Wheels fail to turn on barrows

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The Kauwai Wheelbarrow boys have also felt the pinch of COVID-19. Picture: SERAFINA SILAITOGA

Wheelbarrow boys in Labasa Town have not been spared from the impact of COVID-19.

Members of the Kauwai Wheelbarrow Youth Club of Labasa said their daily income dropped on average from $80 to $30.

The club’s vice president, Irimaia Bukadakai, said this had been the situation for the past three months.

“Before the coronavirus hit us, we used get $80 a day and, sometimes, even more depending on the movement of people,” he said.

“But when COVID-19 hit Fiji, and people’s movement was restricted, including villagers, we saw our daily income drop and there has been no improvement.

“We used to start work at 6am as passengers arrive from villages, but now we start after 9am because not many people travel that early into town.”

Mr Bukadakai said the situation had affected family livelihoods.

“We have had to make do with whatever little we earn in a day and we keep encouraging one another and reminding our members that brighter days are ahead of us.

“Some of us pay rent so it has been really tough but we are keeping our faith in God knowing he will see us through.”

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