For 55-year-old Epeli Mudunakaci, the journey to the Christmas market is a demanding three-hour trek from the highlands of Nadrau, Nadarivatu. This trip is made worthwhile as he joins a group of vendors from Fiji’s interior, bringing fresh produce to the Lautoka minibus stand during the festive season.
The challenges of transporting crops from the mountains to the city are substantial, with steep logistical costs that can heavily impact farmers’ earnings. Mr. Mudunakaci points out that an average lorry trip fare is $200 from Tavua Town to Lautoka City and rises to $400 for the longer journey from Nadarivatu to Lautoka City. Despite these expenses, he arrives with a rich variety of fresh harvests.
“I have brought dalo, melons, tavioka, cabbage, and tomatoes. I always supply Tavua,” he shares. His competitive prices appeal to holiday shoppers, with dalo priced between $30 to $40 and melons ranging from $5 to $15, depending on size. Recently, he managed to sell about 200 sacks of tavioka, despite fluctuating costs.
Mr. Mudunakaci’s motivation stems from the need to support his family’s education. He juggles farming and livestock management to provide for his three children, one of whom is currently studying at the Fiji National University in Suva. “I do this all for my three children; we are fortunate to have ample vegetation in the interior, which aids me significantly,” he explains.
While he appreciates the natural resources available in Nadarivatu, Mr. Mudunakaci also voices concern about the difficulties faced by farmers in the region. He is advocating for government support to boost agricultural productivity. “If possible, we request that the Government assist us with some incentives for farming, such as tractors,” he urges.
His commitment reflects not just personal resilience but also a broader appeal for sustainable support aimed at empowering farmers in Fiji’s interior. With the right assistance, these hardworking individuals can continue to contribute significantly to the local economy, especially during the crucial holiday season.
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