Petero Maciu, a young farmer who has successfully utilized his land to support his livelihood, is making significant strides in agriculture. At just 21 years old, Petero hails from Nawi, Buca Bay in Cakaudrove.
He began farming at a young age with encouragement from his father, Sakapo Tui, who emphasized the importance of effective land use. Petero is the second of five siblings and lives with his extended family in their village. Although he completed only eighth grade, Petero has realized the benefits of proper land management, which he sees as a way to achieve greater educational opportunities.
In 2020, he aimed to expand his farming efforts and pledged not to rely on others. He continues to cultivate his family’s ancestral land, where he farms crops including yaqona, taro, cassava, coconuts, and various vegetables.
Recently, he has been selling his yaqona at the market in Labasa, where he highlights the effectiveness of land use in ensuring food security. The yaqona is sold for between $70 and $80 per kilogram, and Petero has reported earnings of approximately $11,000 from his sales.
His farm spans around five kilometers, and he works daily to ensure its sustainability, despite the challenges of maintaining productivity. There are times when he seeks assistance from family to help him manage the work.
Petero believes he is well-positioned as a farmer, working diligently to sustain his livelihood. His efforts have significantly contributed to his family’s well-being, providing financial support and access to essential goods.
In March of this year, to celebrate his 21st birthday, Petero organized an event for his community where he provided two cattle for the locals to gather and celebrate together.
In recent weeks, he has also marketed some of his produce more broadly, aiming to enhance the distribution of his crops and provisions. Petero serves as a role model for local youth, encouraging them to use their time productively in pursuit of valuable activities.
He hopes the government will recognize and support the efforts of young farmers like himself. Petero seeks more assistance in securing agricultural supplies and technology to improve his farming practices and streamline his production processes.
His vision includes building a home for himself on the land he farms, and he dreams of enhancing his family’s living conditions. Additionally, he aims to purchase a farming tractor to facilitate his agricultural work.
Despite facing challenges due to adverse weather conditions, Petero remains optimistic as he aspires to maximize the potential of his ancestral land, which is abundant but requires careful management.
He notes that there are pressing socioeconomic issues that need addressing; for now, there is a strong desire to improve their circumstances through effective land use.
“Let us abandon a life of dependency and instead listen to our elders, while recognizing the divine guidance that supports us at all times.”