Market vendor Luisa Reece has expressed her appreciation for the new Nakasi Market, stating it offers significant improvements for vendors looking to sell their products.
“We are truly thankful that the government has addressed our request to establish a market,” Ms. Reece remarked. She explained that previously, vendors had to endure harsh weather conditions, sitting outside in both rain and sun, which made it difficult for them to sustain their livelihoods.
Now, she is pleased that all vendors can operate under one roof. “In the past, many customers would simply drive by, making it challenging for us to serve them effectively,” she noted. “Inside the new market, we can relax as we await customers.”
Ms. Reece highlighted the convenience of the new market’s location for both vendors and customers. She mentioned, “Customers can easily park their vehicles and stroll around to purchase fruits and vegetables.” She added that, near the main road, time limitations often prevented customers from thoroughly examining the produce.
Previously, the town council would relocate vendors from temporary stalls beside the main road. “The new Nakasi Market offers many enhancements that will aid us,” she stated.
As a resident of Nayavutoka village in Ra, Ms. Reece indicated that the new market is more accessible compared to Rakiraki Town, as it provides direct transportation to Suva with only one bus ride, unlike the two they would take to reach Rakiraki.
“If I cannot sell all my goods, I’ll have other vendors assist in selling them for me,” Ms. Reece explained. She emphasized the safety of storing produce in the new market, noting, “There is no need to constantly transport our products in and out daily.” She sells a variety of items such as lemons, pawpaws, pumpkins, and cassava sourced from her village.
Ms. Reece often works alongside her daughter to sell their produce and is also related to All Blacks rugby union player Sevu Reece, as she is a cousin of his father.