Banaban Women raise funds for village projects

[Stacey King]

Fiji Tiimes online Salaseini Vosamana     Sunday, July 03, 2011

The Banaban Women's Organisation and its youth group are selling coconut products at the Northern Agriculture Show in Labasa to fundraise for development plans in the village.

The groups from Rabi Island sold coconut products like virgin coconut oil, body lotions, fans and hats.

President Terikano Tekisau said proceeds from the sale would be directed to education, housing and stationery for villagers and students.

"Our island is deprived of a communication network so we are fundraising to at least help the unfortunate ones in our society," Ms Tekisau said.

"With the funds collected some unlucky students will be able to go to school and other pending projects like building school canteens can be completed," she said.

"This initiative also finances our organisation and we are so grateful to be a part of this show."

Ms Tekisau said the show was meaningful as they were able to explore the potential of agricultural sector on the island

"We are also here to promote agriculture because we have used a tree (coconut) to create our products."

"This is a tree of life because it is useful and it also generates income for our families," she said.