Moreen Ram, a rice farmer and mother, was honored as Best Young Farmer of the Year (Female) during the Fiji Rice Limited (FRL) 2023 President’s Farmers Award ceremony held in Labasa. The 35-year-old received her award from Fiji’s President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, and expressed her pride in this accomplishment while urging more women to consider rice farming as a viable business.
Residing in Muanidevo, Dreketi, Ram has dedicated the past seven years to developing her rice farming business, with strong support from her husband, a civil servant who assists her on the farm whenever he can.
Ram shared that her motivation to enter the rice farming industry stems from her family’s longstanding involvement in it. She indicated that her parents passed down valuable knowledge, which has helped her navigate the challenges of the business.
With the new farming season approaching in November, Ms. Ram is aiming to harvest seven tonnes of rice paddy. She previously faced difficulties with drainage and access to harvesting equipment, but these issues have now been addressed through a cooperative arrangement with fellow farmers who share the use of a harvester.
Ms. Ram described rice farming as a profitable venture, especially following a price increase last December from $850 to $1000 per tonne, which has encouraged farmers to persist in the industry. She intends to apply for subsidies on planting and weed control to further enhance her operations.
Encouraging other women, she stated, “It may seem difficult, but nothing is impossible if you are determined.” Her ambition is to excel in rice farming, with the goal of becoming the best farmer in Fiji, affirming that commitment is key to achieving success.