The Sugar Cane Growers Fund is encouraging Fijian farmers to harvest green cane instead of burning it, in order to support climate-friendly farming and protect the environment.
CEO Raj Sharma says that although it can be challenging, harvesting green cane is important.
He explains that there are penalties to stop cane burning, but also attractive incentives to support green harvesting.
He says one major benefit for farmers is a reduced loan interest rate of 4 percent, compared to the usual 4.5 percent, under the Fund’s Green Cane Incentive program.
To qualify, farmers must harvest at least 75 percent of their crop as green cane.
Sharma says the program began last year and is already helping 790 Fijian farmers, who have received loans worth $7.55 million, making up 22 percent of the Fund’s total loan portfolio.
He also shared that in the last crushing season, 471 farmers harvested 100 percent green cane, showing strong support for sustainable farming practices.
The CEO says this program aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals and benefits many Fijians.
He says the Fund is offering special loan packages for working-class farmers, women, and farmers with disabilities, making it easier for all groups to access support.
Sharma adds that the Fund is also providing new insurance options — including Mortgage Protection Cover with Capital Insurance this month, and General Insurance with Sun Insurance
This initiative not only supports environmental goals but also helps improve the financial well-being of Fiji’s farming communities.
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