Petero Maciu, a 21-year-old farmer from Nawi, Buca Bay, Cakaudrove, has shared his journey of using land to build a better life. Inspired by his father, Sakapo Tui, Petero began farming at a young age, emphasizing the importance of proper land utilization.
Petero lives with his five siblings and parents in the village. He completed his education up to year eight but chose not to pursue further studies after recognizing the potential benefits of agriculture in providing for his family. In 2020, he decided to forgo formal schooling to focus on farming.
He cultivates ancestral land producing crops such as yaqona, taro, cassava, and various vegetables. This year, he plans to sell his yaqona at the Labasa market, where prices range from $70 to $80 per kilo, and he expects to earn over $11,000 from his initial sales.
The farm is roughly five kilometers away from his village, and despite the challenges of maintaining the land, Petero is committed to improving his situation and lifting his family out of poverty. He sometimes travels to nearby areas to obtain necessary supplies for his farm.
Petero believes that effective land use is crucial for achieving a sustainable lifestyle. Despite the demands of farming, he has been able to support his family and generate income, from selling agricultural produce to purchasing essentials for their household.
In March of this year, he even hosted an event in his village, inviting local residents to celebrate as he showcased two bulls he had raised. Recently, he also sold a portion of his produce to improve the management of his farm and effectively connect with the marketplace.
Petero’s story serves as an inspiration for other youth in his community by demonstrating the value of work and resourcefulness instead of squandering time on unproductive pursuits. He calls on the government to support young farmers, enabling them to secure their futures through land development and cultivation.
At present, he is seeking assistance with resources to enhance his agricultural efforts, as well as improvements to access roads to facilitate transportation to markets. His aspirations extend to constructing a house for his family, purchasing land for farming, and investing in a tractor to aid his work.
Despite the difficulties posed by adverse weather conditions and the rigors of farming, Petero remains hopeful. He encourages other young people to maximize their agricultural potential and responsibly utilize the land available to them, promoting sustainability and preserving their heritage.
“Let us move beyond mere survival; we must heed the wisdom of our elders and cherish the blessings of God in all circumstances,” he stated.