Maca Momoivalu launched her business a year ago with a modest investment of $50 for a bag of cassava. Fueled by dreams, she has nurtured her venture into a beacon of hope and a means of support for her family.
Hailing from Raviravi in Lau, she has become a recognizable figure near Wailea Street in Vatuwaqa, where she offers a variety of fresh vegetables and coconut juice. A 2020 UN Women report highlighted the essential role women farmers and vendors like Momoivalu play in ensuring food security and promoting local markets, underscoring their significant contributions to families and communities.
Her roadside stall not only feeds households but also serves as a vital source of income. Momoivalu firmly believes in the truth of these findings, as she utilizes her earnings to sustain her family. At 56 years old, she has faced numerous challenges as a new vendor, yet remains undeterred in her efforts to provide for her six children.
“My business began in 2023 when I purchased a $50 bag of cassava from a middleman. I have not looked back since,” she explained. Initially, profitability was elusive, but as she began to earn, she expanded her offerings to include other produce like cabbage and eggplant, allowing her business to flourish.
Using her profits, Momoivalu constructed a small canteen that sells basic food items such as sugar, milk, and canned goods. The structure of her stall is made from materials like cardboard and iron, sourced from friends and family. “My floor is made from pallets, and my roof consists mostly of old corrugated iron sheets, but this has never diminished my resolve to earn money,” she stated.
Momoivalu also faces challenges related to a local credit culture, known as ‘dinau’. “Sometimes, dinau can reach up to $100, and not all of it gets repaid. However, this has not shaken my faith in myself or my business; I am thankful that I can continue to generate income for my family,” she remarked.
In addition to running her food stall, Momoivalu also engages in sewing, which provides further support for her canteen business. “Three of my children are married, while the other three live with me, one of whom is a hairstylist. My son occasionally assists me by cutting hair for young children, and some of this income contributes to our electricity bill and other necessities.”
Looking ahead, she is eager to expand her operations. “I plan to grow my business and build another room for my son to cut hair.”
Her message to young individuals is one of encouragement: “Have faith. If you have a plan, do everything you can to achieve that goal with determination and hard work. Don’t let anything or anyone deter you from reaching your aspirations.”