The sacrifices and dedication of the Ratabacaca family have led to them receiving the National Farmers Award, at the Farmers Awards Night held at Central Cuisine in Suva.
Speaking on behalf of Reverend Ratabacaca, his son Onisivoro Ratabacaca says several family members are helping his father manage their farm, which employs 14 workers.
Ratabacaca says success does not come easily but depends on perseverance and dedication to achieving one’s goals.
He says the farm began in 2012 with the cultivation of dalo and cassava and with the introduction of various agricultural machines for cultivation, the farm has expanded its investment in farming, now focusing on three main products are chilli, guava, and dalo leaves.
Ratabacaca encouraged iTaukei and young people to make use of their land, warning that laziness has contributed to poverty.
