The Coalition Government says there is a pressing need for an organised reporting system to map out the problem of termite infestation and plan effective solutions.
Assistant Minister of the Office of the Prime Minister Sakiusa Tubuna made the comment as the Government launched the Termite Control Assistance Programme (TCAP) in efforts to address the escalating challenges posed by the invasive Asian Subterranean Termite (AST).
Mr Tubuna said the Biosecurity of Fiji at present only had records of those who voluntarily reported infestations.
He said in a collaborative effort with the Lautoka City Council, the TCAP pilot project would see to the development of mechanisms to register complaints.
“Residents will soon be able to file reports with the Council if they suspect termite infestations on their property. The Council will then issue reports to TCAP partners for inspection and treatment planning,” Mr Tubuna said via a government statement.
“The partnership with the Lautoka City Council is crucial in the implementation of TCAP.
“By fostering community engagement and establishing effective reporting mechanisms, we can collectively address the challenges posed by termite infestations.”
Mr Tubuna said the Asian Subterranean Termites had established themselves as invasive alien species in Lautoka and beyond, posing a significant threat to wooden structures.
He said those termites were recognised globally as a structural and building pest, and it necessitated immediate attention to prevent its spread to other parts of the country through infested items such as timber products and soil.
“To effectively manage termite infestation colonies, a dedicated termite control taskforce has been operational for several months. It is imperative that we take swift action to curb the spread of these destructive termites.”
The problem of termite infestation in Lautoka was first reported to the Biosecurity of Fiji in 2009, and Mt Tubuna said little attention was given to the issue, “resulting in widespread infestation and property damage”.
TCAP was allocated a budget of $3million in the 2023-24 fiscal year to mitigate the detrimental effects and preventing the further spread of these destructive termites.
