A new Economic Micro-Hub was officially launched this week in Emua Village, North Efate, in a move aimed at bringing services and business opportunities closer to surrounding communities.

The hub is part of a broader initiative designed to support small businesses, create local jobs, and strengthen community-based economic growth.

One of the key ideas behind the project is to reduce the need for people to spend money travelling to distant destinations to access markets and services.

Prime Minister Jotham Napuat said the economic hub represents an important opportunity to strengthen businesses, improve livelihoods, and empower women and youth through local products and ideas.

“This hub represents an opportunity to strengthen business, livelihoods, women and youth through the different ideas they have for their local products.”

He thanked the community leaders of Emua for their partnership and commitment in helping make the development possible.

The Prime Minister said the hub will make it easier for local people to sell products directly within their own area.

He gave the example of a local fisherman, saying the hub allows someone returning from fishing to use the facility as a place to sell fish immediately.

“If a local person goes fishing, they can use this hub to sell their fish straight away.”

He added that the network created through the hub will also help small businesses connect with buyers and other local producers.

The official opening of the Economic Micro-Hub was carried out by the Member of Parliament for North Efate, Fred Samuel.

Government leaders are now calling on people across Efate to protect the facility and make full use of it.

Prime Minister Napuat encouraged the community to see the hub as more than just a market space.

“Let this hub be a place of many ideas, teamwork, and a place where aspirations can continue to grow.”