French Ambassador to Fiji Jean-Francois Fitou says Bastille Day this year will be used to improve the situation of Fijian families hit by COVID-19.
He said the French Embassy would host a market day event this Saturday to assist vendors who were trying to make ends meet during difficult times.
Bastille Day, held on July 14 in France, celebrates the storming of the Bastille—a military fortress and prison— in 1789, in a violent uprising that helped usher in the French Revolution.
“I think it would not be right to celebrate this year because we have had many (COVID-19) deaths, however, in Fiji, we are blessed since we have had no deaths but still many people have lost their jobs and their main sources of income,” Mr Fitou said.
He said this was one way to lend a helping hand to vendors who needed money to support their families.
He said the event would feature between 80 and 100 vendors from the ROC Market and the Women Entrepreneurs Business Council (WEBC) and there would be no stall fees.
ROC Market event coordinator Ellana Kalounisiga said it was important for business communities to relook at how they could directly assist those at the grassroots level.
WEBC chairwoman Eseta Nadakuitavuki said the event would give women an opportunity to network while selling their products.
Mr Fitou said all COVID-19 regulations would be adhered to on the day and all vendors and the public would be able to enjoy the event in a safe manner.
“We encourage people to come and help in whatever little way they can.”
The Bastille Day event will be held at Thurston Gardens, Suva, from 10am to 3pm.
