After years of toiling his land in Lakeba, Lau, Jone Colaji’s hard work came into fruition.
The 45-year-old walked away with the 2023 Yam Farmer of the Year award by the Ministry of Agriculture at the National Agriculture Show in Suva on Friday.
He was also the recipient of the 2022 Yaqona Farmer of the Year and Best Yam Farmer of the Year in 2019.
Originally from Yadrana in Lau, he has been farming for the past eight years utilising his 15 acres mataqali land located in the highest peak of Lakeba.
Mr Colaji has since invested into farming kava, dalo, kumala, yams, voivoi and masi.
“I’m so happy to be here with my family who came from Lau to celebrate winning this award tonight (Friday),” Mr Colaji said.
“I urge the young people to venture into farming because there is money in our land, with hard work and patience we can achieve our dreams.”
Chief guest Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad said agriculture was one of the main contributors to Fiji’s gross domestic product contributing 8.2 per cent as of March 2023.
Prof Prasad congratulated the recipients of the awards and thanked all the farmers who showcased their hard work, innovation and expertise over the three days.
“Organising this agricultural show has played a pivotal role in promoting sustainable agriculture, fostering innovation, enhancing economic activities and ensuring food security,” Prof Prasad said.
He added farmers’ efforts and labour intensive works were invaluable, therefore, their interests and well-being must always be kept at the forefront of government strategic policy discussions.
