The long-dormant Sugarcane Farmers Awards will be revived under a new name, now known as the Prime Minister’s Sugarcane Farmers Awards, set to relaunch in March or April of next year. Raj Sharma, CEO of the Sugarcane Growers Fund, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasizing the longstanding tradition of recognizing farmers dating back to the late 1980s and 1990s. The official launch is scheduled for August 2 in Lautoka, with categories including young, women, and senior farmers, as well as awards for the highest producing farmer.
Sharma noted that criteria for participation will be established by Sugar Research, with evaluations occurring in January or February. The Sugarcane Growers Fund is actively seeking sponsorship from banks and insurance companies to support the awards, having secured initial pledges amounting to approximately $40,000, with hopes for additional contributions.
This revival aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the sugar industry, as evidenced by recent initiatives supporting sugarcane farmers through grants aimed at improving productivity and resource access—such as the New Farmers/Lease Premium Grant and the Farm Mechanisation Grant. These initiatives reflect a strong commitment to addressing land access issues and modernizing farming practices, which are crucial for the sustainability of the sugar industry in Fiji.
The resurgence of awards for sugarcane farmers is not only a recognition of their hard work but also a beacon of hope for the future of agriculture in the region. By celebrating achievements and providing support, the initiative can foster a vibrant and resilient farming community.
Leave a comment