Twelve new job opportunities have been created in Korovou Town following the launch of a new mini mart and kava bar, a development viewed as a significant statement of faith in a community grappling with a persistent decline in population. The new business, operated by Commercial Amusement Kava and led by Managing Director Nausheem Ali, comes in the face of numerous challenges and risks associated with investing in the area.
Ali acknowledged the difficulties of establishing a mini mart and kava bar in Korovou Town, stating, “This was a risk we decided to take as investors.” The town, once a vibrant service center for surrounding communities, has experienced reduced economic activity in recent years as many locals have relocated to Suva and Nausori in search of better job prospects. This trend has made it particularly tough for new investors, making Ali’s decision to invest especially commendable.
Ali draws from his experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, having opened his first outlet at Fatties Shop in Laucala Bay amid widespread uncertainty. He noted, “Despite initial doubts regarding customer flow, I chose to move forward, and it ultimately paid off with the opening of a second branch in Nabua.” Such determination has fueled his optimism for the potential of Korovou.
The investment in this project amounts to approximately $100,000, covering stock and setup expenses. While the initial reception has been somewhat modest, Ali retains a hopeful outlook for the business’s future, stating, “As time progresses, we believe it will pick up. We have faith in the people of Korovou.”
In a display of commitment to the local community, Ali prioritized hiring unemployed residents from Korovou and its surroundings, aiming to mitigate the financial strain of commuting to Suva or Nausori for work. He emphasized, “People here feel the hardship of traveling to find jobs. Transportation is costly, which is precisely why we initiated this venture.”
District Officer for Korovou, Eliki Dakuitoga, expressed appreciation for the investment, highlighting the economic and social advantages it will provide for the town. “This is a blessing for Korovou,” Dakuitoga remarked. A communal tanoa serves as a gathering spot for residents, and this new development is expected to help rebuild confidence in Korovou Town while attracting further investments in the area.
Community leaders share the vision that the addition of these twelve new jobs will not only stimulate the local economy but also pave the way for future growth in Korovou Town. With initiatives like this, there is a renewed sense of optimism, suggesting that progress and rejuvenation are on the horizon for this resilient community.