In Fiji, approximately 1,500 sugarcane farmers are operating on state land, as highlighted by the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo. The Ministry of Lands is currently collaborating with the Ministry of Sugar to manage about 1,500 active sugarcane farm leases throughout the country, ensuring these lands are utilized to their full agricultural potential.
Minister Vosarogo emphasized the legal obligations tied to these leases, which are intended to maximize productivity. He also noted the importance of addressing challenges faced by sugarcane farmers, particularly regarding land lease issues and payments. To further this effort, a taskforce was recently established, including representation from several ministries, to develop long-term strategic proposals to resolve ongoing land-related challenges.
This initiative aligns with efforts previously made by the Ministry of Sugar, led by Minister Charan Jeath Singh, who has been active in addressing the issues surrounding unutilized lands held by some farmers, particularly those residing abroad. Singh’s previous statements emphasized the need for accountability among leaseholders who are not actively farming their lands, urging them to relinquish their leases to those who will cultivate them effectively.
Additionally, feedback from local farming communities indicates that absentee landowners contribute to difficulties in renewing leases, as valuable prime agricultural land remains unutilized. The CEO of the Sugarcane Growers Council has expressed concern that this trend poses a significant risk to the sustainability of the sector.
Despite the challenges, there remains a hopeful prospect for the sugar industry in Fiji through increased collaboration and strategic initiatives from various ministries. With the formation of the taskforce and the ongoing support for productive farming, it is anticipated that the industry can be revitalized, enhancing both productivity and the livelihoods of farmers across the region.
Overall, these efforts showcase a continued commitment by the Fijian government to empower local farmers and strengthen the agricultural sector, ideally leading to a more sustainable and successful farming landscape in the future.
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