The recent provision of a freezer and solar power kit to the Nadavaci Fishermen Retailers Association in Cakaudrove has already started generating income for members of the association.
The provision of the assistance was made possible through the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management’s Self-Help Programme.
The Programme assists rural dwellers in the construction of basic amenities and other small projects. It also encourages communities to initiate their socio economic sustainable development projects on a cost sharing basis with government, and by doing so, aims to instill a sense of community ownership.
For the Nadavaci Fishermen Retailers Association, selling fish is aimed at generating extra income to help support their families financially and help with other plans that they have as an association.
“This is a good business venture as we were faced with issues relating to our solar panel so this had disrupted our business,” association member Mereoni Maria said.
“We sell fish for $8.50 a kilogram and many of our customers are the villagers here including those from nearby villages.”
The Nadavaci Fisherman Retail Project was initiated to empower and encourage fishermen as well as the village community to be more productive.
Nadavaci Village headman Kolodio Raqamate said the project has helped his villagers so far.
Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Inia Seruiratu said there were huge untapped potentials in Vanua Levu and Government would ensure Fijians in these areas had access to its services and development programmes.
