Moreen Ram, a former mother turned 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. The 35-year-old was visibly emotional as she accepted her award from Fiji’s President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
Proud of her accomplishment, Ms. Ram encouraged more women to consider rice farming as a sustainable business opportunity. Living in Muanidevo, Dreketi, she has dedicated the last seven years to developing her rice farming enterprise, with significant support from her husband, a civil servant who makes time to assist her on the farm.
Ms. Ram shared that her motivation comes from her family’s deep roots in rice farming, with knowledge passed down from her parents. As the new planting season approaches in November, she aims to harvest seven tonnes of rice paddy. In the past, challenges such as drainage issues and limited access to harvesting equipment impacted her yield. However, these problems have been addressed through cooperative farming efforts.
Describing rice farming as a lucrative venture, Ms. Ram highlighted a price increase for rice from $850 to $1,000 per tonne last December, which encourages farmers to stay in the field. She also intends to apply for subsidies on planting and herbicides to enhance her agricultural practices.
Encouraging women to pursue rice farming, Ms. Ram stated, “It may seem difficult, but nothing is impossible if you are determined.” She aspires to reach her goal of becoming the best farmer in Fiji, emphasizing that women can accomplish anything by staying committed to their objectives.