At just 39, Imtiaz Khan has turned farming into a successful business, producing more than 80 bags of fresh produce daily from his 22-acre farm in Kavanagasau, Nadroga.

His harvest supplies municipal markets in Ba, Lautoka and Suva, with crops including cabbage, eggplant, pawpaw, sweet corn, pumpkin and maize.

Mr Khan’s journey into agriculture began about a decade ago after completing his tertiary education. Rather than pursuing other career opportunities, he returned to the land and gradually built a farming enterprise that now supports his family and provides employment opportunities within the community.

The financial returns from farming have allowed him to invest in machinery and equipment, including tractors and an irrigation system.

He says a bag of cabbage earns him around $30, while eggplant brings in approximately $50.

“I make good money from farming,” Mr Khan said.

However, farming has not been without challenges. Drought and prolonged dry weather in Kavanagasau remain major concerns, while increasing fertiliser and fuel costs continue to put pressure on his operations.

With his farm located beside a river, Mr Khan has been able to manage water shortages by pumping water directly to his crops through his irrigation system.

Rising fuel costs have also affected the transportation of produce, which he delivers to markets three times a week.

Despite running a large operation, Mr Khan ensures his family benefits directly from the farm. He is married with three children attending primary school and grows vegetables and other food crops to meet their household needs.

He has also planted rice for the second time, specifically for family consumption.

“I hardly go to the market to buy our vegetables as it is all here on the farm. Everything we need is here at the farm,” he said.

During busy periods, Mr Khan hires young men from nearby Raiwaqa Village to assist with the workload, while managing most of the farming activities himself when labour demands are lower.

His next goal is to expand into overseas markets, with his pawpaw crop expected to be ready for export by February next year. Any produce not sold for export will be supplied to local vendors with whom he has established business relationships.

Mr Khan operates on a 98-year crown lease and hopes to continue building an enterprise that will benefit his family for generations.

He is also encouraging young people in Fiji to consider agriculture as a viable source of income rather than overlooking opportunities in farming.

“Start your own farming instead of moving around doing nothing. By farming, you will earn good income and food security for the family,” he said.

For Mr Khan, farming has provided more than an income. It has enabled him to build a business, support his family, invest in his land and create opportunities for others in his community.