A significant investment of $3.8 million has been made towards rehabilitating homes affected by termite infestations in the Western and Central Divisions. Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office and co-chair of the Termite Taskforce, Sakiasi Tubuna, announced that this funding has been utilized for 775 houses, with 448 applications approved in the previous fiscal year and an additional 327 in the current financial year.
The government is also extending its termite baiting program beyond the current areas of Ba, Lautoka, Nadi, Labasa, and Nakasi. Flick Hygiene Pte Ltd has been contracted through the government Tender Board to implement a baiting system for 1,000 households, aimed at eradicating existing termite colonies by placing bait stations in areas prone to infestations. This initiative will operate on a first-come, first-served basis for those applying under the Termite Subsidy Program.
Sashi Kiran, the Taskforce co-chair and Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, emphasized the importance of community engagement in this initiative. She encouraged property owners to register their homes with the Taskforce or the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji to understand the extent of the problem and ensure their homes are treated. It was noted that the government will not provide cash assistance; instead, the focus will remain on the baiting process to prevent further damage to homes.
In a positive development, Flick Hygiene’s executive director, Mohammed Zakariah, confirmed that the company has received approval from the Ministry of Agriculture to facilitate the mass distribution of bait to hardware stores nationwide. The cost for each bait is estimated to be between $30 and $40, making it accessible for many households.
This collective effort demonstrates a proactive approach to tackling a pressing issue, promoting community safety and structural integrity in housing while reducing the financial burden on affected families. By encouraging residents to participate in the baiting program, the government and stakeholders aim to foster a stronger, termite-free community for generations to come.
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