The Ministry of Agriculture has recognized the urgent need for improved data-driven resource allocation and is taking definitive steps to prioritize the development of underutilized agricultural land to bolster national food security. Permanent Secretary Andrew Tukana presented these plans before the Standing Committee on Natural Resources, emphasizing the importance of addressing current gaps in data that impede the ministry’s ability to optimize budgetary allocations.
Committee member Vijay Nath raised concerns regarding the effectiveness of the distribution of government agricultural assistance at the district level. He pointed out that funding is not being tailored to the specific needs of major producers in regions like Valley Road and Baulevu, suggesting that more focused assistance is necessary to boost production in these key areas.
Tukana acknowledged this feedback and committed to enhancing the data behind budget allocations. He mentioned that the planning division is already working on strategies to provide better justifications for funding amounts allocated to different regions, ensuring a more effective approach in the upcoming financial year.
In line with these efforts, the ministry remains committed to collaborating with local farmers, research stations, and development agencies. This approach aims to unlock the full potential of the available agricultural land, an initiative that syncs well with the ministry’s ongoing assessments of market demands across districts and improvements in infrastructure.
These initiatives reflect a proactive strategy aimed not only at enhancing agricultural productivity but also at ensuring food security for Fiji’s communities. By continually adapting and investing in resources, there is a sense of hope for a more resilient agricultural sector, capable of meeting both local and national demands.
The combined focus on data utilization, informed resource allocation, and collaboration with farming communities indicates a promising future for Fiji’s agriculture, enhancing its ability to support livelihoods while fostering sustainable practices.
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