A vibrant market for local businesses is currently underway at the Adi Senitoa Festival in Suva this week. Nemani Saronicava, who leads a local food business, shared insights from Namacu in Koro, Lomaiviti.
He expressed gratitude for the support received from the community over the past two years. The business seeks to utilize land effectively to aid its growth. It has been in operation for five years and has gained recognition under the name “Crave Crazy Fijian Delicacy,” with a well-established presence at a major market in Suva.
Saronicava noted that the business faced challenges when competitors left the market, but it has since bounced back to support local families and is performing well. He highlighted that food prices today range from $5 to $20, adapting to the current economic conditions, benefiting both the community and entrepreneurs.
All food sold is sourced locally, with specialties including fish, meat, taro, and traditional dishes that are prepared and transported directly from their region to the festival. The offerings include Kokoda, pork, lovo, and various types of vegetables, inviting attendees to taste and purchase.
Arieta Ravula, representing the Fiji Arts Council, is also part of the festival as a selected vendor. At 61 years old and hailing from Namata in Bau, Tailevu, she has participated in this business for three years and reports a strong performance this year. She is operating alongside a relative from the village.
Ravula emphasized that they manage to sell their crafts without significant financial investments in materials, starting small to grow their business. She mentioned the joy of being selected to showcase her work and the happiness it brings her.
Her products include clothing, handcrafted bags, and pouches, with prices ranging from $10 to $60. With the ongoing festival this week, she is optimistic about furthering her business, noting that she has earned up to $1000 from her sales, stating that without hard work, achieving success is challenging.
The festival’s revenue is reinvested into her community projects, enhancing social services, and continues to foster her business ambitions.