Extension Will Protect Vendors, Produce: Bala
Days of braving the elements to sell their produce outside the municipal market building is over for Labasa Market vendors.
A new extension that now caters for 250 market vendors was opened yesterday, by the Minister for Local Government, Urban Development and Housing Parveen Bala.
Mr Bala said the market extension works were done in such a way that it provided more space for vendors and the public.
“These market vendors will now have a roof over their head for the first time,” Mr Bala said.
“When I came here last year, you had requested for an extension of a market.
“Because for the past years these market vendors have been selling their produce braving the sun and the rain.
“The vendors used to sell their produce on the ground and they were not protected from sunshine or rainy conditions.
“The extended market will ensure vendors, as well as their produce, are protected.”
Labasa Municipal Market is the largest in the Northern Division. It houses 600 vendors.
Once complete, all vendors will get equal opportunities to do business in a conducive environment and progress economically.
The new market extension will benefit vendors and farmers from Wainikoro, Wainunu, Dogotuki, Bua and Cakaudrove.
Labasa Market vendors spokesperson Losalini Kaukimoce said vendors, especially women, had been helped through the opening of the new extension.
“In my three years as market vendor, this is the first time we are receiving facilities of great quality and members of the public are happy,” Ms Kaukimoce said.
“We are so thankful to Minister Bala for supporting us. Now the women can sleep in better conditions. Today our prayers have been answered.
“This project demonstrates that Government cares about our wellbeing and welfare.
“I sincerely thank the Government for all it has done to improve living standards of ordinary Fijians”.
Vendors will move to their new stalls by tomorrow.
Edited byPercy Kean
Feedback: nacanieli.tuilevuka@fijisun.com.fj
