Rural women in Fiji are gaining recognition through a series of outreach initiatives aimed at providing essential services directly within their communities. Recently, a significant event organized by 27 government and civil society organizations brought health checks, legal aid, financial literacy training, and social welfare services to over 1,000 women.
Minister for Women, Sashi Kiran, highlighted the importance of this collaborative effort among key ministries to ensure that all women are included in the nation’s development. Over 400 individuals, primarily from 29 villages, accessed crucial services for the first time, including birth registrations, voter ID updates, and vital medical screenings.
A standout feature of this initiative was the financial literacy training conducted by the Reserve Bank of Fiji, which empowered 60 women with essential skills such as budgeting, savings, and small business management. Kiran remarked, “This training provided valuable knowledge on budgeting, savings, small business management, and the importance of financial independence — key tools for women’s empowerment and resilience.”
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Women is preparing to host the Women’s Nationwide Forum, which aims to ensure that no woman is left behind in the pursuit of equality and empowerment. This commitment reflects the ongoing government efforts that recognize the crucial role women play in fostering economic development.
Kiran has frequently stressed women’s contributions to various sectors during events like the Women’s Expo, where women’s achievements are celebrated. The government’s gender-responsive policies are focused on promoting inclusion and supporting the economic independence of women, thereby bolstering both families and communities.
Overall, the prevailing sentiment surrounding these initiatives is one of hope and progress. With sustained collaboration and targeted outreach, there is an encouraging outlook for sustainable advancements in women’s rights and empowerment across Fiji. These initiatives resonate with a broader call for gender equality, emphasizing the potential for transformative change within society and paving the way for a more equitable future.