Women who want to succeed in agriculture should begin with what they have, manage their time carefully and remain committed to hard work, says Katarina Senabu, the 2025 National Woman Spice Farmer of the Year.
The 54-year-old farmer runs a thriving five-acre integrated farm in Koronivia, combining vegetable farming, hydroponics and tilapia fishponds to produce food and generate income throughout the year.
In addition to her diversified system, Senabu cultivates four acres of ginger and supplies around 30 tonnes to the market annually.
She says that this demonstrates how smart farming practices can improve productivity and profitability.
Originally from Savusavu, Senabu grew up in a farming family and says the values she learned early in life continue to guide her today.
She shares that women must trust themselves and start small, use time wisely and work hard.
Insert: Katarina Senabu 9th Feb 26
Her journey is one of several success stories highlighted at the Women in Primary Industries Symposium 2026, which is being held in Suva from the 9th-11th of March.
The symposium, supported by the World Bank ENABLE Program and its partners, focuses on strengthening the role of women in agriculture and other primary industries.
Meanwhile, Chief Agricultural Economist Sainiana Kirisitiana says empowering women farmers has far-reaching benefits.
She says that when women farmers gain access to information, finance and markets, the impact is powerful, improving food security and reducing poverty.
Senabu’s story stands as a reminder that with determination, knowledge and the right support, more women can build successful farming enterprises and contribute to stronger rural economies.
