Peni Namulo and Sailasa Kaitani have found success as roadside vendors, selling green coconuts in Nadi. For the past 14 years, they have not only built a thriving business but also contributed to the health of their community by offering a popular and nutritious product: coconut juice.
Namulo, 37, notes that many of their customers are individuals dealing with non-communicable diseases or those who have recently been released from the hospital. He explains that the current trend favors coconuts with minimal meat, as most customers come with their own containers to fill with juice, which they consider beneficial to their health.
The vendors have observed a significant portion of their clientele includes diabetics and individuals with kidney issues, who often buy coconut juice for themselves or sick family members. It brings them joy to witness the gratitude of their customers, some of whom credit their recovery to the coconut juice.
Initially, Namulo recounts the challenges of attracting a steady stream of customers. However, he now sees a diverse clientele, with tourists, Indo-Fijians, and an increasing number of iTaukei individuals frequenting their stand. The price of green coconuts varies between $4 to $5 each, and they often receive substantial bulk orders from nearby hotels and resorts. Namulo mentions that on busy days, they can sell over 1,000 coconuts in a single day.
This story highlights the intersection of health, entrepreneurship, and community support, showing that local vendors can play a critical role in promoting well-being while sustaining their livelihoods. The ability to cater to health-conscious consumers also signifies a valuable market niche, demonstrating that small businesses can thrive by meeting the needs of their community.
In conclusion, the work of Namulo and Kaitani illustrates how local enterprise can contribute positively to public health while creating economic opportunities. Their ongoing commitment to serving their customers reflects a hopeful trend where community well-being and business success go hand in hand.
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