A new portable sugarcane harvester designed specifically for hilly terrains is poised to revolutionize the harvesting process for farmers operating in high-elevation areas. Imported from Japan by the Ministry of Sugar, this innovative machine is set to alleviate the challenges faced by these farmers in steep regions.
Line Minister Charan Jeath Singh recently traveled to Japan to examine the harvester’s capabilities and shared details and images of the machine on social media, announcing its imminent arrival in Fiji. During consultations with local growers, he addressed the significant difficulties in manually harvesting sugarcane from steep farms, where a considerable portion of Fiji’s cane is cultivated.
“This harvester will maximize harvesting opportunities and ease the burden on farmers,” Mr. Singh stated, highlighting the pressing issues farmers face, including labour shortages and transportation obstacles worsened by adverse weather conditions.
The new harvester features specialized tracks designed to enhance mobility on uneven terrain, effectively tackling these issues. Tui Labasa, Ratu Jone Qomate, emphasized the crucial role of mechanization in ensuring the sustainability of Fiji’s sugarcane industry. “Investing in machinery is essential to solve the labour shortage problem,” he remarked, underscoring the industry’s reliance on timely technological upgrades to maintain its viability.
Farmer Mohammed Yunus also noted the increasing challenges in finding manual labour for harvesting. With the introduction of this specialized harvester, farmers in Fiji’s challenging terrains can expect a more efficient and less labor-intensive harvesting process, paving the way for a more sustainable future in the sugarcane industry.
This development not only promises to enhance productivity but also indicates a shift towards modernization in agriculture, essential for meeting the growing demands of the sugarcane industry. The arrival of such technology can inspire hope for better economic stability and job creation within farming communities, fostering a more resilient agricultural sector.
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