A MEETING point, a gathering place, a home, and a barbeque – that’s how the revamped Lami Kava outlet on Nukuwatu Street in Lami was described. The new space now known as Vale Kava was officially opened last Friday by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, MSMEs and Communications Manoa Kamikamica.
A first-of-its-kind concept in Fiji, Vale Kava offers customers a choice: enjoy freshly grounded kava in a modern lounge setting or take home waka and lewena to share with loved ones.
Recognising that not everyone is drawn to the traditional taste of kava, Vale Kava introduces Kava Fusion, a creative twist designed for newcomers or those seeking an alternative flavour.
These blends make the experience more accessible, while still respecting the cultural roots of the drink.
Building further on this fusion of tradition and innovation, the outlet also serves green kava – fresh, unprocessed, and deeply connected to the land.
The goal is to offer a hygienic, respectful recreation of the traditional experience, preserving its earthy, natural essence.
This spirit of innovation and respect for tradition, DPM Kamikamica said, reflects how Vale Kava has “connected the dots.” He noted that its launch aligns with Government’s broader economic strategy, one that champions economic diversification, inclusive growth, and structural transformation.
Linking the outlet’s launch to national priorities, Mr Kamikamica referenced his recent remarks to the Fiji Institute of Chartered Accountants, stressing that Fiji must broaden its economic base and move beyond reliance on traditional sectors by unlocking the potential of agriculture, creative industries, value-added manufacturing, tourism, and ICT.
“This is not just economic theory, it is our lived reality,” he said. “As global markets shift, climate and geopolitical risks increase, and consumer preferences evolve, we must act with foresight.”
Turning specifically to kava, DPM Kamikamica emphasised that it remains one of Fiji’s most promising agricultural exports, with growing demand across the Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, the US, and increasingly in niche markets in Europe and Asia.
He said Vale Kava is redefining value chain development by directly linking remote farmers to both local and international markets.
By sourcing waka and lewena from across Fiji, the company is creating stable, long-term market access for farmers, cooperatives, and MSMEs — while also adding value through local processing, premium packaging, and a curated customer experience.
“This is the kind of value chain model we want to see more of,” Mr Kamikamica said.
“One where every actor, from the farmers in Kadavu to the shop assistants in Lami, is part of a shared economic success story.”
In this way, Vale Kava stands not just as a retail space, but as a powerful example of how small businesses can drive inclusive growth, celebrate culture, and anchor Fiji’s economic future in innovation and connection.
Lami Kava managing director Donny Yee, left, with DPM Manoa Kamikamica at the opening of Vale Kava last week.
Picture: MINISTRY OF TRADE
