At a time when many people remain unemployed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, a businessman in Nadi has found ways to tackle the crisis.

Managing director of Al Hamd Smart Living, Ashfaaq Khan, has begun to offer casual jobs to people in his community.

He said for the past three weeks a total of 22 people have been involved in the construction at his residence, divided in bubbles and took turns to work.

“Because they are without employment for some time they have to be assisted as well,” Mr Khan said.

“They wanted casual work so I created jobs for them like landscaping around the yard, build concrete walls and other chores.

“Interestingly, they told me to get a digger to assist. I told them I could afford it but if we got one, it would take all their money. It is better to work at a small pace.”

Saimoni Seniwi, 51, a sole breadwinner for his family of five has been assisted for the past three weeks.

Mr Seniwi, who is originally from Naboubuco in Naitasiri said he did some odd jobs since the COVID-19 outbreak last year.

“I came to ask Mr Khan to give me something to do to earn money. He gave me some carpentry work,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr Khan who is a joiner by profession continues to employ 40 full-time staff at the Al Hamd Smart Living showroom and his workshop.

Edited by Rayape Karavaki

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