Rabi Island profits from oil project

[Stacey King]

Salaseini Vosamana Monday, September 12, 2011

THE production of virgin coconut oil on Rabi Island has become one of the major income generating projects for villagers.

And so far the Banaban Women's Organisation has earned more than $20,000 from the sale of oil to locals and tourists.

Organisation president Terikano Takesau said they produced 50 litres in a week with a cost of $20 a litre.

"We can earn as much as $1000 in a week and our business is operating well," Ms Takesau said.

"Most families are dependent on this project because it has sent their children to school and has also put food on their tables.

"We are receiving orders from all over Fiji and we are really grateful we have marketed our very own products," she said.

"This is one of the best oils in the world and we will continue to indulge in this project because it generates a lot of income."

Rabi Council of Leaders executive director Marlie Rota said they were supportive of the project because it had supplied the islanders with good income.

"This is another form of employment for the villagers and we will continue to support it because it is improving the standard of living in the villages," she said.