A NEW municipal market was opened in Cuvu, Sigatoka earlier today, bringing to fruition a long-awaited facility for vendors from the nearby village and settlements.
The market which was constructed at a cost of about $120,000 was among a series of other similar projects across the country to upgrade and provide new facilities for roadside vendors who sell their crops.
Fiji’s Minister for Local Government Parveen Kumar said gone were the days when vendors used to sit on footpaths or roadsides under the rain trees during rain or sun.
“During the Honorable Prime Minister’s (Voreqe Bainimarama) visit to switch on the street lights in Cuvu, some had approached him for a shelter to sell their produce and we promised to provide a market, and that promise has been delivered,” Mr Kumar said.
“I also thank the Council workers who have been involved in the construction. They’ve done a good job.”
He thanked the Commissioner of Police for allowing the market to be constructed on their lease land.
There are about 72 stalls however more stalls will be added to accommodate vendors who weren’t able to get a stall initially.
The new facilities are due to greatly benefit the residents of Cuvu and other surrounding areas who will be able to carry out their marketing nearby.
“A few weeks ago I was in Olosara and I was told that the vendors used to sell their produce and vegetables to vendors in Sigatoka Market on a wholesale base. But now you have a market and can sell at a retail price and earn extra dollars,” Mr Kumar told vendors at the new market.
“This project is also part of efforts to bring services to the people. Cuvu is growing into a small town with major developments, and such facilities will help the Cuvu community at large.”
Mr Kumar noted that after the construction of subdivisions in Cuvu, works would start on the China Town Subdivision.
