Ciriwai in Sigatoka has been designated as a biosecurity emergency area due to an outbreak of Asian Subterranean Termites. The announcement was made by Minister for Agriculture and Waterways Tomasi Tunabuna on October 1, following discussions with the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) and the National Disaster Management Council. This declaration is effective for six months and imposes strict restrictions on moving termites and materials that could host them into or out of the region unless authorized by BAF.
The items classified as host materials include soil, potted plants, timber, wooden furniture, and crops such as pine, mango, cassava, coconut, and sugarcane. Residents who violate these restrictions by moving these materials without permission may face legal consequences under the Biosecurity Act 2008.
Minister Tunabuna emphasized the seriousness of this declaration, outlining that any breaches will be treated as serious offenses. In response to the outbreak, the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji will coordinate containment efforts and monitor the affected area. Public awareness campaigns and inspections are currently being conducted to prevent further spread beyond Ciriwai.
Residents are encouraged to report any sightings of termites or nests to BAF promptly and to refrain from moving potentially infested materials. Historically, Fiji faced similar infestations in Lautoka and Labasa during late 2009 and early 2010, and now, with new detections in Nakasi and Sigatoka, the government is proactively addressing this growing concern.
Previous articles indicate that similar actions have been taken in Nakasi and Davuilevu, where strict measures were implemented due to the termite threat. These measures are part of an ongoing effort by the Fijian government to manage termite infestations more effectively, ensuring the protection of both agricultural and residential properties.
The government’s proactive approach in Ciriwai, coupled with past experiences and ongoing efforts to manage infestations in other regions, reflects a commitment to safeguarding communities and enhancing long-term biosecurity in Fiji.