Ovalau and Moturiki market vendors in Fiji’s Lomaiviti Province now have a safe and inclusive space to sell their produce with the official opening of the newly constructed Levuka Market on Friday, 29th November. The market, located in Levuka, Fiji’s first capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was inaugurated by the Honourable Maciu Nalumisa Katamotu, Minister for Housing and Local Government, in partnership with UN Women Fiji Multi-Country Office (MCO). This marks a significant step toward empowering local vendors and supporting sustainable livelihoods in the region.
The Honourable Minister highlighted the importance of the Levuka Market as a cornerstone of the local economy, stating, “Levuka Market has long been a lifeline for families, serving as the primary source of income for many. With this upgraded structure, our farmers, artisans, and vendors will have an improved space to showcase their produce and wares, directly boosting local businesses and the agricultural sector. Moreover, this new market is designed to attract tourists, a key element in our economic strategy to promote Levuka as a heritage destination. With an influx of visitors expected, this facility enhances Levuka’s appeal as a must-visit destination, creating avenues for sustainable economic development and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship.”
Also present at the opening was Mr. David Fournier, Head of Cooperation for the Pacific Mission of the Canadian High Commission, who delivered welcoming remarks. Market vendors also attended the event, coming together to celebrate this significant milestone.
The Levuka Market now includes 132 stalls, comprising 56 permanent vendor stalls and 76 casual vendor stalls, along with modern amenities designed to cater to the needs of vendors and customers alike.
The facility includes a rural women’s accommodation centre with a disabled-friendly lift, providing safe, affordable lodging for vendors travelling from remote areas. The upgrades are anticipated to boost local agriculture and trade by offering vendors a safe, weather-protected space to display and store their produce. Additionally, the enhanced market infrastructure is likely to attract more visitors, promoting Levuka as a heritage destination and fostering sustainable tourism.
The Levuka Market was funded by the Government of Canada through UN Women’s Markets for Change (M4C) project, in collaboration with the Government of Fiji, with a combined investment of over FJD 3.1 million. Seruwaia Beci, President of the Ovalau Market Vendor Association, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We used to sell under tents by the roadside, exposed to the weather. Now, with the new market facilities, we can work safely, and our crops and produce can be stored and displayed properly without worry. The accommodation centre has made a big difference for those of us travelling from far away, providing a safe and affordable place to rest.”
UN Women Deputy Representative Hulda Ouma emphasised the market’s significance, stating, “The Levuka Market represents a transformative space where women vendors can thrive, their efforts contributing to the social and economic fabric of their communities. By empowering women as economic actors, we strengthen families, businesses, and entire communities.”
Soft furnishings for the market were also provided with support from the National Committee of UN Women Australia for the rural women’s accommodation and resource centre.
In addition to the new market, the Honourable Minister handed over a 9-ton truck to the Levuka Town Council to support waste management, infrastructure maintenance, and essential service delivery. He remarked, “This truck is an essential tool for improving municipal services and maintaining a cleaner, healthier Levuka. Together with the new market, it represents our commitment to sustainable and inclusive development for the people of Ovalau.” With the opening of this state-of-the-art facility, Levuka takes a significant step forward in improving the livelihoods of communities in Ovalau and Moturiki, while advancing women’s economic empowerment. This milestone highlights the importance of strong partnerships with governments and development partners to create sustainable, inclusive opportunities for all.
Originally published by UN Women Asia and the Pacific
