The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC), in collaboration with the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), has revitalized an abandoned sugar cane farm in Wainikoro, Macuata, transforming it into an agricultural hub after over a decade of inactivity. CEO Bhan Singh emphasized that this success showcases the significant potential for reclaiming idle farmland to promote economic growth and enhance food security.
Singh highlighted FSC’s commitment to partnering with local landowners and farmers, aiming to maximize the effective use of agricultural land. The initiative aligns with the National Development Plan (NDP), which focuses on optimizing underutilized arable land for commercial farming, and includes empowering farmers through training and technology adoption.
FSC’s head of agriculture, Lakshman Jayaraman, stated that the incorporation of mechanization and strategic planning is essential for improving the efficiency and profitability of sugarcane farming. He urged landowners with idle farmland to collaborate with FSC to revitalize sugarcane production, which could lead to more sustainable economic opportunities for rural communities.
As part of the project’s initial phase, 1.5 hectares were prepared for seed cane, which will eventually support an additional 10 hectares of sugarcane cultivation. Beyond Wainikoro, FSC is actively identifying more underutilized land for development in other regions such as Lautoka and Labasa, and it is working with TLTB and the Fiji Development Bank to push these initiatives forward.
This endeavor not only aims to restore farmland into productive use but also to empower local farmers and promote agricultural mechanization to secure long-term economic benefits. The project reflects a broader movement to modernize Fiji’s sugar industry, addressing various challenges and setting a hopeful tone for its future sustainability and growth.
The revival of this agricultural site in Wainikoro stands as a testament to the potential of collaborative efforts in the sector, inspiring hope for the future of sugar farming across Fiji. Continued investments and strategic programs indicate a promising trajectory towards a robust agricultural landscape that supports local economies.
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