In Namuka, Sigatoka lies an extraordinary tale of resilience and unwavering dedication in the form of three remarkable sisters namely Pungaamma (87), Tulsiama (85), and Damyanti (76) Naicker.

Their lives are a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and an unbreakable bond with the land.

For decades, the sisters have devoted themselves to livestock farming, a labor of love that has seen them through countless seasons and challenges.

"Our father was a locomotive operator for sugarcane. He bought a pair of goats for Pungaamma to start with and she expanded thereafter,” said Damyanti.

Their days are spent caring for diverse animals including 14 cows and over 100 goats and a yard full of dogs.  

While looking after goats, Damyanti is in charge of the cows, and each animal is known by name.

Pungaamma, with her sharp memory, can distinguish each goat by its unique bleat.

This deep connection to their livestock speaks volumes about their commitment and passion for their work.

“Our animals are like family to us. Each one has a name and a personality, and we care for them with all our hearts," said Damyanti.

The Naicker sisters not only manage their farm and animals with dedication but also provide care and shelter for both abandoned and pet dogs at their homes.

“Our love for animals goes beyond our farm—we believe every creature deserves a chance at a better life.”

Living in Namuka, however, is not without its difficulties including infrastructure. The road to their farm often becomes boggy and nearly impassable during the rainy season, isolating them from the outside world.

Yet, the sisters' fighting spirit and love for each other enable them to weather these storms with grace and determination.

Their unwavering dedication to their farm and their animals is an inspiring reminder of the strength that can be found in perseverance, hard work and commitment.

"Living here has its challenges, but our bond and our passion for farming help us overcome anything that comes our way," she said.

The sisters' daily routine is a well-choreographed dance of care and attention, beginning at the crack of dawn and ending only when the last animal is safely tucked in for the night.

They feed and milk the cows, tend to the goats, and ensure that each animal is healthy and content.

Their efforts are rewarded not only by the productivity of their farm but also by the deep sense of fulfillment that comes from nurturing life and contributing to their community.

Social gatherings are a rarity for the sisters of Namuka, as their devotion to their farm and animals takes precedence.

However, they remain deeply appreciative of those who visit them, offer help, and keep them in their thoughts.

"We are grateful for the kindness and support of others," says Damyanti. "It means the world to us, knowing that people care."

Their story is one of resilience, but it is also one of wisdom and sisterhood.

Pungaamma, the eldest, often reflects on the lessons learned over the years, imparting her knowledge to her younger sisters and anyone willing to listen.

In a world that often values youth and speed, the sisters of Namuka remind us that there is profound strength in age and experience.

"Age is just a number," she says with a twinkle in her eye.

"It's the love and dedication we put into our work that keeps us going."

The sisters of Namuka are a living testament to the power of community and the importance of supporting one another.

Their bond is unbreakable, forged through years of shared experiences and mutual respect. They have faced adversity together, celebrated successes, and built a legacy of hard work and devotion.

Their efforts were recognized last year when they scooped the Goat Farmer of the Year award at the 2024 National Agriculture Show Farmer Awards and they are grateful to the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways for their visits and advice in the care of their animals.

As the sun sets over the rolling hills of Namuka, the sisters prepare for another day of tending to their beloved animals and are grateful that they have each other to rely on through the good and bad times.

-ENDS-

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