Rural women in Fiji are increasingly being acknowledged through various outreach programs that bring essential services directly to their communities. Recently, a significant celebration coordinated by 27 government and civil society organizations facilitated health checks, legal aid, financial literacy, and social welfare services for over 1,000 women.
Minister for Women, Sashi Kiran, emphasized that this collaborative initiative among key ministries ensures the inclusion of all women in the nation’s development. More than 400 individuals, particularly from 29 villages, accessed crucial services for the first time, which included birth registrations, voter ID updates, and critical medical screenings.
A noteworthy aspect of the program was the financial literacy training provided by the Reserve Bank of Fiji, where 60 women learned essential skills such as budgeting, savings, and small business management. Kiran stated, “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.”
The Ministry of Women is also organizing the upcoming Women’s Nationwide Forum, aimed at ensuring that no woman is left behind in the march towards equality and empowerment. The commitment to fostering opportunities for women mirrors ongoing governmental efforts that underscore the crucial role women play in economic development.
In recent discussions, Kiran has consistently highlighted women’s contributions to various sectors, as observed in the Women’s Expo and other events celebrating women’s achievements. The government’s gender-responsive policies are designed to promote inclusion and support the economic independence of women, thereby strengthening both families and communities.
The prevailing sentiment in these initiatives is one of hope and progress. With continued collaboration and targeted outreach, there is an optimistic outlook for sustainable advancements in women’s rights and empowerment across Fiji, paving the way for a more equitable future. As these efforts resonate with the wider call for gender equality, the collective commitment speaks to the potential for transformative change in society.