Women in Kavala, Kadavu, are expressing their frustrations over the prolonged and complicated process of obtaining business licenses, which they believe significantly hampers their ability to earn a livelihood. Local residents point out that the application process can extend beyond a month, often necessitating trips to distant Suva to complete necessary documentation and receive confirmations.
For many families in Kadavu, selling produce and handicrafts at the local port is a vital source of income. Losena Vunivalu, a resident of Kavala, highlights the challenges faced by women who are unable to operate legally without the requisite licenses, resulting in lost earnings and increased uncertainty for their families. “We are just trying to earn an honest living, but the process makes it very hard for us. Sometimes we wait for weeks or have to travel far just to get one licence, and during that time we cannot sell. If the services could come closer to us, it would really help our families,” she remarked.
Vunivalu further noted that the costs associated with travel, accommodation, and the time spent away from home add considerable financial stress for women entrepreneurs trying to sustain their families.
In an effort to address these issues, women in Kavala have organized into groups to seek support and voice their concerns during rural development consultations. They are advocating for decentralized services and accelerated processing of applications, aiming to improve conditions for rural women engaged in business pursuits. This collective action demonstrates the resilience and determination of these women to effect positive change in their community, fostering hope for a more supportive environment for local entrepreneurs.
Leave a comment