The Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry has confirmed that initial assessments following Tropical Cyclone Vaianu estimate $1.5 million in agricultural losses, with significant impacts recorded across key farming regions.
Speaking a press conference this week, the Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Hon. Tomasi Tunabuna, acknowledged the resilience of Fiji’s farmers and stakeholders across the food value chain, commending their role in maintaining food supply despite recent challenges.
“Farmers are the heartbeat of this nation. Their resilience has ensured that food continues to reach our tables, even in the face of extreme adversity,” said Minister Tunabuna.
The Initial Damage Assessment (IDA), conducted between 8–10 April, revealed that over 66.7 per cent of total losses occurred within the crop sub-sector, including cassava, papaya, banana, plantain, yaqona, and export vegetable commodities.
Flooding and prolonged rainfall caused extensive damage in the Western Division, parts of Kadavu, and Naitasiri.
A total of 13,769 agricultural households has been directly and indirectly affected.
“These figures represent real families whose livelihoods depend on agriculture. Government recognises the urgency of providing timely support,” he added.
In response, the Ministry is rolling out a targeted rehabilitation programme focused on the most affected areas, including Kadavu, Ba, Ra, Nadroga/Navosa, and Naitasiri.
Key measures include:
- A one-week Expression of Interest (EOI) period for affected farmers, effective immediately
- A one-week verification process conducted by locality officers
- Provision of seedlings, planting materials, agro-inputs, and technical support.
The Ministry has indicated that full rollout of assistance will be completed within three weeks.
In addition to cyclone-related damage, the Ministry highlighted the impact of the ongoing global fuel crisis, driven by geopolitical instability affecting the Strait of Hormuz.
Rising fuel costs have significantly increased the price of agricultural inputs, land preparation, and transportation, placing additional strain on farmers and food systems.
“While global factors are beyond our control, our response must be decisive and forward-looking,” Minister Tunabuna stated.
To address these challenges, Government has introduced a Crisis-Responsive Package built on four strategic pillars:
- Food Security & Nutrition
- Fuel & Energy Security
- Fertiliser Supply & Price Stabilisation
- Agriculture Logistics & Freight Cost Stabilisation
The package prioritises climate-smart approaches and import-substitution strategies to strengthen national resilience.
As part of immediate support to households, Government has launched Phase One of the Scaling-Up Home Gardening Initiative under the theme: “From Our Backyards to Our Plates: Grow What You Eat, Beat Rising Prices.”
The initiative adopts a whole-of-government approach in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection.
It aims to:
- Promote household-level food production
- Improve access to nutritious food
- Prioritise vulnerable groups, including low-income families, single mothers, and the elderly
A two-week application period is now open, with targeted support to follow.
The Ministry is urging all Fijians to take an active role in strengthening food security.
“Every backyard garden contributes to national resilience. Growing what we eat is one of the most powerful steps we can take to ease the cost of living and secure our future.”
The Ministry will continue to provide updates as further interventions are rolled out.