Acting Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Filimoni Vosarogo, is advocating for women in rural communities to focus on their health by emphasizing the necessity of regular medical checkups and early detection of serious illnesses. During the ongoing REACH event in Saolo Village, Bua, he noted that many women often put their responsibilities ahead of their well-being, which can have dire consequences.
Vosarogo highlighted the critical importance of health screenings for conditions like breast and cervical cancer, stressing that early detection can be life-saving. He recognized the emotional and mental burdens that illnesses impose on women, urging for early intervention and robust family support. “Our women are the workhorses of the family and the community,” Vosarogo observed, encouraging mothers, sisters, and daughters to prioritize their health amidst their demanding roles.
In his address, Vosarogo also called on men and family members to actively support the health of women in their households, outlining that a woman’s health significantly impacts the entire family. “When a woman is dealing with a serious illness, it doesn’t just affect her; it affects the whole family,” he explained.
Access to healthcare remains a significant challenge for many women in rural and maritime areas. Issues such as distance, transport costs, and limited health facilities are persistent barriers. However, Vosarogo commended the efforts of medical teams and health partners for working to bring services closer to those in need. The REACH programme, which encompasses 21 government ministries and stakeholders, aims to promote health awareness and increase accessibility to relevant services.
This initiative coincides not only with Breast Cancer Awareness Month but also aligns with celebrations like International Rural Women’s Day, representing a broader commitment to uplifting and empowering women in Fiji. The work being done through the REACH programme has the potential to positively impact the health outcomes of women in rural communities, thereby strengthening family structures and enhancing community resilience.