Habitat for Humanity Fiji is set to inaugurate a child wellbeing center through a newly formed partnership with the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection. This initiative aims to extend vital support to children living and working on the streets throughout Fiji’s four divisions. The partnership was officially recognized with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement, which highlights a shared commitment to enhance child protection frameworks as outlined in the Child Care and Protection Act 2024 and the Child Justice Act 2024.
The envisioned child wellbeing center will function as a safe and rehabilitative space tailored for children in need of care and protection. It will act as a central hub for coordinated interventions, providing access to essential social services, psychosocial support, referral pathways, and reintegration programs for vulnerable youths.
Sashi Kiran, the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, underscored the importance of this collaboration, calling it a pivotal step towards ensuring the safety of at-risk children. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to working alongside stakeholders, development partners, and civil society organizations to guarantee that every child in Fiji has the opportunity to grow up in a secure and nurturing setting. This effort aligns with national priorities focused on preventing neglect, exploitation, and abuse while addressing the underlying causes that drive children to the streets.
Sangita Kumar, the Interim National Director of Habitat for Humanity Fiji, expressed her pride in this partnership, emphasizing the powerful combination of governmental support and community expertise. Kumar noted that this collaboration will create sustainable infrastructure that promotes child development, safety, and dignity, while also enhancing community resilience and fostering inclusive social development.
Construction of the child wellbeing center will begin once all technical and implementation arrangements are finalized. While the specific location has not yet been revealed, the center is being designed to meet the distinctive needs of children requiring care and protective services. This initiative brings hope for a more supportive atmosphere for vulnerable children across Fiji, highlighting the strength of collaboration in addressing pressing social challenges.