A total of 73 farm roads have been constructed from 2023 to date, reflecting the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways continued commitment to improving rural infrastructure and supporting agricultural development.

In a written response to a question by Honourable Jovesa Vocea in Parliament yesterday (Monday 3rd November), the Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Tomasi Tunabuna, reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing rural infrastructure through its Farm Access Program.

Hon. Tunabuna stated that the construction of farm roads plays a pivotal role in strengthening the agricultural sector and improving the livelihoods of farmers across Fiji.

The construction of farm roads serves several key purposes:

Enhancing market connectivity as many farmers in remote areas face challenges in transporting their produce to markets. These roads reduce travel time and costs, enabling farmers to sell their goods more efficiently.

Encouraging farm expansion: Improved access allows farmers to utilize previously inaccessible land, promoting larger-scale farming and crop diversification.

Boosting food security and income generation: Better access to inputs and markets strengthens Fiji’s agricultural resilience and productivity, especially in rural and maritime communities.

The benefits of these farm roads extend beyond agriculture:

Improved livelihoods: Easier and more reliable transport increases farmers’ income and reduces post-harvest losses.

Community development: Infrastructure improvements stimulate local economies, encourage youth engagement in agriculture, and build community resilience.

Social inclusion: The initiative ensures equitable development by reaching even the most remote farming communities.

Increased production: Improved logistics lead to higher agricultural output through timely delivery of inputs and harvests.

During the 2023–2024 financial year:

Central Division: 11 farm roads constructed (16.3 km), benefiting 314 households.

Western Division: 14 farm roads (35.5 km), benefiting 1,030 households.

Northern Division: 2 farm roads (10.5 km), benefiting 105 households.

Eastern Division: 3 farm roads (67 km), benefiting 118 households.

During the 2024–2025 financial year:

Central Division: 25 farm roads (45.9 km), benefiting 405 households.

Western Division: 11 farm roads (47.5 km), benefiting 433 households.

Northern Division: 3 farm roads (9.5 km), benefiting 109 households.

Eastern Division: 4 farm roads (8.9 km), benefiting 121 households.

A total of 13 new farm roads are scheduled for construction in the 2025–2026 financial year, including:

7 in the Central Division

4 in the Western Division

1 in the Northern Division

1 in the Eastern Division

While progress has been significant, Hon. Tunabuna acknowledged several challenges that affect timely project delivery like lengthy tender processes which delay project commencement, limited contractor capacity as many service providers are engaged across multiple ministries to name a few.

Hon. Tunabuna concluded in his written response that the Farm Access Program remains a cornerstone of the Ministry’s development strategy, underscoring the Government’s commitment to empowering farmers, strengthening food security, and driving inclusive economic growth. 

ENDS

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