Petero Maciu, a 21-year-old from Nawi village in Cakaudrove, is encouraging young people to use empty land in their communities to foster sustainable living. Having started farming at a young age, Maciu has successfully cultivated over five acres of clan land, growing yaqona, root crops, and vegetables.
He expressed gratitude towards his father, Sakapo Tui, for motivating him to cultivate their land. “My father always encouraged me to make use of the land to have a better living,” Maciu stated. He believes it is essential for people to return to the practices of their ancestors, who worked the land for sustenance, instead of depending on others for food.
Maciu does not regret leaving school after completing Class Eight. “I don’t want to go back to school because what I get from the land is more than what I would receive from continuing my education,” he remarked. His commitment to farming has proven lucrative, as his first yaqona harvest in 2023 brought in over $11,000.
He sells his produce, including yaqona, cassava, dalo, and bananas at the Labasa Market, with yaqona fetching $70 to $80 per kilogram. Maciu stressed that dedication and hard work are vital for success, sharing that he often walks five kilometers to his farm and even sleeps there to maximize his time.
“Despite the distance, I never gave up. I believe if all Fijians, especially iTaukei, utilize the land, it could alleviate many issues in Fiji, such as poverty,” he said. His earnings have enabled him to support his family, invest in farming equipment, and celebrate his birthday.
“I turned 21 in March, and to surprise my family, I bought two cows and invited the villagers to celebrate my birthday,” he shared. Recently, he also acquired a twin cab to facilitate the transport of his crops to the market.
Looking ahead, Maciu plans to build a house, purchase land in town, and buy a tractor to enhance his farming operations. His advice to young people is clear: “If you have nothing to do, make use of your time and plant the land. You will reap the rewards in due season. We must honor God daily, who is the source of strength in our lives.”