Granny plants for her family

Submitted by Narayan24 on Mon, 22/06/2009 - 8:08pm

During these difficult times when the country is trying to forge ahead after the early floods of this year, one woman has decided to make a change for the better.

In the tranquil islands of Kadavu which is situated on the Southern part of Fiji Islands, a 61-year-old granny is making sure that she at least puts a fresh bowl of fruits or vegetables on her family’s table every day.

And this has only been possible as she has been planting crops and fruit trees in her very own backyard garden.

Litia Vitukawalu is originally from Rakiraki Village in the tikina of Yale in Kadavu but after tying the knot years ago, she had to move to her husband’s village in Daku, Naceva also in Kadavu.

With seven children and about 22 grandchildren, Litia still hasn’t lost her touch in making sure that her family is well cared for.

After moving into her new home, Litia would travel often with her husband, Ratu Aca Vitukawalu to their farm which is situated on the hills of the village overlooking the ocean.

The couple would plant yaqona, rootcrops and even a few fruit trees like lemon, mangoes and pawpaw.

“Those days, I would appreciate the long walks and steep climbs but as age is fast catching up to me, I have had to resort to planting vegetables and fruits in my own backyard,