A 75-year-old farmer from Yaladro, Tavua, is advocating for greater government engagement with the agricultural community to rejuvenate interest in farming. Narendra Reddy, who boasts over four decades of experience in agriculture, has voiced concerns about the diminishing presence of agriculture officers and officials from the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) in recent years.
Reddy recalls a time when officials actively supported farmers through regular visits, distribution of seedlings, and hands-on advisory services. He lamented the significant reduction in this involvement over the past twenty years, emphasizing that many farmers, particularly in rural areas, feel increasingly disconnected and discouraged about their work due to a lack of support and high production costs.
He calls for ministries to not only allocate resources but to engage directly with farmers in the policymaking process. Reddy believes that enhancing regular field visits and fostering genuine dialogue could revive the agricultural sector, pointing out that increased market access could reignite the enthusiasm of farmers to return to full-scale farming. This, he argues, would have a significant positive impact on food security and rural livelihoods.
Echoing Reddy’s insights, discussions from recent agricultural forums, such as the Fiji Farmers Economic Summit, emphasize the need for improved financial access and support systems for farmers. Leaders have advocated for government guarantees and strategies tailored to boost the agricultural landscape, reflecting a collective desire for revitalization in this essential sector.
The renewed interest in supportive measures and a market-driven approach signals a hopeful trajectory for Fiji’s agricultural future. By prioritizing farmers’ voices and reconnecting with them through constructive engagement, the government can foster a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector, ultimately contributing to the nation’s economic stability and food security.
Leave a comment