A farmers’ cooperative established more than seven decades ago is diversifying its operations with $14,000 in Government assistance to launch an equipment hire service in Votualevu, Nadi.
Votualevu Credit Cooperative Ltd received the funding through the Cooperative Development Fund to purchase equipment that will be available for hire to members and residents for functions and community activities.
Established in 1954 after local farmers pooled their resources to support one another, the cooperative has remained active across generations and now has 16 members. The new equipment hire service is expected to generate additional income for the cooperative while reducing the need for members and residents to travel to Nadi town to hire equipment.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica commended the cooperative for adapting its operations and identifying new opportunities for growth.
“I truly believe in the cooperative movement and small business movement and their ability to really transform lives in our country and help our people continue to live prosperous lives,” Mr Kamikamica said.
He said the Government support was aligned with the objectives of cooperative development by helping members create additional sources of income, strengthen their livelihoods and keep economic benefits within the cooperative. The initiative demonstrates how established cooperatives can diversify their income streams, strengthen their sustainability and provide services that meet the needs of their communities.
