Lovia Co-Operative Makes The Dream Work

A co-operative in Naitasiri is a shining exam­ple of teamwork makes the dream work.

Lovia Co-operative Limited was yesterday commended for its resilience and success spanning an impressive 50 years.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Small Medium Enterprises and Com­munications Manoa Kamikamica said the co-opera­tive was one of the most successful of its kind out of the 500 that exist in the country.

A co-operative is a business owned by member-owners. They are democratically controlled by their member-owners, and unlike a traditional business each member gets a voice in how the business is run. Services or goods provided by the co-op benefit and serve the member owners.

Such is the success of Lovia Co-operative that with­in those years it diversified its business from a retail shop, a transport business, a bakery and a petrol sta­tion.

The members should be commended through their forward-thinking strategies, leaving aside their per­sonal differences, as is the case with most member-owned business.

Because wherever money is involved, fraudulent activities is bound to exist. But the members have remained steadfast and weathered the challenges of forming businesses as such.

The co-operative has demonstrated the practical ap­plication of co-operative principles, emphasizing the significant impact that collective effort can have on the local economy and community.

One of the key factors contributing to Lovia Co-op­erative’s success is the support it received from the Ministry through its Integrated Human Resource Development Program (IHRDP).

By investing in the community’s bakery venture, the Ministry has actively contributed to Lovia Co-operative’s growth and prosperity.

This kind of collaborative effort between the gov­ernment and cooperatives exemplifies the spirit of togetherness and mutual support that is necessary for fostering economic development.

The government’s commitment to keeping its doors open and providing support further reinforces the belief that the cooperative sector is a driving force for national progress.

Lovia Co-operative Limited’s anniversary is a momentous occasion that not only highlights the achievements of one co-operative but also showcases the potential that lies within the co-operative move­ment in Fiji.

It is a celebration of forward-thinking ability, to­getherness, and dedication to building a resilient and diverse economy that will continue to inspire and uplift communities across the nation.

Story By: Ranoba Baoa

Feedback:  ranobab@fijisun.com.fj