In the flood-prone lands of Noco, Rewa, 33-year-old farmer Joseva Tuisolo is proving that persistence and adaptability can turn agricultural setbacks into long-term success.

After multiple failed attempts growing taro, melons, and ginger – crops that struggled in the area’s saline and poorly drained soils; Tuisolo shifted his approach. Instead of forcing the land to suit his plans, he began working with the land’s natural tendencies.

That shift led to a breakthrough.

“Every time something failed, I asked myself- what now? I stayed because this land is home,” Tuisolo said.

His change in strategy paid off. Green Pearl guava, dragon fruit, and duruka began to thrive, resisting the soil and climate challenges that had undermined earlier efforts. His produce now sells out quickly in Suva markets.

“The land finally spoke back,” he said.

Now, Tuisolo’s farm produces guava weekly, his dragon fruit is in high demand, and his duruka yields multiple harvests a year. But more than income, he sees purpose: inspiring other farmers in Rewa to adapt and persevere.

“To the farmers of Rewa – this land can still provide. The key is choosing crops that can withstand the soil’s rhythm. Work with it, not against it,” he said.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways has acknowledged the region’s challenges and is supporting solutions such as drainage works and introducing salt-tolerant crops.

Tuisolo’s story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the potential for sustainable farming even in the face of environmental hardship.