Prime Minister and Minister for Forestry, Voreqe Bainimarama has acknowledged the former Minister for Forestry, Osea Naiqamu for the work he has done to raise the bar in the forestry sector and also empowering resource owners.
Bainimarama says travelling to rural and remote areas and outer islands covering more than 300 villages in about 24 months is no mean feet.
He says the fact that Fiji has planted close to 7 million trees during this time is a testament to Naiqamu’s efforts and unfortunately this has also taken a toll on his health.
Bainimarama adds 157 staff of the Ministry of Forestry are part of the establishment currently deployed to the frontline in the efforts to contain the current COVID-19 outbreak.
Meanwhile, SODELPA MP, Mitieli Bulanauca has called on Bainimarama who is also the Chair of the Fiji Mahogany Industry Council to ensure the Ministry carries out the certification of mahogany plantations.
He says we need to export more logs overseas.
