Serving in the far-flung islands of Moala, Totoya, and Matuku in the Lau group has taught Kitione Kapirieli the heart to persevere.

The 29-year-old from Namuka-i-Lau also in the Lau Group, is the Agriculture Assistant based in Naroi, Moala Island and has been serving the three islands for six years.

“I was posted there in 2018 and as a young man, I had a lot of adjustments to do and ensure that the farmers were assisted and monitored frequently,” he said.

“Whenever I am faced with challenges, I always tell myself that this is what the government has called me to do, to serve the farmers of the three islands and I should do so diligently.”

“I came as a first-timer and I managed, I learned from my work and personal experiences over the years and I excelled, if I can do that so can any staff with the passion and will to serve in the rural and maritime region.”

The young lad is no stranger to settling in new places as he had switched schools a couple of times whilst growing up.

Also a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture graduate from the Fiji College of Agriculture, his first hands-on training was at the Agronomy Section at the Koronivia Research Station as a casual labourer.

Being raised by his mother, Mr. Kapirieli said he learnt a lot and one of the lessons learnt was how to toil the land. This of course ignited his interest for agriculture and he pursued the subject in high school right through to tertiary education.

He explains that the main commodities from the three islands is dried copra, yaqona, dalo, cassava, voivoi, mats, and seafood delicacies which is transported in the ferries that are servicing the islands straight to Suva.

“The beauty of serving in Yasayasa Moala is the friendly people, the fertile land, and the variety of crops that can withstand some of the harshest conditions on the island.”

“Transport mode to the outer islands is the ministry fibre glass boat which I use to cross over to Matuku and Totoya on a monthly basis. I would often sleep over for days on one island when I feel that more farmers need to be visited and their farms monitored,” explained Mr. Kapirieli.

“One thing I learnt is to never risk traveling out to sea during adverse conditions. I will only cross when the weather permits,” he added.

“I work with farmers and I count myself lucky every day. It has been a great honour serving here in Yasayasa Moala and I am proud to be able to share my knowledge and expertise so that they are able to provide three meals a day for their families,” added Mr. Kapirieli.

He adds that as civil servants, the people must come first.

“We work for the people and it’s a huge sacrifice but one that I will cherish forever. In my profession, I help to instil best agricultural practices that will ensure the families on the three islands are well nourished and are able to support their families with much needed finances.”

ENDS

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