NAMAKA market kava seller Gopi Raman was forced to close down his stall after sales plunged in the wake of COVID-19 containment measures enforced by authorities.
“I can’t sell mixed kava, which contributes a substantial amount to my business, plus the sale of kava roots was really slow, so it was better for me to close it down for now,” the 63-year-old said.
The Votualevu, Nadi, resident said for the past 19 days he had not been able to earn anything and his family would suffer for it.
“I am the sole breadwinner for my family which includes my 98-year-old father, my wife and a son, and finding any kind of work is next to impossible these days.”
Mr Raman said he applied for the $90 government assistance because his family was in a desperate situation.
“With this money, I will be able to stock up food supplies for my family.”
