Luisa Reece, a market vendor, has expressed her appreciation for the newly established Nakasi Market, highlighting the significant improvements it offers for vendors selling their goods.
“We are really grateful to the government for addressing our request to create this market,” said Ms. Reece.
Previously, vendors faced challenges as they had to operate outdoors in harsh weather conditions. “At Nakasi, vendors used to sit out in the rain and sun; everyone was struggling to survive,” she noted. Now, she is thankful that all vendors can gather under one roof.
She explained that in the past, many customers would quickly drive by, making it difficult for vendors to serve them. “Inside the new market, we just sit and relax while we wait for customers to come,” Ms. Reece added. She believes the market’s location greatly benefits both vendors and customers.
“Customers are able to park their vehicles and walk around to buy vegetables and root crops,” she explained, stating that previously, with the market by the main road, the hurried pace prevented customers from properly examining the products.
Ms. Reece recalled how the town council would often move vendors away from the old temporary shelters next to the main road. “At the new Nakasi market, there will be many improvements to assist us,” she affirmed.
She shared her personal connection to the area, noting that she comes from Nayavutoka village in Ra, which is closer to Korovou Town and Suva compared to Rakiraki Town. “We have to board two buses to reach Rakiraki from Nayavutoka,” she said, adding, “We only take one bus to Suva, which is why we come through this side to sell our produce.”
In case she doesn’t sell all her items, Ms. Reece mentioned that she would leave the remaining produce with other vendors to sell on her behalf. She also highlighted the benefits of the new market for storing produce securely.
“There is no hustle and bustle taking the product up and down in and out every day. I sell lemons, pawpaws, pumpkin, and cassava which we’ve brought from the village,” she stated. Typically, she helps her daughter manage their sales. Interestingly, Ms. Reece is also the aunt of Sevu Reece, who is an All Blacks rugby union winger, as she is a cousin of Sevu’s father.