The Minister for Local Government, Housing and Community Development Honourable Premila Kumar last week paid a surprise visit to vendors at the newly constructed Cuvu Mini Market in Sigatoka.
Honourable Kumar visited the market to witness first-hand the operations of the new mini market and meet the vendors.
“This new mini market is an indication of the continued support and commitment of the Fijian Government. In acknowledging the hard work put in by vendors, your Government would like to see that their hard work is paid off. Thus, such mini markets have been constructed to provide comfort and protection to vendors, while selling their produce.”
“Furthermore, Government has established a program to promote decentralized mini vegetable and root crops market, with the aim to reduce carbon footprint. And having such facilities in satellite areas will greatly benefit Fijians,” said Honourable Kumar.
The Minister also urged the vendors to look after the mini market and keep it clean.
“I request that you all look after it well and ensure that it is maintained at all times. Treat this market like your second home and keep it clean. If you look after it well, it will also look after you. Not only in the short run, but in the long run too.”
“I’ve been informed that this market becomes a popular place for both vendors and enthusiastic customers from Thursday to Saturday. And with easy access to those travelling from Suva to Nadi and vice versa, this market would be the place to buy from, for most customers,” said Honourable Kumar.
Whilst airing their concerns to the Minister, the vendors requested for the construction of a foot crossing opposite the highway and adjacent to Cuvu back road.
In response, Honourable Kumar assured the vendors that the Sigatoka Town Council would work together with the Fiji Roads Authority to have the foot crossing done.
The Cuvu mini market, which has more than 70 stalls was constructed by the Sigatoka Town Council with the Government’s assistance.