Fifty-eight-year old farmer, Hari Deo of Delaivuna in Taveuni has 2000 large size chicken at his poultry farm.

At Suva’s Grand Pacific Hotel, the father of three was awarded the agriculture award at the 2017 Fiji Development Bank’s National Small and Medium Enterprises.

He won $5,000 and a plaque.

Mr Deo said it was honour to be recognised for his hard work through FDB.

He also thanked them for their financial assistance in 2016.

He left his job as a builder to take up poultry farming in 2010.

“I was paid well at my last job and when I started farming, my earnings doubled,” he said.

“I have the largest poultry farm in Taveuni and before Tropical Cyclone Winston in 2016, I had 1000 chickens.

“All of the chickens did not survive the severe Tropical Cyclone Winston and this was when I received assistance from Fiji Development Bank.

“Through their assistance I have 2000 chicken in my poultry.

He has been a farmer since childhood and most of his eggs are sold to those living around the farm.

“They give me more layer chicks and more feeds and 90 days account to diversify and increase my farm production,” he said.

“Now, I have over 700 customers who prefer fresh locally produced eggs.

“Currently, I’m producing 100 dozens of eggs daily and the demand is increasing everyday.”

Mr Deo said with his earnings from the farm, he had managed to renovate his home.

“The farm has lifted our living  standards and enabled us to finance our children’s education,” he said.

He planned to extend his business.

“I am also planning to start looking after cows and extend my supplies to Laucala Island Resort,” he said.

Feedback:  nacanieli.tuilevuka@fijisun.com.fj