Fiji’s agricultural leaders, livestock officers, veterinary experts, and industry stakeholders convened today at Studio 6, Suva, for the 2025 Bovine Brucellosis and Tuberculosis Eradication Programme (BTEC) Forum, a pivotal event focused on safeguarding the health of Fiji’s cattle industry and strengthening livestock disease prevention efforts.

During the opening of the forum, the Permanent Secretary for Agriculture and Waterways, Dr. Andrew Tukana, emphasized the crucial role of livestock health in Fiji’s food security, rural livelihoods, and national development.

While the cattle industry remains a cornerstone of Fiji’s agricultural sector, it continues to face significant threats from bovine brucellosis and tuberculosis, diseases that jeopardize public health, reduce farmer incomes, and limit trade opportunities.

“Fijian livestock, especially cattle, are crucial assets to the nation’s agricultural and economic sustainability. However, diseases such as bovine brucellosis and tuberculosis substantially undermine profitability, food security, and public health.” said Dr. Tukana.

In response to these challenges, Fiji launched the Bovine Brucellosis and Tuberculosis Eradication Programme (BTEC), making steady progress over the years. Achievements include, expanded testing coverage, improved laboratory capabilities and increased farmer awareness.

However, disease hotspots, logistical barriers, resource constraints, and climate change vulnerabilities continue to hinder complete eradication efforts.

Dr. Tukana stressed that the two-day forum serves as a platform for stakeholders, farmers, veterinary professionals, and researchers to evaluate current capacities, discuss challenges, and develop a long-term strategy to guide BTEC efforts from 2025 to 2030.

“This forum comes at a critical time. Over the next two days, we will listen, discuss, learn, and refine a strategy that ensures lasting impact,” he said.

“Let us keep farmers at the center of our discussions and ensure that our approach is inclusive, sustainable, and resilient.”

The forum provides an opportunity for experts to leverage scientific evidence, share field experiences, and incorporate best practices from both local and global contexts, shaping a nationally cohesive eradication plan for livestock diseases.

Dr. Tukana expressed gratitude to all individuals and organizations involved in organizing the forum and thanked participants for their expertise, experience, and commitment.

“Your presence speaks volumes about the spirit of partnership needed to take Fiji’s livestock health initiatives to greater heights,” he concluded.

The Ministry of Agriculture, alongside its partners, remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard livestock health, improve disease prevention measures, and ensure the prosperity of Fiji’s farmers and agricultural communities.

ENDS

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