Among the many inspiring stories showcased at the 2025 National Agriculture Show, the remarkable journey of Mudrenicagi Organic Farm captured attention, an enterprise driven by the passion and resilience of the Mills family.
Karen Mills, originally from Canada, and Arthur Mills, from Wainunu in Bua, returned to Fiji in 2015 after decades abroad. The couple’s dream was simple yet bold: to farm organically, without chemicals, and to prove that sustainable farming could thrive in Fiji’s communities.
Their story reflects more than just farming—it embodies the vision of a safer, healthier, and more prosperous Fiji. Through partnerships with the Ministry of Agriculture and support from other organisations, Mudrenicagi Organic Farm continues to grow as a beacon of innovation and sustainability.
“Our journey would not have been possible without the encouragement and support from the Ministry of Agriculture. Their recognition of our work shows the Government’s dedication to building resilient and healthy farming communities,” Mr. Mills said.
She explained that their approach was challenging, as many believed organic farming could not succeed in Fiji, yet they remained committed over the years. With the assistance of the Ministry of Agriculture, their farm has now flourished.
At Nadi, Mr. Mills reflected that the journey has not been without setbacks. Cyclone Winston and Cyclone Yasa devastated parts of their farm, wiping out their first vanilla crop. But resilience has defined the Mills family. Today, their vanilla vines are thriving once again, alongside cocoa, coffee, coconuts, and diverse root crops.
On their 93-acre property, the Mills family has established a mixed farming system. They now manage 25 beehives, producing honey and beeswax products, as well as poultry, supplying eggs and fresh produce to markets in Nabouwalu. Value-added products such as sauces, jams, and candles also showcase the versatility of their farm.
“Our philosophy is never to rely on one crop,” Karen explained.
“We want to model a diversified, high-value farming system that is both sustainable and resilient. That’s what organic farming is about—healthy soil, healthy food, healthy people.”
Mr. Mills encourages Fijians to prepare early and invest in farming.
“Don’t wait until you retire. Start planting high-value crops and make use of government grants allocated to the agriculture sector. By the time you return to the village, your farm will already be producing.”
At the National Agriculture Show, the Mills family had the chance to showcase their honey, value-added bee products, and farm-made preserves. For them, the event was not only about celebrating their success but also about networking with other farmers, businesses, and government agencies.
“It’s opportunities like this that help us share our story, connect with suppliers, and continue building a stronger farming community,” Karen said.
As the Agricultural Show celebrates Fiji’s farming future, the Mills family’s journey is a testament to what vision, persistence, and sustainability can achieve.
From a dream planted in 2015, with the assistance of the Government and the Ministry of Agriculture, Mudrenicagi Organic Farm now stands as one of Fiji’s shining examples of how organic farming can secure livelihoods, restore the land, and build healthier communities for generations to come.