The ongoing drainage issues impacting sugarcane farms in Northern Fiji can be traced back over 16 years of neglect from the previous administration, according to Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh. During recent discussions, Singh acknowledged that the repercussions of this neglect are now evident, creating significant hardships for local farmers.
Mr. Singh reported that the current government is actively addressing these longstanding problems, mentioning efforts that began last year to clean the drains. “We have done our share of the work,” he affirmed, while also calling on other relevant authorities to expedite their contributions to resolve these drainage challenges.
The minister emphasized his understanding of the farmers’ plight, noting that inadequate drainage has led to flooding that devastates sugarcane production. Farmers are facing considerable losses, impacting their livelihoods significantly.
Earlier reports from Singh highlighted how internal issues within the Fiji Sugar Corporation and broader politics have further complicated the landscape for sugarcane production, leading to decreased yields. He has previously urged farmers to embrace better agricultural practices and has called for the rejuvenation of the industry.
Moreover, there remains hope for recovery as the government is mobilizing resources to assess the extent of the damage caused by environmental factors and is committed to providing necessary support. Collaborative efforts between the government and farmers may open pathways for restoring productivity in Fiji’s sugar industry, suggesting a hopeful outlook amidst the challenges.
The commitment shown by both the government and farmers to tackle these issues indicates that, with a concerted effort, Fiji’s sugarcane sector can rebound and work toward a sustainable future.
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