Peni Namulo and Sailasa Kaitani have been successfully selling green coconuts along the roadside in Nadi for the past 14 years, turning their venture into a rewarding experience both financially and socially. Mr. Namulo, 37, emphasizes that their role goes beyond mere commerce; they contribute to the health of their community by providing a nutritious and refreshing option.
Many of their customers come seeking the hydrating benefits of green coconut juice, particularly those dealing with non-communicable diseases or recovering from hospital stays. “Most people approach us with empty containers, eager to fill them with coconut juice, often referring to it as their medicine,” Mr. Namulo shared. He has observed that a significant portion of their clientele includes individuals with diabetes or kidney issues, as well as families purchasing the juice for sick loved ones.
Mr. Namulo finds fulfillment in seeing customers return and express gratitude for the positive impact of their product. Initially, he noted a steady flow of customers, with tourists and Indo-Fijians making up the bulk. However, he reports a growing interest from the iTaukei community as well.
The price of green coconuts ranges from $4 to $5, and the couple has established valuable connections with local hotels and resorts, often generating impressive daily earnings. “We typically make over $100 per day, and during peak times, such as special orders for hotels, we can receive requests for as many as 300 coconuts in a single day—one recent day, we fulfilled an order for 1,000 coconuts,” Mr. Namulo explained.
This business not only sustains their livelihood but also enhances the health and well-being of many in the Nadi area, demonstrating the power of local entrepreneurship.
In summary, Namulo and Kaitani’s coconut-selling business serves as a crucial health resource for the community while also yielding significant financial rewards. Their story is a testament to the positive effects of small businesses on public health and local economies, highlighting both the importance of nutritious food choices and the potential for personal and societal benefit through entrepreneurship.
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