Residents of Ba grappling with termite infestations have expressed frustration over a lack of updates regarding government assistance for almost two years. Rukshana Jhan, a resident of Vatulaulau, voiced her concerns at a recent Meet the Press event, highlighting the community’s distress over the prolonged silence on this pressing issue.
Moshim Khan, the special administrator of the Ba Town Council, clarified that the responsibility for addressing termite infestations lies primarily with the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF), rather than the local council. Meanwhile, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, the Minister for Transport and Public Works, confirmed that a committee—led by Sashi Kiran, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, alongside Assistant Minister Sakiusa Tubuna—was formed to tackle the termite problems. Tuisawau reiterated the urgency of the situation, noting that the committee had been coordinating closely with BAF to manage the issue effectively.
Recent government initiatives aim to combat termite issues through an expanded baiting program and significant funding. The government has invested $3.8 million towards rehabilitating homes affected by termite infestations in the Western and Central Divisions, a step reported to have positively impacted 775 homes thus far. Additionally, the termite baiting program is expected to extend beyond current areas, with 1,000 households targeted for baiting to eradicate existing colonies.
Flick Hygiene Pte Ltd has been engaged for the baiting initiative, which includes placing bait stations in vulnerable locations. Community involvement is deemed essential, with Sashi Kiran urging homeowners to register for these services to ensure adequate treatment and prevention measures. Notably, while funding for rehabilitation efforts is available, the government is not providing cash assistance for home repairs; instead, the focus lies on proactive infestation management.
As efforts to combat this longstanding issue gain momentum, the hope is that continued government support, coupled with community engagement, will lead to safer living conditions for residents in affected areas, effectively mitigating the devastating impacts of termite infestations.
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