Watermelon farmer travels 128KM to bring fresh harvest to Luganville Market

September 30, 2025 9:45 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Nicholas Mwai.

Berry Remo, a watermelon farmer from Tautu Village in Malekula, recently traveled 128 kilometers to bring 200 watermelons to the Luganville Municipal Market. 

His journey offers an insight into both the dedication of local farmers and the challenges they face in getting their produce to buyers.

Remo’s farm is vast, with more than 10,000 watermelon plants. “We planted a really big place—it’s like, I don’t know, maybe a double soccer field,” he said. The plantation covers several hectares, reflecting the scale of his operation.

This was Remo’s first harvest of the season. “Last week I harvested the first fruits of the watermelons,” he said, with each fruit weighing between 7 and 12 kilograms.

His trip to Santo followed his father’s earlier visit to Port Vila, where he sold 500 watermelons. “I came here via Vanuatu Ferry on the 17th of September. My dad went to Vila the following day. I’ll stay in Santo to sell until all the watermelons in Malekula are finished, then I’ll return,” Remo explained.

Despite the success of his harvest, Remo faces challenges in managing the crop. “My plants usually dry up, especially the new ones. We might need agricultural experts to show us how to prevent it, or maybe use chemicals,” he said.

Market access is another hurdle. “We sell at the main market, but there’s no steady demand, and some buyers don’t pay immediately. If we could get payments directly, it would make things much easier,” Remo added.

Remo’s journey reflects the resilience and commitment of Vanuatu’s farmers, who traverse long distances and navigate market challenges to bring fresh produce to consumers.