Selling green coconuts along the roadside in Nadi has proven to be a profitable venture for Peni Namulo and Sailasa Kaitani. For the past 14 years, they have not only established a successful business but have also played a vital role in promoting health within their community.

Mr. Namulo, who is 37 years old, shared that their customers often consist of individuals suffering from various non-communicable diseases or those whose family members have recently been discharged from the hospital. He noted that there is a growing demand for green coconuts with minimal meat, as many customers are primarily interested in the juice.

“We frequently see customers come with empty bottles, eager to fill them with our coconut juice,” Mr. Namulo explained. “They often express that it’s their remedy.” He observed a significant number of customers who are diabetics or afflicted with kidney issues, purchasing the juice either for themselves or their sick family members.

The satisfaction of their work shines through when customers return, expressing gratitude for the rejuvenating benefits the coconut juice has provided.

Mr. Namulo also reflected on the evolution of his business, mentioning that when he started, he carefully monitored the influx of customers. Currently, his main clientele includes tourists and Indo-Fijians, with an increasing number of iTaukei customers as well.

The price for green coconuts varies between $4 and $5 each, and vendors like Mr. Namulo and Mr. Kaitani often find lucrative deals with nearby hotels and resorts. “On a good day, we can earn over $100, especially when we receive large orders from local resorts,” he mentioned. Remarkably, they once fulfilled an order of 1000 coconuts in a single day.

This story highlights the intersection of business and health, showcasing how roadside vendors can contribute positively to community well-being through healthy food options. The success of Mr. Namulo and Mr. Kaitani exemplifies the potential of traditional practices in a modern context, creating a lucrative market while promoting healthier lifestyles.

In summary, Peni Namulo and Sailasa Kaitani’s coconut-selling business not only thrives economically but also serves a crucial role in supporting public health, underlining how small enterprises can have a significant impact on community wellness.