At just 29 years old, Zabeen Khan is a remarkable example of resilience and ambition in agriculture.

With a 99-year crown lease and 34 acres of land under her stewardship, Mrs. Khan is determined to make her passion for farming, particularly livestock farming, a successful reality.

Her hard work was recently recognized when the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Tomasi Tunabuna, commissioned her newly constructed goat shed at Balata, Tavua earlier this week.

An advocate for innovative farming, she emphasized that farming is not a solitary endeavour.

"It involves a lot of people and groups liaising together on ideas and innovations, as agriculture is scientific in nature," she said.

She highlighted the importance of collaboration and networking to develop farms to new heights, aiming for economic returns not only for individual farmers but also the ripple on effects to their families, community and for the country as a whole.

Her farming journey began shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic, initially focusing on goat farming. Her operations grew in scale last year after receiving assistance through the Commercial Agriculture Development Program Goat Rearing Package. This support has been pivotal in her efforts to expand and improve her farming practices.

In his address during the commissioning ceremony, Hon. Tomasi Tunabuna praised Mrs. Khan for her early decision to pursue farming as a livelihood, noting her perseverance and dedication.

"Your decision to venture into goat farming will surely yield benefits, and I assure you of the government's support through the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways," he said.

He also highlighted the potential of goat farming, emphasizing the various by-products, such as goat milk, cheese, and renowned goat meat, which are highly valued in the market.

Through her hard work and zeal, Mrs. Khan's goat farming venture has enabled her to renovate her home, purchase additional livestock, and invest in farm security and management materials.

Looking to the future, Mrs. Khan plans to diversify her operations by adding value through goat milk and soap production. She also intends to acquire another plot of land to establish a fruit orchard, further expanding her agricultural portfolio.

The hardworking farmer hopes that her story will inspire women and youths across the country to venture into farming.

“Perseverance and a passion for farming can lead to personal success and I encourage women and youths in the villages and settlements to engage in agriculture whether it be crops or livestock. You will never regret it because you are addressing food and income security at the same time,” she smiled.

ENDS