Petero Maciu, a 21-year-old from Nawi village in Cakaudrove, is urging young people to utilize unused land in their communities to foster a sustainable lifestyle. Maciu, who embraced farming at a young age, has successfully cultivated over five acres of clan land, growing yaqona, root vegetables, and other crops.
He attributes his motivation to farm to his father, Sakapo Tui, who has always encouraged him to use the land for a better life. “It’s time we return to what our ancestors did, utilizing the land and benefiting from our own efforts, instead of depending on others for food,” he stated.
Maciu has no regrets about leaving school after completing Class Eight. He believes that the profits he reaps from farming exceed what he could achieve through further education. His commitment to agriculture yielded impressive results, with his first yaqona harvest in 2023 earning him over $11,000. He sells his crops, including yaqona, cassava, dalo, and bananas, at the Labasa Market, where yaqona prices range between $70 and $80 per kilogram.
He highlighted that hard work and sacrifice are essential for success, sharing that he walks five kilometers to his farm and often sleeps on-site to maximize his productivity. “Despite the distance, I never gave up. I believe if all Fijians, especially iTaukei, utilize the land, we can address many challenges in Fiji, such as poverty,” Maciu remarked.
His earnings have enabled him to support his family, invest in farming tools, and even celebrate his birthday in style. “I turned 21 in March and surprised my family by buying two cows and inviting the entire village to my birthday celebration,” he shared. Recently, he also purchased a twin cab to facilitate transporting his goods to the market.
Looking ahead, Maciu has plans to build a house, acquire land in town, and purchase a tractor to enhance his farming operations. His message to young people is clear: “If you find yourself with idle time, take the opportunity to plant and cultivate the land. The rewards will come in due time. We must honor God daily, who is our source of strength in life.”