In 1976, an article in The Fiji Times featured Sailosi Raisele, a retiree who had embraced farming on his native leasehold land at Naceva, Beqa, after retiring as an adviser four years earlier. At 66 years old, he exemplified a disciplined approach to agriculture, which contributed to his good health.
Mr. Raisele addressed the issue of yaqona overindulgence among the youth, noting its negative impact on productivity and well-being. He cultivated a diverse array of crops on his 75-acre farm, including 71 acres of coconuts, 2,500 yaqona plants, and 20,000 tomato plants, among others. While yaqona thrived on his land, he faced challenges in large-scale production due to the scarcity of planting materials, which were supplied to him by an agricultural officer.
His primary income came from tomatoes, with sales reaching over $1,500 in a month from several trips to Suva. He detailed his sales process, where he faced the harsh realities of negotiating prices with middlemen who took advantage of the perishable nature of his produce, resulting in lower-than-expected returns.
Despite the struggles tied to sales and the high operational costs of farming, Mr. Raisele employed casual workers at a modest wage to help with harvesting and hired transportation to deliver his goods to the market. His experience underscores the broader challenges faced by farmers, particularly in terms of transportation and market dynamics.
Similar articles have highlighted a resurgence in agricultural activities across Fiji, showcasing the optimism within farming communities. Farmers like Anare Saruicava and Simione Caginivalu have reported profitable outcomes from crops such as yaqona and dalo, contributing to improved living standards in their regions. They also noted the significant role local agriculture plays in the economy, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and collaboration among farmers to enhance productivity.
The stories of these farmers reflect a hopeful trend towards revitalizing traditional agricultural practices, with an emphasis on community support and engagement. As Fiji’s agricultural sector continues to navigate challenges, there exists a strong potential for growth, prosperity, and a return to the roots of local farming practices, encouraging younger generations to embrace this vital industry and fostering sustainable development within their communities.