The number of registered cooperatives in Vanua Levu has increased to 148, according to Shaheen Ali, the permanent secretary at the Ministry of Trade.
Speaking at the International Day of Cooperatives at the Civic Centre in Labasa last week, Ali highlighted that these businesses are part of 628 active cooperatives in Fiji.
“Cooperatives play an important role in our development, fostering sustainable development, ensuring economic empowerment, and above all, social inclusion. We have seen many cooperatives grow, establish themselves, and diversify,” Ali stated.
He mentioned that the number of cooperatives expanded during the Covid-19 pandemic as many individuals started their own businesses after losing their jobs.
“There are three million cooperatives around the world and one billion members, which means one in eight people on this earth are cooperative members,” Ali said.
He emphasized that cooperatives are not just strictly business-oriented; they also have significant social objectives.
“They build communities, which is why the government supports them. They create livelihoods and ensure that no one is left behind, particularly disadvantaged women and youth. By working together, they can achieve common and collective goals. We have seen this in our communities and villages,” Ali noted.
Ali concluded by saying that the collective spirit is what drives the cooperative movement to innovate, grow, and thrive, even in the face of challenges.