From yaqona farm to first home for Rabale, 25

A 25-year-old man who turned to yaqona farming to build his future is now celebrating a major milestone — becoming a first-time homeowner in Nakorovou Village, Kubulau, Bua.

Lui Rabale set his goal in 2022 to own a home by 2026. This week, he achieved it.

His journey was driven by determination, careful use of natural resources and support from the Government through the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management’s Rural Housing Assistance (RHA) programme.

His new home was officially commissioned on Wednesday by Minister Mosese Bulitavu.

Mr Rabale began preparing for his future while studying at the Tutu Training Centre in Taveuni between 2022 and 2025, where he invested in yaqona farming.

He planted 500 yaqona plants and later earned about $15,000 from the harvest, setting aside more than $8,000 to meet his contribution under the housing programme.

The remaining funds have been saved for future plans, including extending his home. He also has another 1,000 yaqona plants nearing harvest.

Mr Rabale is now encouraging other young people to follow a similar path.

“The land is there; the opportunity is there — it’s up to us to put in the work,” Mr Rabale said.

“If you set your mind right and stay focused, everything will align.”

He said he learned about the programme through the Kubulau District Office.

Speaking during the commissioning, Mr Bulitavu praised Mr Rabale’s initiative.

“Rabale’s story is a powerful example of what can be achieved when our young people are empowered with the right support and make full use of the resources available to them,” Mr Bulitavu said.

“This is not just about building a house; it is about building a future.”

Mr Bulitavu reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting more youths in rural and maritime areas.

“We want to see more young people take ownership of their development journey,” he said.

“Through programmes like this, we are creating pathways for sustainable livelihoods, resilience and dignity for our people.”

The Rural Housing Assistance programme aims to improve living conditions and support home ownership for low-income families in rural and maritime communities.