Farmers affected by prolonged dry conditions will have access to six targeted assistance packages launched by the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry as Fiji continues to face the effects of El Niño.

The initiatives are aimed at addressing water shortages, livestock feed and water supply, crop production, household food security and drought-related challenges facing the sugar industry.

Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Tomasi Tunabuna, highlighted the packages were developed following assessments of conditions on the ground and concerns raised by farmers through agriculture stations, extension officers and farmer organisations.

The first initiative will provide emergency farm water and irrigation assistance, including water tanks, emergency water delivery, water conveyance systems and irrigation kits.

Other support will include supplementary livestock feed, livestock water, veterinary treatment, climate-resilient planting materials, drought-tolerant crops and climate-smart farming practices such as mulching, minimum tillage and drip irrigation.

The Ministry will also support household and community food production through home gardening, community nurseries and backyard farming, while sugarcane farmers will receive targeted drought protection support, including irrigation where appropriate and access to suitable early-maturity seed cane.

Tunabuna is urging genuinely affected farmers to submit an Expression of Interest for the assistance, with the initial application period open for one week.

He said applications will be assessed based on eligibility, field verification, technical suitability, the severity of the impact and available resources.

Farmers without internet access can visit their nearest Agriculture office or technical station for assistance from extension officers. 

The line ministry said the six initiatives represent the first phase of its El Niño response, with conditions continuing to be monitored across the country.