A TASKFORCE has been set up in the province of Cakaudrove to form cane-cutting groups among villagers.
Roko Tui Cakaudrove Ro Aca Mataitini said the taskforce would meet this week to discuss details of its purpose.
"We need to involve our villagers in the harvesting season and it will be through cutting cane. The villagers can earn money for their families as well.
"We will visit villages in Cakaudrove and select groups from different districts to participate in this project.
"The idea was brought to our office by the Commissioner Northern's office asking for participation in the harvesting season.
"This is one way Cakaudrove can contribute to the sugar industry," Mr Mataitini said.
Over the years, Cakaudrove villagers have always been part of cane-cutting groups in Macuata.
But they organised their own groups with cane farmers.
He said the taskforce would help organise the groups this year and assist the villagers get to Macuata in the harvesting season.
"We are also looking at increasing the number of groups this year so we can have maximum contribution ù it will help shorten the harvesting season as well," he said.
Tui Macuata Ratu Aisea Katonivere last week called on his men to involve themselves in cane-cutting this year.
"This is Macuata's contribution to the sugar industry as we assist in boosting economic activities in rural areas.
"The villagers will also get double income ù from cutting cane and their farms," Ratu Aisea said.