PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE SUGAR CANE GROWERS FUND AND OCEANIA HOSPITALS PTE LTD – SCGF LOYALTY PROGRAM
Chairman of the Sugar Cane Growers Fund,
Representatives of Oceania Hospitals,
Our dedicated sugarcane farmers,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Bula Vinaka and a very good morning to you all.
It is my pleasure to be here today as we mark a significant milestone— the partnership between the Sugar Cane Growers Fund and Oceania Hospitals under the Fund’s Loyalty Program. This collaboration is more than just an agreement; it is a testament to our shared commitment to improving the well-being of our hardworking cane farmers and their families.
The sugar industry is deeply woven into the fabric of Fiji’s history, economy, and way of life. For generations, our cane farmers have worked with dedication, ensuring not only their own livelihoods but also contributing immensely to our nation’s economic progress. Their work is often challenging—physically demanding, weather-dependent, and financially uncertain.
It is only right that we, in turn, provide them with the necessary support— not just financially, but in critical areas such as healthcare, financial inclusion, and economic security. This initiative today is a step in the right direction, ensuring that our farmers are not just seen as the backbone of the industry but also as individuals who deserve access to quality services.
Healthcare Support for Cane Farmers
Today’s announcement marks an important step in bridging the gap between private healthcare and our farming communities. It is often assumed that private hospitals cater only to the wealthy, but this collaboration proves otherwise. Oceania Hospitals has demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility by ensuring that our cane farmers have access to quality and affordable medical services.
Through this partnership, Sugar Cane Growers Fund loyalty cardholders will benefit from:
-10% discount on medical procedures and treatments;
-Reduced consultation fee of $10, compared to the standard rate of $17.50; and
-Discounted dialysis fee of $180—matching the government’s subsidised rate, resulting in savings of up to $50 per session.
This initiative ensures that farmers have access to quality healthcare at more affordable rates, reducing financial burdens and prioritizing their well-being. It also highlights the importance of strong public-private partnerships in addressing the needs of our communities.
Growth of the Loyalty Program
The Sugar Cane Growers Fund serves over 10,260 productive growers, a community with significant economic influence and purchasing power. Recognising this, the Fund introduced a Loyalty Program aimed at rewarding our hardworking growers by partnering with essential service providers to offer meaningful benefits.
Since its launch in December last year, the program has already attracted over 640 registered growers—a remarkable achievement in such a short time. Today, Oceania Hospitals becomes the 13th partner to join this initiative, with five more reputable companies set to come on board soon.
Through this program, farmers can now access discounts ranging from 2% to 10% on:
-Farm machinery and implements;
-Building materials and tools;
-Medical and pharmacy services; and
-Mobile and ICT services
This holistic approach to farmer support—spanning healthcare, financial services, and agricultural resources—demonstrates our commitment to improving farmers’ quality of life beyond just cane farming.
Coalition Government’s Support for the Sugar Industry
Beyond this initiative, the Coalition Government remains steadfast in its support for our cane farmers. Last season, we delivered a historic total cane payment of $105.08 per tonne—the highest in Fiji’s sugarcane industry. Additionally, the 2024–2025 National Budget includes a $70.1 million allocation to further assist our farmers, covering various initiatives such as:
$3 million for Manual Harvesting Support
$4 million for Sugarcane Development and Farmers Assistance
$4.96 million for Cane Cartage
$1 million for Weedicide Subsidy
$4 million for Cane Access Roads
$20 million for Fertilizer Subsidy
$4 million for the Sugar Stabilization Fund
$1 million for New Farmers and Lease Premium Assistance
$1 million for the Farm Incentive Programme
$1 million for Cage Bins
$5.5 million for Drainage in sugarcane farms
These initiatives ease the financial strain on our growers, while today’s partnership with Oceania Hospitals ensures that their health and well- being are also prioritised.
Step Toward Greater Financial Inclusion
I also acknowledge the forward-thinking efforts of the Sugar Cane Growers Fund as they explore insurance schemes and other financial products for growers. Their collaboration with the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) to strengthen financial inclusion and diversify support for the cane-growing community is another promising step forward.
Additionally, today’s Valentine’s Giveaway for grower couples is a wonderful and thoughtful gesture—reinforcing the spirit of appreciation and community among our farmers. This is a reminder that beyond economic policies and financial assistance, we must continue to recognize and celebrate the people behind the industry.
Commitment to Farmers’ Well-Being
Healthcare is a fundamental right, and as a government, we are committed to improving access to quality medical services, especially in rural and farming communities. Our farmers are key contributors to our economy, and it is our duty to ensure they receive the support they need to lead healthy, secure, and productive lives.
I commend the Sugar Cane Growers Fund, Oceania Private Hospital, and all partners who have joined this Loyalty Program—and those who will join in the future. This initiative highlights the power of collaboration in driving positive change, proving that when the public and private sectors work together, we can uplift communities and improve lives.
To all our hardworking cane farmers, let me reaffirm that your Coalition Government stands with you. From financial support to healthcare and beyond, we will continue to champion initiatives that enhance your livelihoods. No farmer will be left behind in our shared journey toward economic resilience and social prosperity.
Once again, congratulations to everyone who played a role in making this partnership a reality. May this be the start of many more initiatives that put our people and their well-being at the heart of development.
Vinaka Vakalevu and thank you.