Vegetable farmers in Korotari, Labasa, are facing increasing challenges as dry weather conditions continue to affect their farms.
Farmers say they are being forced to work harder to keep their crops alive, with some now calling on the Government for assistance with water pumps and water containers.
53-year-old Korotari farmer Rupeni Vesikula says the drought is already taking a toll on his vegetable farm.
He says although a river runs beside his farm, he has been forced to use bottles and gallons to collect water from the river and manually carry it to his crops.
He says farmers put in a lot of effort, hoping to make a profit, but the dry conditions are making farming even more difficult.
Vesikula says the drought is also affecting vegetable supply and prices.
He says some farmers are unable to plant, resulting in shortages in some areas and higher prices for consumers.
Vesikula says the reduced production is therefore putting additional financial pressure on farming families.
He says the amount farmers earn from their produce has also dropped significantly.
He says last year, a bag of tomatoes could fetch around $70, while farmers are now receiving only between 20 and $30.
Vesikula is now calling on the Government to provide assistance to farmers, particularly through water pumps and water containers.
Questions have been sent to Office of the Prime Minister the Minister responsible for National Disaster Risk Management Mosese Bulitavu, Minister for Public Works.
