For many, farming is an afterthought – a field to venture into when options run out.
However, for 64-year-old Maikeli Ramaidama farming has been his career choice since he turned 18.
Growing up in the quiet village of Nagadoa, in the district of Dama in Bua, his steadfast commitment to toiling the land has transformed his life and those around him.
For nearly five decades, farming has been his family’s source of income. It has financed the construction of their homes, funding overseas travel and supported communal obligations.
“I didn’t finish school,” Mr Ramaidama said.
“But I never let that stop me. The land is my teacher, my provider, and my strength.”
He first set foot on a yaqona farm when he was only 18 years old and has never looked back.
From the early days of sun-drying yaqona to using firewood, he experienced firsthand the challenges of traditional processing methods.
However, his journey took a significant turn when the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways introduced the Yaqona Development Program, awarding him $5,000 worth of materials for a solar dryer.
This innovation has allowed him to dry yaqona in just three days, unaffected by rainy spells.
“The solar dryer has been a blessing.
“Before, if it rained, I would lose time and money. Now, no matter the weather, the kava is always ready.”
Because of his dedication to yaqona farming, Mr Ramaidama has constructed two houses, purchased a twin cab and a carrier, and even paid for his son’s private education in New Zealand, at the cost of $40,000 per semester.
“It still amazes me sometimes.
“All of these, my home, my son’s education, they have all come from the land.”
He has also spearheaded village projects like the upgrade of the village church, community hall and kindergarten classroom.
Through this, Mr Ramaidama ensures that future generations will have a strong foundation to build upon.
Despite his success, he knows that farming is a journey filled with challenges including old age, yaqona diseases and occasional market price fluctuations. His perseverance sometimes get tested, however, his unwavering determination keeps him grounded.
“I won’t always be strong enough to go to the farm and dry yaqona, and my children have grown.
“That’s why I’m preparing now, so when that time comes, I’ll still have something to rely on.”
Mr Ramaidama’s message to young people is that farming is not a fallback, it is an opportunity.
“You don’t need a university degree to succeed.
“If you make use of the land, you can achieve great things, and I am proof of that.”
