Petero Maciu, a 21-year-old from Nawi village in Cakaudrove, is encouraging young people to make use of vacant land in their communities to achieve sustainable living. Having entered the world of farming at a young age, Mr. Maciu is enjoying the benefits of his labor, cultivating yaqona, root crops, and vegetables across more than five acres of clan land.
He credits his father, Sakapo Tui, for motivating him to maximize the potential of their land. “My father always encouraged me to make use of the land to have a better living,” Mr. Maciu said. He believes it is essential to return to the practices of his ancestors, who utilized the land for sustenance instead of relying on external sources for food.
Mr. Maciu does not regret leaving school after completing Class Eight. He expressed, “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.” His commitment to farming has proven fruitful, as his first yaqona harvest in 2023 earned him over $11,000. He markets his produce, which includes yaqona, cassava, dalo, and bananas, at the Labasa Market, where he sells yaqona for $70 to $80 per kilogram.
Emphasizing the importance of dedication and effort, Mr. Maciu shared that he often walks five kilometers to his farm and sometimes sleeps there to maximize his work time. “Despite the distance, I never gave up. I believe if all Fijians, especially iTaukei, make use of the land, it could solve many problems in Fiji, such as poverty,” he asserted.
His earnings have allowed him to support his family, purchase farming equipment, and celebrate milestones like his 21st birthday in March, during which he bought two cows for a community celebration. Additionally, he recently acquired a twin cab to facilitate the transportation of his crops to market.
Looking ahead, Mr. Maciu plans to construct his own home, invest in land in town, and acquire a tractor to aid in his farming efforts. His message to young people is simple: “If you have nothing to do, make use of your time and plant the land. You will reap the rewards in due season. We have to honor God daily, who is the source of strength in our life.”