FOR 70 years, the Votualevu Credit Cooperative Ltd has stood as a pillar of resilience in Fiji’s Western community, weathering decades of economic change.
The historic milestone reached a new chapter when Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Industries, Commerce, Business Development and Public Enterprises Manoa Kamikamica handed over a vital Cooperative Development Fund grant last Wednesday
Mr Kamikamica praised them as one of the country’s oldest active cooperatives.
“It is wonderful, certainly from the ministry perspective, after so long, we are still able to find a way to come and assist in some of your dreams and aspirations,” he said.
Established in 1954 by local farmers seeking mutual support when commercial bank loans were out of reach, the cooperative historically provided vital financial assistance of up to $4000 for agricultural activities.
Today, current members are steering the historic institution toward modern horizons.
Recognising that the growing local population frequently had to travel to Nadi Town for event rentals, the cooperative decided to diversify its business.
The newly approved $14,000 government grant supplemented by the cooperative to reach a total value of up to $16,000 has funded essential event equipment, including five folding tables, 250 folding chairs, and two large cooking pots.
Secretary Rakesh Chandra expressed deep gratitude for the partnership.
“We are very grateful to your Government and your ministry for giving us the opportunity to apply for assistance through CDF grant. We are especially thankful for the approval of $14,000, which has enabled our cooperative to purchase the necessary equipment,” he said.
Emphasising that small businesses and cooperatives hold the unique power to transform citizens’ lives, Mr Kamikamica hinted at a larger vision for grassroots funding.
“Be assured that the CDF is just a new fund, I am hoping that in years to come it may grow to ten million or so, so that we can truly help people in our country.”
