The Fall Armyworm remains a serious and growing threat to Fiji’s agriculture sector, and urgent, united action is needed to contain and suppress its spread.

This was the clear message delivered by the Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Vatimi Rayalu, during his visit today to two affected farms in Uciwai, Nadi.

Hon. Rayalu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling the pest head-on and stressed the need for nationwide cooperation.

“Fall Armyworm is an enemy to Fiji’s agricultural production and was identified in April this year,” said Hon. Rayalu.

“It jeopardizes our food security, farmer livelihoods, and national economic growth. This threat must be dealt with through all means possible — from scientific control methods to grassroots community action.”

Since establishing its presence, Fall Armyworm is seen to be targeting maize at this point in time.

Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF), Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways (MoAW) has been actively leading a comprehensive response, which includes:

Enhanced field surveillance and early detection systems to contain new outbreaks;

Farmer awareness sessions focused on the affected areas and its vicinity;

Deployment of control measures where necessary;

Continuous collaboration with international agricultural partners to access technical support and best management practices.

Hon. Rayalu also took the opportunity to commend frontline personnel for their dedication to the ongoing operations and specifically acknowledged the contributions of officers from BAF, SRIF and MoAW.

“Please know that you are doing the hard yards because of your passion for your country and for our shared responsibility of keeping agriculture safe from pests and diseases,” he said.

“Your tireless efforts on the ground are making a difference, and we thank you for your service.”

He emphasized that fighting this pest requires full participation from everyone involved in agriculture.

“We are mobilizing resources and technical support, but success depends on every farmer, extension officer, and stakeholder playing their part. The Fall Armyworm does not respect borders or farm boundaries — we must respond with a unified, all-hands-on-deck approach,” he said.

The ministry is urging all farmers to remain vigilant, report any signs of infestation, and adopt recommended control strategies without delay.

 ENDS

• ← Go to all Press Releases