied for the first time within FSC estates and select farms, utilizing breeder seeds sourced from the Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF).
In 2022, FSC recognized the potential of the Beqa variety, which can yield up to 110 tonnes per hectare with a sugar content that is 5% higher than the widely used Mana variety. The collaborative initiative with SRIF aimed to rejuvenate these vital sugarcane cultivars and has proven successful with the broader propagation of Beqa seeds across estates in Rarawai and Nadi commencing in 2024.
FSC’s Chief Executive, Bhan Pratap Singh, emphasized the corporation’s dedication to innovation in agriculture, stating, “Our aim is to empower farmers with access to superior varieties in line with Fiji’s unique agricultural conditions.” This initiative is not just about improving yields; it also aims to enhance the sustainability of Fiji’s sugar industry amid environmental challenges.
Moreover, FSC has adopted a two-tier seed nursery program to facilitate farmer access, initially providing the seed material at no cost. This approach encourages the community to engage in multiplying and sharing the new varieties among themselves, further fostering a cooperative cultivation environment.
As the effects of climate change become more pronounced, FSC is also addressing these challenges by promoting saline-tolerant varieties such as Galoa, which is vital for farming in coastal regions affected by seawater intrusion and rising soil salinity. The proactive strategies of FSC and SRIF exemplify a broader commitment to ensuring the long-term viability of Fiji’s sugarcane sector.
Farmers interested in the Beqa and Galoa seed varieties are encouraged to contact FSC sector offices, although current availability is limited as efforts are focused on further multiplication. The collaborative effort aims to secure a more sustainable and productive future for the sugar industry in Fiji, significantly impacting food security and improving the livelihoods of sugarcane farmers.
In conclusion, these initiatives represent a hopeful future for the sugar industry, showcasing innovation and resilience as vital components in navigating the challenges of contemporary agriculture.
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