The popular business showcase is currently being held at the Adi Senitoa event in Suva this week, featuring various food vendors. Nemani Saronicava, a leader in the food business from Namacu, Koro, Lomaiviti, spoke about the event.
He highlighted that the community had previously faced challenges but is now utilizing land to support local businesses. Saronicava noted that after five years of continuous growth, their food enterprise, dubbed Crave Crazy Fijian Delicacy, is now well-established, with a presence in the Suva market.
He emphasized that vendors, who had previously left, have now returned to strengthen their households and are performing well. Pricing for food ranges from $5 to $20, accommodating various budgets.
Vendors showcase a variety of dishes, including fish, meat, taro, and more, sourced from nearby townships. They offer popular options like Kokoda, pig, lovo, and others, providing a taste of Fijian cuisine for attendees to enjoy.
Arieta Ravula, one of the vendors selected by the Fiji Arts Council, is particularly enthusiastic about the event’s success. At 61, she comes from Namata, Bau, Tailevu, and has been running her business for three years, noting its positive trajectory in recent times alongside her sister.
Despite financial challenges, the vendors are grateful for the opportunity to showcase their handmade products at such events, which allow them to sell items such as clothing, bags, and other crafts at accessible prices ranging from $10 to $60.
Throughout the Adi Senitoa week, the business activities have significantly improved, with vendors selling out their stock and seeing a healthy profit from their efforts. In a good day, they could earn around $1,000, demonstrating the event’s economic impact.
Overall, the resilience and creativity of the vendors, along with community support, continue to foster vibrant local enterprises and a better quality of life for their families.