Kadavu fishers seek solar fridge to stop losses, protect livelihoods

Fishers in Tiliva Village, Kadavu, are calling for urgent assistance to install a solar-powered fridge, saying the lack of reliable electricity is costing them income and threatening the sustainability of their fishing businesses.

Fishing is the primary source of livelihood for many households in the remote maritime community, but without proper cold storage, fishers say they are losing a significant portion of their daily catch to spoilage.

The absence of refrigeration has forced fishers to sell quickly at lower prices or risk losing their catch altogether, directly reducing household earnings and limiting their ability to supply fresh, quality fish to buyers.

Local fisherman and small business owner Kitione Qereqeretabua said the problem had persisted since 2023, with little support received to date.

“We have been facing this problem for years now. Without a fridge, we lose fish and income,” Qereqeretabua said.

“This has been going on since 2023, and there has been no real support to address it.”

Community members say a solar-powered fridge would significantly improve fish handling and storage, reduce post-harvest losses and help meet basic food safety standards.

Given the village’s off-grid location and inconsistent power supply, solar energy is seen as the most practical and sustainable solution.

Minister for Fisheries Aliti Bainivalu said the issue had not yet reached her office but assured that assistance would be considered once the matter was formally raised.

She said the ministry would look into supporting solar refrigeration once details were submitted.

Villagers believe the initiative would not only reduce losses but also strengthen sustainable livelihoods, boost household incomes and support the growth of small-scale fisheries in Kadavu and other rural maritime communities.

Residents of Tiliva Village are hopeful their appeal will draw the attention of relevant authorities and development partners as they continue to seek practical solutions to build economic resilience in remote island communities.