The early hours in Sawanikula are filled with the sounds of hard work as women gather for their rigorous farming routines. Midnight marks the beginning of a long journey as these women board an already full carrier, laden with bundles of dalo and yaqona, destined for the bustling Suva market. For many farming families, these market trips are essential for their livelihoods.
Mariana Rerekula, 42, has been a farmer in Sawanikula Village for over two decades, embarking on her first journey to Suva just this year. Despite being a new venture, the struggles remain constant. “Sometimes we don’t even sleep because we have to wait for a ride to town,” she explains, detailing the discomforts of cramped conditions and the competition for space once they arrive at the market.
Mariana and her family rely heavily on their farm, where crops like yaqona, which takes five to six years to mature, and dalo, which takes a year, are diligently cultivated. The transportation of these crops showcases the labor involved even before reaching the market: horses help carry produce to the riverside, but when they are not available, the burden falls entirely on the farmers themselves.
Weather conditions can complicate their efforts significantly. Heavy rains can prevent farmers from crossing the river to access their transport, as waiting for the waters to recede is often the only option. Even upon arrival at the market, they face less-than-ideal conditions. “Sometimes it’s raining, and where we sit to sell is very dirty, but we still have to pay for the space,” Mariana notes.
The struggle doesn’t stop there; unsold produce can weigh down their finances, forcing vendors to stay overnight in the market. “Sometimes we have no choice but to stay back and sleep here when there’s a lot of unsold produce,” Mariana explains, highlighting the unpredictable nature of their incomes.
Despite these challenges, she remains hopeful. “Good days come, and they matter,” she says, pointing to the satisfaction of being able to meet her family and community obligations, reinforcing the crucial role farmers play in the village ecosystem.
Similar experiences echo in the stories of other resilient vendors across Fiji. For example, Vani Sulua, who begins her day at 3 a.m. to sell produce, also emphasizes the need for safe crossings like bridges to support their challenging journeys. In Suva, vendors like Anaise Gucake and Sereima Sabeta fight against harsh weather conditions to sell mangoes while managing the high costs of transportation and limited shopping foot traffic.
These narratives collectively highlight the strength and determination of those who brave the elements for their families, fostering community welfare through their efforts. The resilience of these women reflects a broader dedication seen throughout Fiji, proving that despite hardships, the spirit of perseverance can lead to success, inspiring hope in their daily challenges.
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