Selling green coconuts along the roadside in Nadi has proven to be a lucrative venture for Peni Namulo and Sailasa Kaitani. For the last fourteen years, Mr. Namulo, 37, has been more than just a vendor; he views his role as a contributor to the health and well-being of his community.
Mr. Namulo notes that many of their customers are individuals dealing with non-communicable diseases or those seeking refreshing, natural hydration after a hospital stay. He emphasizes that the demand is primarily for coconuts with minimal meat, as most customers prefer the fresh juice. “Customers often arrive with empty bottles, eager to fill them, claiming that coconut juice serves as their medicine,” he shared.
Their customer base predominantly includes people managing diabetes and kidney issues, along with those purchasing the juice for family members recovering from illness. The positive feedback they receive is gratifying, as many customers credit the coconut juice with aiding their recovery.
While reflecting on the start of his business, Mr. Namulo noted the gradual growth in customer visits, revealing that both tourists and Indo-Fijians have traditionally made up a significant portion of their clientele. However, he is pleased to observe an increasing number of iTaukei customers as well.
The pricing for green coconuts ranges between $4 to $5 each, and sellers often secure advantageous orders from local hotels and resorts. Mr. Namulo mentioned that their daily earnings typically exceed $100, especially during peak times when they receive large orders, sometimes reaching as high as 1,000 coconuts in a single day.
This story highlights not just the entrepreneurial spirit of these vendors but also the important role they play in promoting health through natural products. Their dedication to serving the community while running a successful business is a testament to the power of local entrepreneurship.
In summary, Peni Namulo and Sailasa Kaitani’s venture in selling green coconuts serves not just as a source of income but as a valuable service to those seeking health benefits from their products. Their success story is both inspiring and a reminder of how local businesses can contribute positively to their communities.
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