A new threat is emerging for sugarcane production in the Western Division, with farmers reporting a suspected termite infestation that poses significant risks to their crops. During a visit to the Lovu Sector cane farming community in Lautoka, Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Waterways, and Sugar Industry Inosi Kuridrani learned from farmers that termites are wreaking havoc on sugarcane fields, and currently, no effective chemical solutions exist to combat this pest.
Farmers expressed grave concerns over emerging losses attributed to this infestation, which could worsen the already critical conditions in the sugarcane sector. The industry is already dealing with multiple challenges, including expiring land leases, inadequate drainage, deteriorating farm access roads, and increasing costs associated with harvesting and transportation.
Growers warned that if immediate action is not taken, the termite outbreak could further impact productivity and profitability in a sector that is currently struggling to find stability. In response, Kuridrani assured the farmers that Biosecurity authorities would be mobilized to carry out on-site assessments to evaluate the extent of the infestation.
Acknowledging the considerable pressures faced by cane farmers, Kuridrani emphasized the urgent need for reforms as responsibilities for the sugar sector transition to the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways. In light of the situation, farmers are calling for prompt technical support and sustainable solutions, stressing the importance of addressing pest damage to protect efforts aimed at revitalizing Fiji’s sugar industry.
The farmers’ proactive approach and the promise of government engagement provide a glimmer of hope that with timely intervention, the challenges posed by the termite infestation can be mitigated and the sugar industry can work toward a more stable future.
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