The government has approved the expansion of a termite baiting program aimed at tackling the destructive Ambrosia Beetle (AST) infestation affecting various communities. The World Bank has committed to providing funds specifically for households earning less than $30,000 in the Western and Northern Divisions, including marginalized communities residing in high-risk areas known as red zones.
The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji will be responsible for overseeing and monitoring this initiative, ensuring that the baiting process is carried out effectively. This expansion falls under a broader government strategy to eliminate the termite infestation and mitigate the damage it has caused, particularly in regions like Lautoka, Nadi, Labasa, and surrounding areas, where the impact has been significantly felt for over 15 years.
The Office of the Prime Minister will coordinate the program in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji. In addition to the baiting program, further comprehensive strategies are set to be developed to address the ongoing issues associated with the infestation.
This initiative comes as a hopeful response to a longstanding problem, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving living conditions for affected communities and protecting homes from further damage.
In summary, the expansion of the termite baiting program represents a collaborative effort between government agencies and international stakeholders to combat a persistent issue, providing much-needed support to vulnerable households and aiming to restore the integrity of homes in affected regions.
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