The Ministry of Sugar Industry is working to improve sugarcane productivity and provide support to sugarcane farmers in the Northern Division. They are currently assisting 22 farmers in Labasa and 36 in Seaqaqa through the New Farmers and Lease Renewal Program.
This program offers eligible farmers financial assistance covering 30 percent of the lease renewal costs, with a maximum payout of $7,500. During a recent event to distribute grant agreements to the farmers, Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh stated that the initiative is designed to alleviate financial pressures and motivate both new and veteran farmers to enhance sugarcane production.
Singh noted that the sugar industry is the largest sector in the northern division and emphasized the need for its revitalization. He pointed out that the government launched this program in response to farmers’ concerns regarding the high costs associated with lease renewal premiums.
Additionally, two farmers from Seaqaqa received support through the Farm Mechanization Grant for purchasing a cane planter and a fertilizer applicator. The Ministry also plans to extend assistance to sugarcane farmers in the western division.
To date, 177 sugarcane farmers in both the northern and western divisions have benefited from this program. Seaqaqa farmer Mohammed Janab expressed his gratitude for the government’s support, highlighting that the aid provides significant relief for him and his family, with the government covering $5,000 of his $15,000 premium.