Chinese expert checks the rice plants flattened by heavy downpours at a demonstration field of China-Aid Agricultural Development Project on rice planting in Nausori, Fiji, March 13, 2024 (Photo by Sang Qinlong/Xinhua)
SUVA, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Fiji's Agriculture Ministry said that food security and economic stability is under threat due to climate change, as adverse weather, soil degradation and rising costs make farming tougher in the island nation.
To tackle these issues, the ministry has developed a five-year strategic plan to help local farmers adapt to changing conditions and ensure sustainable food production in Fiji, the ministry's Permanent Secretary Andrew Tukana told local media on Friday.
"Number one is the development and adoption of climate-smart agriculture. Number two is the diversification of crops and livestock. Number three is the capacity building and education for our farmers and our rural population. Number four is to develop relevant and appropriate policies and policy support," Tukana said.
He added that with climate change affecting farming, adopting resilient practices is crucial.
Meteorological Services Deputy Secretary of Operations George Tavo said earlier that Fiji's agriculture sector confronts substantial challenges, and without proactive measures to mitigate the effects of climate change, a decline in the economic contribution from agriculture is anticipated.■
