At 3 a.m., while much of Fiji remains enveloped in darkness, Vani Sulua and her husband begin their daily trek to the market, a vital component of their livelihood. Carefully navigating their way across the chilly Wainimala River, they hold their sacks of root crops and vegetables above the water to ensure they stay dry. This early morning river crossing is the only means they have to transport their goods to town, representing both their source of income and the challenges they face each day.
Originally from Nasivikoso Village in Magodro, Ba, Vani currently lives in Waibasaga, Wainimala, along with her husband and two children. Each market day starts long before the sun rises. “I left the village at 3 a.m. to come to town to sell in the market,” she shares. The river crossing can be particularly treacherous, especially after rainfall, turning the waters deep and hazardous. The absence of a bridge forces the couple to contend with this danger regularly.
Once they arrive at the market, Vani and her fellow farmers must work quickly; their designated selling area transitions to a car park by 9 a.m. To avoid the risk of their unsold produce spoiling, many vendors, including Vani, prioritize bulk sales. “I’ve been married for 10 years and living in Waibasaga, and I’ve seen the difficulties farmers have in crossing the river just to get a ride into town,” she comments. This highlights the urgent plea for improved infrastructure along the Wainimala River.
As Vani sets up her stall, her dedication shines through; she offers dalo, cassava, and various vegetables, often enduring unpredictable weather and long waits for buyers. Occasionally, a lack of sales requires her to stay overnight at the market, depriving her children of their mother’s presence. Her determination is fueled by a powerful motivation: “We’re here every day to support our families, to put our children through school, and to contribute to village and church fundraising needs.”
Similar tales of resilience emerge across Fiji, like that of Ruci Sevodi from Matamaivere Village. Ruci, who sells home-cooked goods, embodies the same spirit of perseverance in the face of adversity. Vani’s journey highlights the critical infrastructure challenges faced by many, while Ruci’s experience reveals the difficult choices young people must make between education and supporting their families. These narratives illustrate the broader obstacles confronting rural communities where market access is essential for sustaining livelihoods.
The unwavering commitment demonstrated by Vani and countless other farmers shows their determination to overcome daily hurdles for the benefit of their families and communities. As they brave these challenges, their hard work serves as a testament to hope, suggesting that with perseverance, even the toughest circumstances can give way to brighter futures. Addressing transportation and access issues could significantly enhance rural livelihoods and improve food security across Fiji, creating a more promising environment for all.