Sixty-year-old Peniasi Dobui is thriving despite living with a disability. He lost both of his legs in an accident at the age of 25 but has since learned to adapt and provide for his family for many years. The Nasigatoka villager from Rewa is supported by his wife, Vasemaca Dobui, and their daughter, Keresi Gabriel Dobui, whose encouragement motivates him to persevere.
Peniasi recounted his accident, stating, “It was in 1990 when I returned from Lebanon on leave. A brother of mine invited me to work in a factory in Lami. Unfortunately, on my first day there, I suffered the accident.” He reflected on his 34 years living without legs and expressed gratitude for his life, hoping to inspire others with disabilities to remain strong.
Adjusting post-accident was challenging, as even simple tasks became difficult. However, after spending three years at Tamavua Hospital with the assistance of a Japanese expert, he rehabilitated and returned to his village, determined to find ways to support his family.
In 1995, he began farming, realizing he needed to cultivate food for his family. “I took a knife, prepared a small plot, and started planting dalo,” he shared. His commitment to independence drove him to overcome the struggles of farming without legs. “I trained myself not to be disheartened and believed there is always a silver lining after hardship,” he noted.
Farming has brought him joy and success, enabling him to expand his operations. Family and neighbors place orders for his harvest, which he transports to Nasali Landing for sale. His farm features dalo, watermelon, and various vegetables, all cultivated using methods suited to his needs.
Moreover, he has achieved milestones like building a canteen and purchasing a car through his successful farming endeavors. Recently, he has adopted innovative farming techniques, such as employing a weed control maze and establishing a vegetable nursery, assisted by materials sent from his brother overseas.
Peniasi’s farm flourishes with the help of relatives Emoni Toalevu and Maikali Rasuaki. Beyond farming, he showcases diverse skills as a fisherman, carpenter, and driver. He encourages others with disabilities to harness their talents, stating, “If you push yourself to break barriers, you can achieve great things.”
He urges able-bodied individuals to return to their villages and utilize the land instead of lingering in urban areas. Grateful for the love and support from his family and community, Peniasi plans to expand his farm further, introducing more varieties of dalo and vegetables.
Sowinden Tekairaba, an Agriculture Assistant in Rewa, highlighted that assistance for farmers with special abilities exists in the ministry, and they plan to support Peniasi in the next financial year. Currently, he has planted 1,700 dalo and has plans to cultivate tomatoes as well.
As he looks forward, Peniasi remains committed to his journey, demonstrating that true success is measured not by the absence of challenges but by how one transcends them. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact perseverance and community support can have in transforming adversity into achievement.