Moreen Ram, a mother and rice farmer, was honored as the Best Young Farmer of the Year (Female) during the Fiji Rice Limited (FRL) 2023 President’s Farmers Award ceremony held in Labasa yesterday. The 35-year-old was visibly moved upon receiving her award from the President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
Ms. Ram expressed her pride in this accomplishment and urged more women to consider rice farming as a viable business opportunity. Based in Muanidevo, Dreketi, she has been developing her rice farming enterprise for the past seven years, with significant support from her husband.
“My husband works as a civil servant, but he always manages to dedicate time to assist me on the farm,” she shared.
Reflecting on the motivations behind her entry into rice farming, Ms. Ram revealed her family’s long-standing connection to the industry. “We have always had a background in rice farming,” she explained, highlighting the knowledge that was handed down from her parents.
As the new harvesting season approaches in November, Ms. Ram is targeting a yield of seven tonnes of rice paddy. She acknowledged that drainage issues and limited access to a harvester had previously impacted production, but these challenges have been addressed through a cooperative arrangement among local farmers.
“I am part of a rice farming cooperative, which allows us farmers to share the harvester,” she stated.
Ms. Ram characterized rice farming as a lucrative business, noting that a price increase from $850 to $1000 per tonne in December encouraged farmers to continue their work in the field. She also intends to apply for subsidies for planting and herbicides to enhance her farming operations.
Encouraging other women to venture into rice farming, Ms. Ram remarked, “It might appear daunting, but nothing is impossible if you are determined.” With a clear vision in mind, she emphasized, “We women can achieve anything, but we must stay committed to our goals. My ambition is to one day become the best farmer in Fiji.”