The Batiniwai Co-operative bakery, located in Tubou Village on Lakeba Island, is celebrating its second year of operation under the guidance of retired civil servant Kelepi Gucake. Emphasizing the traditional iTaukei value of “solesolevaki,” which means working together to achieve common goals, Gucake believes that the strength of this cooperative lies in collective effort and strong leadership.

In his view, the concept of solesolevaki is vital for fostering teamwork and unity, particularly within communities. He asserts that effective leadership is crucial for maximizing resources and ensuring that initiatives like the Batiniwai Co-operative flourish. This bakery aims to provide an opportunity for older family members, especially those who have retired at 55, to utilize their skills and knowledge in establishing businesses in sectors such as agriculture and tourism, thereby promoting local economic development.

Since its inception, Batiniwai Co-operative has received substantial support, including a $10,000 grant from the iTaukei Trust Fund Board’s Business Ready Support Scheme (BRSS). This funding is being applied towards the purchase of additional equipment, including a second oven and the construction of a separate facility for the bakery and a dairy shop to operate independently from members’ homes.

Looking to the future, Gucake envisions expanding the cooperative to include a coffee shop and an Internet café in response to anticipated community growth, especially with upcoming leadership changes in the Tui Nayau, the paramount chief of Lau. His commitment to integrating good governance values in iTaukei business practices underscores the importance of clarity and accountability in achieving business success.

This initiative reflects broader efforts in Fiji to enhance the representation and ownership of businesses among the iTaukei community. Recently, Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu has highlighted the necessity of fostering entrepreneurship among native Fijians, indicating that currently, they own only about five percent of businesses in the country. Collaborative initiatives, like the Batiniwai Co-operative, are vital in cultivating an environment where iTaukei entrepreneurs can thrive, ultimately benefitting the local economy.

In summary, the Batiniwai Co-operative bakery encapsulates the spirit of solesolevaki, promoting community unity while enhancing local economic prospects. This positive endeavor signifies hope for the future of iTaukei entrepreneurship, reinforcing the importance of collective action and effective leadership in addressing current economic challenges.