To boost sugarcane yields and assist farmers in the northern division, the Ministry of Sugar has provided help to 22 farmers in Labasa and 36 farmers in Seaqaqa through the New Farmers and Lease Renewal Program.
This program offers financial aid covering 30% of lease renewal costs, with a maximum grant of $7,500 for eligible farmers.
During a grant agreement ceremony, Charan Jeath Singh, the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and the Sugar Industry, highlighted that the initiative is designed to alleviate financial strains on farmers and motivate both new and existing growers to enhance sugarcane production.
Singh noted that the sugar industry is vital for the northern division and requires revitalization. The government’s support was initiated in response to farmers voicing their concerns regarding the steep premiums for lease renewals.
Additionally, two farmers from Seaqaqa received assistance through the Farm Mechanization Grant program, which included a cane planter and fertilizer applicator.
The Ministry plans to extend support to sugarcane farmers in the western division as well, with 177 farmers in total from the north and western divisions having benefited from this program so far.
In an expression of gratitude, Mohammed Janab, a sugarcane farmer from Seaqaqa, recognized the government’s efforts and the financial relief it has provided to his family, noting that the government covered $5,000 of his $15,000 premium.