Lewacagi, who is originally from Naduri in Nadroga and has maternal ties to Vagadra, says she has been running her market business for almost 10 years to support herself and her family.She says she buys produce from farmers and resells it at the Nadi Market, but business has been moving slowly because the dry weather has affected the amount of produce farmers can supply.
Lewacagi says there are days when she manages to make some money, while on other days she returns home without selling anything.
She says people are also preparing for Christmas, and she hopes business will improve as families begin shopping for the festive season.
She says her husband has passed away, and because of her age, she is no longer able to go farming, leaving her dependent on her market business to earn a living.
The mother of five, who has three sons and two daughters who are all married, says the money she earns helps her family buy food and other household necessities.
Lewacagi says she travels from Vagadra to the Nadi Market every day, spending $10 on return transport, which adds to her daily expenses.
She says life in the village is not easy, particularly because of poor connectivity, which makes communication difficult.
Despite the challenges, Lewacagi says she continues to work hard to support her family.
She says being a widow has not been easy, but her faith in God and concern for her family's wellbeing continue to motivate her to earn a living.
