Petero Maciu, a young farmer from Nawi, Buca Bay, Cakaudrove, is successfully utilizing his land to support his livelihood at just 21 years old. Raised in a family where agriculture was encouraged, Petero began farming at an early age under the guidance of his father, Sakapo Tui, who promoted the importance of effective land use.
Petero is the second of five siblings and lives with his family in their village. He managed to reach Year 8 in school before deciding to focus entirely on farming, recognizing the potential benefits of land use that could also support his education. In 2020, he made strides to start his farming venture independently, vowing not to rely on others.
He cultivates various crops, including yaqona, dalo, jaina, niu, and a range of vegetables. This year, he has expanded his yaqona production, which he sells at the market in Labasa. His prices range from $70 to $80 per kilogram, and his initial sales have already netted him around $11,000.
Petero works diligently on his farm, which is about five kilometers long, and he has no plans to seek employment elsewhere, determined to improve his life through agriculture. Sometimes, he even takes his produce into the forest for easier access and management.
He believes that farming has greatly benefited him, quickly enhancing his standard of living. He asserts that everyone should embrace self-sufficiency. The fruits of his labor are significantly contributing to his family’s well-being, helping them cover various needs like household expenses and the purchase of additional food and drinks.
In March this year, Petero arranged two cattle for the villagers to celebrate his 21st birthday. In the past two weeks, he sold some of his produce to streamline the distribution of his yaqona and other crops in the market.
Petero’s story serves as an inspiration to young people in his village, who often do not utilize their time effectively to pursue similar productive endeavors. He hopes that the government will support youth who wish to cultivate their land and provide resources to get started.
Currently, Petero is seeking assistance with agricultural supplies and tools to improve the efficiency of his operations. He aims to enhance the transport routes for distributing his produce and ensure that everything he grows can reach the market.
His ultimate dream is to build a house with the proceeds from his farm, and he plans to buy a tractor to assist with his farming activities. Despite the challenges, including bad weather and pests in the fields, he remains committed to improving his farming practices.
Petero encourages his peers to seize opportunities, especially with the abundance of fertile land available in their area, urging them to utilize it effectively. He expresses that the struggling lives they face today can transform with hard work and proper land management.
“Let us rise above a life of hardship, listen to our elders, and seek divine guidance in all our endeavors,” he emphasizes.