Sixty-year-old Peniasi Dobui is thriving despite living with a disability. After losing both legs in an accident at 25, he has learned to adapt to life without them and has successfully provided for his family for many years. Residing in Nasigatoka village, Rewa, he draws strength from the love and support of his wife, Vasemaca, and their daughter, Keresi.
Reflecting on the accident that changed his life, Peniasi shared, “It was in 1990 when I returned from Lebanon on leave. A brother invited me to work in a factory in Lami, and on my very first day, I encountered a mishap.” He has been living without legs for 34 years and expresses gratitude for being given a second chance to inspire others with disabilities.
After the accident, even simple tasks became daunting challenges. However, with guidance from a Japanese expert during his three-year hospitalization at Tamavua, he regained the strength to adapt to his new reality. In 1995, he turned to farming to sustain his family, starting with a small plot of land where he planted taro.
Peniasi was determined not to let his disability dictate his life. He faced difficulties while learning to navigate the land but remained resilient, believing that there was always hope. Farming has become a source of happiness for him, allowing him to provide for his family and even achieve milestones like constructing a canteen and buying a car.
His farming techniques have evolved, incorporating innovative methods like a weed control maze for taro and a nursery for vegetables, thanks to material support from his brother overseas. Peniasi’s farm thrives with a variety of crops, including taro, watermelon, and vegetables, fulfilling the needs of his family and managing to sell surplus produce.
Beyond farming, Peniasi is also a fisherman, carpenter, and driver. He encourages others with disabilities to recognize their potential: “If you push yourself to break barriers, you will achieve great things. Do not feel helpless or ashamed of your situation.” Additionally, he calls on able-bodied individuals to return to rural areas and utilize the land rather than loiter in urban centers.
With plans to diversify his crops further, Peniasi is grateful for the community support he has received throughout his journey. The Ministry of Agriculture recognizes his efforts, and officials plan to assist him in enhancing his farming operations in the future.
As Peniasi looks ahead, he emphasizes that true success is measured not by the absence of challenges but by the perseverance to overcome them and the positive impact one can have on others. His story stands as a testament to resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of a supportive community in turning adversity into success.