Solar freezers boost income opportunities for Udu women

Women in three remote villages in Macuata are set to expand their income-generating activities following the handover of solar-powered deep freezers by Government.

Women’s groups from Nukudamu, Nabuouono and Vunikodi in the district of Udu received the equipment yesterday under the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management’s Self-Help Programme.

The project, valued at more than $56,000, included the procurement and installation of 6-foot solar deep freezers aimed at supporting small-scale economic activities led by women.

Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Mosese Bulitavu, said the initiative was designed to empower women and strengthen rural livelihoods.

“These projects are more than just the provision of equipment; they are investments in the livelihoods and future of our women and families in these remote communities,” he said.

The women of Udu in Macuata with the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Mosese Bulitavu.

Photo: Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management

Mr Bulitavu said economically empowering women had a ripple effect across entire communities.

“When women are empowered economically, the benefits are felt throughout the entire community. Through these solar freezers, women will now be able to improve food storage, reduce post-harvest losses, generate income, and support their families more sustainably.”

The freezers will allow women to store fish, frozen goods and other perishable items, enabling them to sell produce over a longer period and generate more consistent income.

Vunikodi Women’s Club leader Kesaia Liku said the support came at a critical time.

"We are very thankful to Government for thinking about our women’s club in this remote community through the provision of these freezers,” said Ms Liku.

“This will greatly help us in food storage and will also enable us to earn income through the sale of frozen goods.”

For Nabuouono’s Veilomani Women’s Club, the freezer will significantly reduce waste and improve supply reliability.

“Our main source of income is fishing, and previously we had to spend a lot of money transporting our fish to the nearest markets because we did not have a freezer,” said club leader Paulini Raumala.

She said the new equipment would reduce post-harvest losses and allow villagers to sell fish locally.

The project is also expected to benefit surrounding communities, providing easier access to frozen food without the need for costly travel to Labasa.

The initiative is expected to improve household incomes while creating new opportunities for self-employment in isolated communities.