Tevita Nagataleka and Ana Dimala, after dedicating over forty years to their careers in Suva, have returned to their origins in Namuavoivoi Village, Bua. They now embark on an invigorating new chapter on a vast 600-acre farm, immersing themselves in agriculture and finding joy in this hands-on lifestyle. Contrary to the typical expectations for retirement, the couple’s life has become increasingly vibrant and demanding, merging the peacefulness of rural life with the challenges of farming.
Initially venturing into agriculture, the couple celebrated a successful watermelon harvest, producing eight tons of sweet watermelons, which they sold at $2 per kilogram. While financial gain is a benefit, their true measure of success lies in the positive outcomes for their community. The farm has become an economic lifeline for single mothers, youths, and widows, offering employment opportunities and paving a road toward financial independence. They further extend their generosity by selling watermelons at reduced prices to Dreketi vendors, allowing others to earn equitable profits.
The couple is committed to sustainability and community welfare, integrating these principles into their farming practices. They employ crop rotation techniques to maintain soil fertility, ensuring the land remains productive for succeeding generations. After a fruitful watermelon season in 2024, they plan to transition into vegetable farming and are preparing to delve into livestock raising as part of their sustainable land-use strategy.
Ana Dimala shares her wisdom with younger generations, promoting agriculture as a viable path to prosperity, emphasizing that dedication and hard work are essential to achieving success. She encourages the adoption of advanced farming techniques, even in limited spaces, and advocates visiting agricultural stations for guidance and support.
Their story resonates with a larger theme of agricultural resilience and community development in Fiji. Similar to Ana Vetau from Narata Village, who also found fulfillment in farming despite her initial career goals in hospitality, the Nagatalekas’ journey inspires others to uncover the potential within their land. Their philosophy nurtures more than just crops; it fosters a thriving community committed to self-reliance and the rewarding experience of cultivating the land.