Apolosi Nawai established the Viti Kabani as a co-operative with the goal of gaining control over agricultural production

Apolosi Nawai established the Viti Kabani as a co-operative with the goal of gaining control over agricultural production and limiting the influence of European planters in Fiji. The co-operative was intended to unify indigenous Fijians, enabling them to have more control over their economic activities. By organizing Fijian farmers to sell their produce collectively, Viti Kabani sought to create a monopoly on agricultural goods, particularly copra, and resist the prevailing European economic dominance. The impact of Viti Kabani was substantial. It disrupted the traditional economic dynamics dominated by European settlers and plantation owners. By encouraging Fijians to divert their agricultural products to the co-operative, Nawai aimed to weaken the economic grip of the Europeans. This was seen as a direct action against the existing colonial structure. The formation of Viti Kabani also played a role in fostering a sense of economic nationalism among Fijians, promoting unity and self-reliance. Statistics from that period highlight the extensive reach of Nawai's initiative. The co-operative grew rapidly, attracting a significant portion of the indigenous population. Within a short span, Viti Kabani managed to secure notable support, which combined with its strategic emphasis on local trade, presented a formidable challenge to European traders and planters. However, the colonial government viewed Viti Kabani with suspicion and opposition, considering it a threat to their economic interests. The government’s reaction included implementing measures to suppress the activities of the co-operative. These efforts eventually led to the dismantling of Viti Kabani, yet the movement it sparked had longstanding implications for the socio-economic landscape of Fiji. #ApolosiNawai #VitiKabani #EconomicNationalism #FijiHistory #CooperativeMovement #ColonialResistance #MoofLife