Soil is Wealth, Says Farmer
$50K plus he earns annually from his 16-acre dalo farming.
Sunday 02 June 2024 | 13:19
Mukesh Deo in his home on his farm at Muaniweni farming community in Naitasiri. Photo: Sosiveta Korobiau
A farmer in Naitasiri is calling on unemployed youths to make use of the land because it is the key to wealth.
Mukesh Deo, 48, left school at an early age and took the risk to become a farmer.
Mr Deo is also a farmer from the Muaniweni farming settlment.
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Growing up on a farm, Mr Deo drew a lot from his parents, ways of how to use land and manage his time.
His contribution to the family’s farming and cattle business has set a benchmark.
After leaving school at the age of 14 straight after form three the transition was not difficult.
He knew land was going to help his achieve what he wants in life, it was an easy decision to make.
Starting his business with the little that he had, now he earns more than $50,000 from his dalo farm every year.
To top that, he has a ginger farm. He recently started his gravel extraction business.
His stock includes 20 cattle, a 16-acre dalo farm and seven acres of ginger.
He has 30 acres of (agricultural lease) land; he provides employment to nearby villagers.
He has been hiring 20 to 30 labourers during harvesting season every year.
“Farming is good; I am my own boss,” Mr Deo said.
With hard work and perseverance, he has won several national awards.
These have inspired him to do plant and work more.
He is a role model for young farmers around the country.
During the ginger harvesting period, Mr Deo would hire about 60 people to assist him.
He said the cost of labour may be expensive but is worth it.
“Farming is very good and it is sad to see some people going to Suva and waste time doing nothing,” he said
“When we have the land we have to use it.
There is a lot of money in farming and you are your own boss.”
Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj
