Floods, drought strain Fiji’s Salad Bowl

Sigatoka Valley farmers are warning that worsening floods, prolonged dry spells and deteriorating road conditions are disrupting food supply across Fiji.

The market vendors continue pushing professionalism reforms despite mounting challenges.

The Sigatoka Valley, widely regarded as Fiji’s “Salad Bowl”, is one of the country’s key agricultural regions and supplies fresh produce to much of Viti Levu throughout the year.

Sigatoka Market Vendors Association president Deo Chand said farmers were increasingly struggling with climate-related impacts and infrastructure problems that were affecting both production and transportation.

“There are a lot of issues and challenges encountered in the Sigatoka Valley, and we need the Government to assist us,” Mr Chand said.

“We are known as the Salad Bowl of Fiji, and we supply Fiji all year round.”

Mr Chand said recurring floods and droughts were causing significant crop losses and increasing production costs for farmers.

“When there is flooding in the area, it affects farmers because there is a greater need for seedlings and fertilisers. Our farmers are also affected by drought.”

He said the condition of Nabitu Road remained a major concern for vendors and farmers, particularly during periods of heavy rain.

“Nabitu Road is affected by heavy rain, which causes flash flooding, and because of that, our members cannot supply or reach the market in town,” he said.

The association currently has around 164 full-time vendors, with numbers increasing to more than 200 on Saturdays.

Despite the ongoing difficulties, the association recently launched official uniforms aimed at promoting professionalism and strengthening the image of vendors operating at the market.

Nadroga Navosa Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Suresh Naidu said the initiative reflected a positive shift for the market community.

“It is not merely a change in attire; it is a bold statement about the professionalism and unity of our local vendors,” Mr Naidu said.

He said the uniform initiative helped set a benchmark for professionalism in the informal sector while improving the market’s image for customers and visitors.

“These uniforms allow our vendors to stand out, projecting an image of reliability and pride in their work,” he said.

Mr Naidu said professionalism and presentation played an important role in strengthening local business confidence and improving customer experience.

“We commend the leadership of the association for its vision. This move aligns with our broader goals of elevating business standards across the province.

“When our vendors look professional, they feel professional, and that energy translates into better service and a stronger local economy,” he said.