Use Land, says Young Farmer
“It’s time we return to what our forefathers did, using the land and eating from their sweat, rather than relying on others for food.”
Tuesday 10 September 2024 | 14:05
Petero Maciu (top insert) with his first yaqona harvest in 2023 that brought in more than $11,000. (Insert) The new twin cab that he recently bought.
Petero Maciu, a 21-year-old from Nawi village in Cakaudrove, is challenging youths to utilise vacant land in their villages to create a sustainable living.
Having turned to farming at a young age, Mr Maciu is reaping the rewards of his hard work, planting yaqona, root crops, and vegetables on more than five acres of clan land.
He thanked his father, Sakapo Tui, for inspiring him to cultivate his land.
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“My father always encouraged me to make use of the land to have a better living,” Mr Maciu said.
“It’s time we return to what our forefathers did, using the land and eating from their sweat, rather than relying on others for food.”
Mr Maciu never regretted ending his education at Class Eight.
“I don’t want to go back to school because what I get from the land is more than what I would receive from continuing my education,” he said.
His decision to focus on farming has paid off, with his first yaqona harvest in 2023 bringing in more than $11,000.
He sells his produce, including yaqona, cassava, dalo, and bananas, at the Labasa Market, with yaqona selling at $70 to $80 per kilogramme.
Mr Maciu emphasised that sacrifice and hard work are key to success, sharing that he walks five kilometers to his farm and often sleeps there to save time.
“Despite the distance, I never gave up. I believe if all Fijians, especially iTaukei, make use of the land, it could solve many problems in Fiji, such as poverty.”
From what Mr Maciu earns has allowed him to support his family, invest in farming equipment, and even celebrate his birthday.
“I turned 21 in March, and to surprise my family, I bought two cows and invited the villagers to celebrate my birthday,” he said.
Two weeks ago, Mr Maciu also purchased a twin cab to help transport his crops to the market.
His plans now include building his own house, buying land in town, and purchasing a tractor to assist in his farming.
His advice to youths: “If you have nothing to do, make use of your time and plant the land. You will reap the rewards in due season. We have to honour God daily, who is the source of strength in our life.”
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