Filimoni Vosarogo, the Acting Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, is promoting a crucial message for women in rural communities: prioritizing health by scheduling regular medical checkups and prioritizing early detection of serious health issues. During the ongoing REACH event in Saolo Village, Bua, he highlighted a common trend where women often overlook their health in favor of family responsibilities, which can lead to negative health outcomes.
Vosarogo underscored the life-saving potential of early detection for critical conditions, such as breast and cervical cancer. He pointed out the emotional and mental toll that illnesses can have, encouraging timely medical interventions combined with strong family support. He stated, “Our women are the workhorses of the family and the community,” and he urged mothers, sisters, and daughters to place their health at the forefront, even amidst the demands of their roles.
Additionally, Vosarogo emphasized the importance of involvement from men and other family members in promoting women’s health. He explained, “When a woman is dealing with a serious illness, it doesn’t just affect her; it affects the whole family,” reinforcing the idea that a woman’s well-being is linked to the health of the entire family unit.
Despite the urgency of these health concerns, many women in rural and maritime areas face significant barriers to accessing healthcare, including distance challenges, transportation costs, and limited healthcare facilities. Yet, Vosarogo praised the efforts of medical teams and health partners dedicated to expanding services to those in need. The REACH programme, which collaborates with 21 government ministries and various stakeholders, aims to enhance health awareness and increase accessibility to essential services.
This initiative is particularly timely, coinciding with both Breast Cancer Awareness Month and International Rural Women’s Day, highlighting a comprehensive effort to uplift and empower women in Fiji. The initiatives undertaken through the REACH programme are poised to greatly improve health outcomes for women in rural communities, reinforcing family structures and bolstering community resilience. The focus on women’s health is not merely an individual concern, but a vital community issue that underscores the interdependence of family welfare and public health.