The Ministry of Sugar Industry is working to improve sugarcane productivity and support farmers in the Northern Division by assisting 22 farmers in Labasa and 36 farmers in Seaqaqa through the New Farmers and Lease Renewal Program. This initiative provides eligible farmers with financial aid amounting to 30 percent of lease renewal costs, capped at $7,500.
During a recent event where grant agreements were distributed, Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh highlighted the program’s goal of alleviating financial pressures on farmers and promoting increased sugarcane production among both new and existing farmers. Singh emphasized the importance of reviving the sugar industry, which is a vital sector in the northern division.
The government’s support was implemented following farmers’ concerns regarding the high premiums associated with renewing leases. Additionally, two farmers from Seaqaqa received aid through the Farm Mechanization Grant for equipment such as a cane planter and fertilizer applicator.
The Ministry plans to extend similar assistance to sugarcane farmers in the western division. So far, a total of 177 sugarcane farmers in the northern and western regions have benefited from this program.
Seaqaqa farmer Mohammed Janab expressed his gratitude for the government’s initiative, noting that the financial support significantly eases the burden for him and his family, as the government has covered $5,000 of his $15,000 lease renewal premium.