The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has approved a Soil Health Documentation Project aimed at sugarcane lease areas across Fiji, a move designed to safeguard land productivity for current and future generations of iTaukei landowners.
CEO Solomone Nata said a dedicated team has been tasked with collecting and verifying historical and current soil data across sugarcane leases.
“This information will guide lease planning, renewals, and the development of new agricultural leasing guidelines,” Nata said.
He noted that since 1968, sugarcane farming has been a major land use under iTaukei leases.
However, widespread cane burning has contributed to cumulative soil degradation, declining lease renewal rates, and underutilised land. Currently, Fiji has 8,582 active cane leases.
“Cane burning harms soil fertility, depletes key nutrients, damages soil structure, releases significant CO₂, and increases health risks for nearby communities, particularly children and the elderly,” Nata said.
“This project will provide real-time, verifiable data to protect soil health, improve land value, and promote sustainable land use.”
The Board has endorsed collaboration with national agencies including the Ministry of Agriculture, Sugar Research Institute, Fiji Sugar Corporation, Department of Environment, and Fiji Meteorological Services to ensure a coordinated approach.
“Healthy soils attract better farming practices and investment, support climate resilience, and help ensure the long-term viability of the iTaukei Wealth Fund.”
“This initiative reflects TLTB’s commitment to evidence-based land management and protecting iTaukei land for generations to come.”
