The Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways has announced that the sugar industry in Fiji is poised to benefit significantly from the Pacific Resilience Facility, which aims to enhance the sector’s resilience against climate change impacts.
During a recent presentation to the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, Permanent Secretary for Agriculture Andrew Tukana emphasized the importance of this investment for the sugar industry. He stated that the initiative’s goal is not only to mitigate disaster-related losses but also to promote environmentally sustainable practices that will strengthen the sector, a crucial component of Fiji’s economy.
Tukana detailed some of the specific areas of investment, including drainage rehabilitation, flood protection structures, climate-resilient sugarcane production systems, and the maintenance of rural access roads essential for transportation during extreme weather incidents. These developments are expected to safeguard rural incomes and stabilize agricultural production—an effort that is increasingly vital given the rising frequency of cyclones, droughts, and flooding in the region.
The funding from the Pacific Resilience Facility will complement existing efforts aimed at protecting the investments of farmers and enhancing the agricultural framework in Fiji. This includes support for small-scale farming systems, improvements to water catchment projects, and upgrades to critical infrastructure.
Tukana noted that empowering sugarcane farmers, particularly at the grassroots level, is central to ensuring food security and stable livelihoods in the face of ongoing climate challenges. Through these initiatives, the Ministry aims to reinforce the long-term sustainability of the sugar industry and contribute to a more secure future for farming communities in Fiji.