Dumping of animal waste has an adverse impact on the environment, says Minister for Agriculture Dr Mahendra Reddy.
Mr Reddy said this was one of the reasons the ministry would be assisting farmers dispose of their animal waste properly.
“With an allocation of $88,000, 22 farmers will be provided with home biogas digester equipment worth $8000,” he said.
“With this assistance, pollution issues generated from animal waste encourage adoption of sustainable environment-friendly practices.
“Piggery and smallholder dairy farmers can apply for this program.”
He said that funding would also be to farmers engaged in organic farming.
“The ministry has set aside $500,000 under this program for 30 commercial farmers and agro-processors that are already established but intend to expand their business.
“Under this program, the ministry is providing 20 per cent equity support on loans through the Fiji Development Bank (FDB).
“The equity is available to qualified farmers and agro-processors ranging from $8000 to $250,000.”
The agriculture minister added that support would also be provided for six farmers in the piggery sector.
“With a budget of $32,000, six farmers will be assisted with a standard farrowing unit at a cost of $5500. The farrowing crates support will be used as a form of maternity housing for pigs, thereby reducing mortality, maximising piglet growth rate and maintaining sow (mother pig) ready for the next biological cycle.
“Existing pig farming clusters or individual farmers can apply for this initiative.”
