The Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, inaugurated the new Nakasi Market yesterday, a facility valued at $1.98 million that will serve 100 vendors.
Nalumisa emphasized that the Nakasi Market reflects the Coalition Government’s dedication to Fiji’s National Development Plan, which focuses on empowering its citizens through unity. He noted that for years, many vendors had to operate in difficult conditions along the Nasinu and Nausori corridors. The new market provides a clean and safe environment, restoring pride to the vendors’ work and offering them a dignified space to develop their businesses.
He described the market as a symbol of opportunity and empowerment for the vendors, stating that it is not merely a commercial space, but a platform for enhancing individual and community growth. Nalumisa reinforced that the investment is not solely financial, but also a commitment to human potential and the future development of Nakasi, Nausori, and the broader region of Fiji.
The new market facilities include restrooms for vendors and customer parking, addressing the needs of an expanding urban area like Nakasi. Nalumisa highlighted the accomplishment as a result of collaboration among the Nausori Town Council, the Government, and the Fiji Corrections Service, which provided the land for the project.
He assured that the government is committed to establishing essential laws and regulations for municipal markets throughout Fiji. Nalumisa stated that with the introduction of new market regulations, there will be improvements in transparency, accountability, and efficiency in market management. The Nakasi Market plays a crucial role in enhancing food security, generating local government revenue, and promoting community vitality.