Dinesh Prasad, Mithilesh Kumar and Satish Chand are grateful to Government they were handed over road stalls in Vanua Levu yesterday.

Mr Prasad of Nasarawa, Bua, Mr Kumar of Baskalave Settlement in Dreketi and Mr Chand of Batirilagi were all happy about the assistance, under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Tourism.

The three men individually thought to apply for a road stall as they were facing a lot of challenges in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Father of two, Mithlesh Kumar said he was a market vendor for seven years but during this difficult year he was not able to earn as much as he usually does before the arrival of the pandemic.

“I used to earn more than $100 a week before the pandemic but now only $25 on a good day. So I am thankful to the government for this assistance as it will help us sell our home grown vegetables and crops on the road stall at the same time make whole sales as well,” he said.

Minister for Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport Faiyaz Koya handed over the stall to the successful applicants in the hope they help contribute to the economy.

“Roadside stalls provide our rural community with a physical location from where they are able to operate and earn a living. These stalls are a common sight when travelling along the main highways from Nabouwalu to Labasa. Not only does that put more money in your pockets, but you are better served by a larger offering of Government services.”

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