“When I worked in a formal job, my two-week pay would finish quickly. But with peanuts, I sell today, I eat today, and tomorrow there is still money.” Henry Etau.
Mr. Henry Etau from North East Tanna has proven that dedication and persistence can turn small daily earnings into a major achievement.
After nine years of selling peanuts in Port Vila, Mr. Etau managed to save up to 1 million vatu — banking just 2,000 vatu at a time. With additional financial support from his son working overseas under the Seasonal Worker Programme (SWP), he was able to top up his savings and purchase his own Toyota Land Cruiser.
Mr. Etau shared that before starting his peanut business, he worked at Bon Marché for three years and nine months. However, he realized that selling peanuts gave him better and more consistent returns.
He began selling peanuts at prices starting from 20 vatu, later increasing to 50, 100, and now 200 vatu. Initially, he sourced peanuts from Epi, selling on behalf of suppliers. Later, he decided to buy directly, cook them himself and operate independently as his own business.
Mr. Etau’s daily routine begins early in the morning. From Monday to Saturday, he sells peanuts from 8am until 5pm before returning home, only to repeat the same routine the next day.
He admitted that in the beginning, the work was physically challenging.
“At first my legs were very tired because I am getting older. But after two or three weeks, my body adjusted and I felt strong again. Even when I feel tired, I still go,” he said.
He purchased the Land Cruiser not only as a personal achievement but also to help with transportation back home in Tanna, where road conditions are rough and only strong vehicles can access his area. He plans to ship the vehicle to the island soon.
Mr. Etau is now encouraging young people in Vanuatu to stay active and work hard.
“Don’t sleep too much in the house. I followed this mindset for nine years selling peanuts, and today I have my Land Cruiser,” he said.
His story stands as a reminder that small savings, consistency and determination can lead to big results.
