Former politician and cane farmer George Shiu Raj has passionately urged sugarcane farmers in Fiji to recognize their crucial role as the backbone of the nation’s economy. Speaking at the Ministry of Sugar Industry office, he highlighted the importance of their hard work, stating that their contributions extend beyond their families and directly support Fijian society.
Shiu Raj emphasized the pride farmers should take in their work, stating, “Remember, if you are a cane farmer, you are not living for your family, you are not assisting for yourself, but you are assisting for our beloved nation Fiji.” He pointed out that while tourism and other sectors have their merits, the benefits of sugarcane farming are particularly significant for grassroots communities, with sugar payments circulating through households nationwide.
Moreover, he encouraged farmers to uphold values such as religion, honesty, and hard work, sharing his commitment to investing in the industry to support farmers, particularly in the Western Division of Fiji.
This call for pride and responsibility among sugarcane farmers resonates alongside recent messages from Fiji’s Sugar Minister, Charan Jeath Singh, who has recently stressed the urgency of accountability within the farming sector. Singh has criticized farmers for failing to meet their financial obligations regarding loans and emphasized that farmers must genuinely commit to their land responsibilities or step aside for others willing to engage.
As both Shiu Raj and Minister Singh’s messages converge, there is a hopeful outlook that with collective commitment and integrity, the sugarcane industry in Fiji can overcome its challenges and flourish once again. Together, these voices are advocating for a more resilient, productive future for Fiji’s agricultural landscape, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability as pathways to revitalization.
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