Business for market vendors at Vunisea, Kadavu is starting to pick up following Tropical Cyclones Yasa and Ana last month.

Supported by UN Women, the market now has 40 vendors from around the island selling fresh produce and generating enough income to get through this difficult period.

Vendor Mosese Tuvoci says after the two cyclones, they had to buy some of their produce from Suva.

“We are trying to bounce back after TC Yasa and Ana. Even though we may lack some root crops or produce and may need to get it from other outer islands – we are adjusting to it. We are going out fishing and selling seafood as well which is helping us get through the day.”

Tuvoci says even though business is slow at times, they are fortunate to be able to supply produce to Suva again.

“We have people here who depend on certain produce at the market. We as vendors try to support and encourage each other so business can flourish later. We know some fruits and vegetables are not available on the island but we’re adjusting.”

The vendors usually work with small boat owners who transport produce to nearby islands.