Sea level rise is severely impacting sugarcane farming in Wailevu, Macuata, where the relentless encroachment of saltwater is ruining crops and jeopardizing the livelihoods of families who have cultivated this land for generations. Mahen Lal, a farmer in Wailevu Tiri—an area located nearly two meters below sea level—reports that the flooding of cane fields with seawater during high tides has led to a significant decline in soil fertility and crop yields.
Farmers have faced the challenges of saltwater intrusion for decades, yet effective interventions have been insufficient, despite the escalating losses in agricultural productivity and income. Lal expressed his frustration, stating, “Seawater comes inside and our sugarcane dries up and is finished. We keep complaining, but there is no proper solution.”
The ongoing decline in cane production has forced many families to abandon farming as their land grows less viable. Farmers in Wailevu are now urgently calling for improvements to floodgate infrastructure and the dredging of local waterways. They emphasize that without prompt and effective action, the sugarcane industry in their region may face extinction.
Nonetheless, the resilience of the farming community in Wailevu remains strong. Their determination to find solutions and preserve their agricultural heritage provides a glimmer of hope. With the right support and measures, there’s potential to revitalize the industry and ensure a sustainable future for sugarcane farming in this area.