At 3 a.m., while the majority of Fiji is still asleep, Vani Sulua and her husband embark on their challenging journey to the market. They navigate the cold Wainimala River, carefully lifting sacks of root crops and vegetables above the water to keep them dry. Once at the riverbank, they wait for a carrier to take them into town—a routine that is crucial for their livelihood.
Vani, 31, originally from Nasivikoso Village in Magodro, Ba, now resides in Waibasaga, Wainimala, with her husband and two children. For her, every market day starts early, and the journey is fraught with difficulties. “I left the village at 3 a.m. to come to town and sell in the market,” she explains, highlighting one of the major challenges she faces: crossing the river at such an early hour without a bridge, often deep and risky after rains.
The need for a bridge across the Wainimala River has been a long-standing request from the community. The absence of a safe crossing frequently complicates travel, especially during floods when access is delayed or cut off entirely. This issue affects not only farmers like Vani but also school children and patients needing medical assistance, adding significant strain on rural life.
Once Vani reaches the market, she has a limited window to sell her produce—usually until 9 a.m. when her designated area reverts to being a carpark. After this, she and other farmers must adapt, searching for alternative spots to sell until late afternoon. This challenging market environment prompts many vendors to sell in bulk to prevent unsold goods from going to waste.
“We generally try to sell off our produce wholesale to maximize our earnings and avoid spoilage,” Vani states, drawing from her years of experience. Despite the hardships, her determination remains high as she aims to support her family, providing for her children’s education and contributing to community needs.
The resilience of rural vendors like Vani, facing transportation and weather challenges, mirrors the experiences of others in Fiji. Ruci Sevodi, a young vendor from Matamaivere, and Pushpa Wati from Makoi Market share similar journeys of hardship and dedication to family. Ruci walks two hours to reach the Suva Municipal Market, selling home-cooked goods, while Pushpa has spent over four decades at her stall, dealing with rising produce costs while supporting her family.
These narratives showcase the strength and determination of those who brave the elements in pursuit of a better life for their families, emphasizing the value of community and hard work. While the circumstances may be difficult, the hope and dedication demonstrated by Vani and her fellow vendors paint a picture of resilience in the face of adversity, with their efforts not only sustaining their families but also fostering stronger communities in Fiji.
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