In 2001, the Labasa Women’s Forum brought attention to a significant rise in poverty among women in the Northern Division of Fiji, revealing that many in rural communities faced challenges in voicing their concerns. According to a report by The Fiji Times dated March 9 of that year, the forum’s coordinator, Manju Ram, shared findings from an extensive nine-month assessment which indicated that poverty had become an urgent issue for women in these areas.
Ram highlighted the necessity for greater outreach by the Ministry for Women and Culture, urging it to establish programs aimed at assisting rural women. “Our request is for the ministry to reach out to rural areas and set up programs that could assist women in some way,” she stated. The forum, a non-governmental organization, had been providing scholarships to needy families in Vanua Levu but acknowledged that its resources were limited.
On International Women’s Day, around 150 women from communities such as Wainikoro, Daku, and Seaqaqa gathered at the Labasa Civic Centre to participate in discussions. While some women were initially reluctant to engage, the turnout from other communities was impressive. Three speakers from the Ministry of Health addressed the attendees, focusing on health issues that disproportionately affect women in the Northern Division.
Meanwhile, in Lautoka, another event drew about 50 women aged 19 to 60 for a one-day workshop organized by the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, also in honor of International Women’s Day. This workshop, hosted at the Cathay Hotel, focused on critical issues surrounding rape and sexual abuse. Salote Malo, the centre’s counselling supervisor, noted that the workshop aimed to enhance awareness of the rising rates of sexual offenses and included insights from representatives of the Police Sexual Offences Unit and the Social Welfare Department.
Participants included members of various women’s groups, such as the Prison Wives Club. Malo emphasized the workshop’s goal: to empower women to share knowledge and effectively address incidents of rape and sexual abuse within their communities.
The initiatives undertaken by both the Labasa Women’s Forum and the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre illustrate a growing commitment to raising awareness about crucial issues affecting women in Fiji. These efforts foster dialogue and support, laying the groundwork for transformative change in their communities. The collective response strengthens the movement toward addressing women’s rights and enhancing their socio-economic status, showcasing the resilience and courage of women in the face of adversity.