Moreen Ram, a mother who has transitioned into an entrepreneur and rice farmer, was honored as the Best Young Farmer of the Year (Female) at the Fiji Rice Limited (FRL) 2023 President’s Farmers Award ceremony held in Labasa yesterday. The 35-year-old received her award from the President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, and expressed overwhelming pride in her accomplishment.
Living in Muanidevo, Dreketi, Ms. Ram has dedicated the past seven years to establishing her rice farming business, with strong support from her husband, who is a civil servant. She noted, “My husband is a civil servant, but he always finds time to help me with the farm.”
Growing up in a family with a deep-rooted legacy in rice farming motivated Ms. Ram to pursue this path. She explained that her family has a long history in this industry, with knowledge passed down from her parents. As the new rice planting season approaches in November, she hopes to harvest seven tonnes of rice paddy.
Ms. Ram mentioned that drainage issues and access to a harvester had previously limited her production, but those problems have been addressed through a cooperative she joined. “I’m part of a rice farming cooperative, where we farmers take turns using the harvester,” she said.
She highlighted rice farming as a profitable venture, pointing out a significant price increase last December that encouraged farmers to stay in the industry. Ms. Ram plans to apply for subsidies on planting and herbicides to enhance her operations.
Encouraging other women to consider rice farming, Ms. Ram said, “It may seem difficult, but nothing is impossible if you are determined.” She has set her sights on becoming the best farmer in Fiji, stating, “We women can achieve anything, but we must stay committed to our goals.”