Handicraft vendors to stay longer at Freswota Stadium

January 19, 2025 11:24 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Vourie Molivakoro.

Port Vila’s handicraft vendors, who temporarily relocated to the Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF) Freswota Stadium following the earthquake, will continue to stay at the stadium for a longer period.

VFF has confirmed that it will extend its support, allowing them to sell their products at the venue for at least another year until a proper settlement space is arranged.

VFF President, Lambert Maltock, along with his team, met with the 34 female vendors currently using the parking area at the stadium.

Following discussions, the agreement was confirmed to provide them with continued space for their business operations.

VFF Competitions Department also endorsed the arrangement, emphasizing that with no official matches scheduled yet, the stadium can serve as a temporary marketplace. The department described the initiative as a valuable and supportive measure for the mothers during this challenging period.

Initially, the VFF management allowed the mothers to sell at the stadium free of charge until January 27. However, they have now agreed on a special reduced fee—half the price of their usual rent at Centrepoint, their previous selling location that was damaged in the earthquake. While an exact figure has not yet been confirmed, the VFF assured that the new fee will be reasonable and affordable for the vendors.

Martha Malosu, President of the Port Vila Community Handicraft Association, expressed gratitude for the VFF’s decision. She highlighted that being able to continue their sales at the stadium ensures a steady income for the mothers, unlike staying at home where they would not generate any revenue.

“We are thankful for this wonderful gesture from the VFF. It gives us hope as we wait for clarity on whether our usual selling location will be repaired or if we need to find an alternative place,” Malosu said.

Since moving to the stadium, the vendors have expanded their activities. Initially, they only sold pre-made dresses, but they are now sewing garments on-site. In addition to dresses, they offer a variety of handicrafts such as hats, fans, necklaces, and bags.

The vendors acknowledge that the stadium is primarily a football facility, and they are prepared to adjust whenever tournaments or matches take place.