Women vendors relocate to VFF Freswota Stadium

January 1, 2025 10:00 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Vourie Molivakoro.

At least 10 women vendors, who used to sell handmade dresses and other items at the Downtown Centre-Point Market, have temporarily set up at the VFF Frewota Stadium after the earthquake.

Many vendors have been left without a place to sell their goods after the earthquake, prompting the stadium management to step in and offer assistance.

The vendors use the stadium’s parking area until when the Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF) resumes operation on January 15.

Stadium Manager, Carlo Nasse, said the management agreed to their request as a gesture of support during the challenging post-disaster period.

“We are not charging any fees to the mothers. This is a temporary arrangement, and they are in need,” he confirmed.

President of the Port Vila Community Handicraft Market Association, Martha Malosu, thanked the VFF management for the swift response to their request.

She highlighted the struggles of the vendors, many of whom are dealing with reduced income as they sell pre-made clothes rather than fulfilling daily custom orders.

“Despite the slow cash flow, we are thankful to have a place to sell and make a little money to start the new year,” Malosu said.

She acknowledged the resilience of the mothers, emphasizing their vital role as household managers who must find ways to generate income despite the challenges.

Malosu also shared her concern for those who have not returned to sell, citing trauma from the earthquake and also the unavailability to reach them. She hopes they would turn up at the stadium after the new year.

“Not all 34 of our mothers are here. Some are still recovering from the devastating events of December 17,” she said, adding her condolences to those who lost loved ones in the disaster.

Malosu called on the government to assist in securing a permanent sales location for the mothers, emphasizing the significant economic contributions of the handicraft and textiles industry.

Some of the vendors’ products remain at their previous selling station near, which was damaged in the quake.

They hope for a permanent relocation soon to resume operations fully and support their families.