BY JOY OFASIA
Many farmers like Jason Meleni have found a steady income selling their produce at the Honiara Central Market, helping them support their families through hard work and determination.
In an interview with the SUNDAY ISLES, Jason shared his story as a dedicated melon farmer.
“I decided to go into farming because I had no job,” Jason said. “But then I thought, why not use the ability I have and start farming?”
Jason started planting melons two years ago at Bubumala, on the west side of Guadalcanal Province. Since then, he has been bringing fresh melons to the Honiara market for sale.
“I started planting melons last year, and I’ve seen good income from it,” he said proudly. “It has really helped support my family.”
Farming melons, Jason said, is not easy. But he believes that hard work always pays off. “At the end of each harvest, you enjoy the result of your labor,” he said with a smile.
Through his melon sales, Jason has been able to pay for his children’s school fees — one in university and others in secondary school. “My farm income is the only support my family depends on,” he explained.
Still, there are challenges. “During the rainy season, heavy rains disturb the melons’ growth,” Jason said. “They can crack, lose sweetness, or get fungal diseases.”
Jason also encourages others who are without jobs to try farming. “If you don’t have a job, use the knives and gardening tools you already have at home,” he advised. “You will see good results if you work hard.”
Now, as Jason sells his second harvest of melons at the central market, his story stands as proof that with determination and commitment, success is possible — even from a small farm.
