The Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC), in partnership with the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), has successfully revived an abandoned sugar cane farm in Wainikoro, Macuata, which had been inactive for over a decade. This initiative signifies a major step towards revitalizing idle farmland, aimed at fostering economic growth and enhancing food security. CEO Bhan Singh noted that this project showcases the significant potential for transforming neglected agricultural areas into productive hubs.
FSC is committed to collaborating with local landowners and farmers to optimize the use of agricultural land. This effort aligns with the National Development Plan (NDP), which strives to empower farmers by facilitating access to training and technology while promoting the effective utilization of arable land for commercial farming.
Lakshman Jayaraman, FSC’s head of agriculture, emphasized the importance of mechanization and strategic planning in improving the efficiency and profitability of sugarcane production. He encouraged landowners with unproductive land to partner with FSC to rejuvenate sugarcane farming, which could create sustainable economic opportunities for rural communities.
In the project’s initial phase, 1.5 hectares have been prepared for planting seed cane, with plans to eventually extend cultivation to 10 additional hectares. FSC is also exploring more underutilized lands in regions like Lautoka and Labasa, collaborating with TLTB and the Fiji Development Bank to advance these initiatives.
This project not only aims to bring farmland back into productive use but also seeks to empower local farmers and promote agricultural mechanization, paving the way for long-term economic benefits. The revival efforts reflect a broader movement to modernize Fiji’s sugar industry, tackling existing challenges while fostering a positive outlook for the future of sustainable agricultural practices.
The transformation of the Wainikoro agricultural site exemplifies the power of collaborative efforts within the sector, offering hope for the future of sugar farming in Fiji. With ongoing investments and strategic programs, there is a promising path ahead for a vibrant agricultural landscape that bolsters local economies.
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