Luisa Reece, a market vendor, expressed her appreciation for the new Nakasi Market, noting it significantly enhances the selling conditions for vendors. “We are truly thankful to the government for listening to our request to establish a market,” she stated.
Previously, vendors at Nakasi faced challenges, as they often worked outdoors exposed to inclement weather, an experience Ms. Reece described as tough for survival. She highlighted the advantage of now being able to operate under one roof, which allows vendors to relax while waiting for customers.
The new market’s location is favorable for both vendors and shoppers, as it offers convenient parking, enabling customers to leisurely browse and purchase fruits and vegetables. In contrast, at the older location along the main road, there was a rushed atmosphere, making it difficult for customers to inspect produce thoroughly.
Ms. Reece recounted that town council officials previously removed vendors from temporary structures along the main road. However, she noted that the new Nakasi Market promises numerous enhancements to assist them.
Hailing from Nayavutoka village in Ra, she mentioned that accessing Rakiraki Town required two bus rides, while a single bus trip sufficed to reach Suva, prompting her to opt for the new market to sell her goods. She also indicated that unfinished sales could be entrusted to other vendors, ensuring no produce goes unsold.
The new facility allows them to store their products securely, eliminating the daily hassle of transporting items in and out. Ms. Reece typically sells produce such as lemons, pawpaws, pumpkin, and cassava sourced from her village, often assisting her daughter in the process. She is also related to All Blacks rugby player Sevu Reece, being a cousin to his father.