Avenisa Namotu did not realise his fortune when he purchased five sandalwood plants back in 2012 for $25.

The 66-year-old Korovuto villager and former cane farmer did not realise it would one day bring him great fortune.

He also did not realise then that the five plants he was holding would one day provide a better life for his children and grandchildren once the mahogany or Yasi trees matured.

Today, he has over 200 sandalwood plants at Korovuto village.

“I went to an agriculture show and bought the five plants for $5 each.

“I came back and planted it and continued with my sugar cane farming.

“When the trees started to grow new ones sprouted up so I started to replant these sprouts.

“I would dig the hole ready and transplant up to eight in a day.”

Mr Namotu said he made sure while digging out the new trees that he took all the soil that was covering the roots with it.

“The roots were feeding from that soil so it was important to take the soil too. Now I have over 200 plants and this will continue to grow.”

Mr Namotu said he has already divided the plants amongst his children and grandchildren.

“ I told them if anything happens to me at least your future is secured.”

Mr Namotu said he had seen on television how one tree was sold for around $60,000.

He added he was happy with his decision to give equal shares to his children and grandchildren.

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