Despite advancements in urban development, rural women in various regions continue to face significant challenges in accessing essential services. Social Protection Minister Sashi Kiran highlighted that these women are still unable to enjoy the same level of services available in urban centers like Lautoka and Suva.
During her address, Ms. Kiran noted that local women’s groups in villages have expressed concerns regarding their access to critical services such as healthcare, legal aid, and economic opportunities. The situation is further complicated by geographical barriers, as many rural women struggle to obtain higher education due to distance and limited resources.
“While we have seen strong enrollment numbers for girls in education, numerous rural girls still find it difficult to attend secondary schools or pursue tertiary studies due to these obstacles,” Ms. Kiran remarked. She also acknowledged the tremendous burden that rural women carry, stating, “Our women wake up before everyone else. They plant, harvest, run families, and hold communities together.”
To tackle these challenges, Ms. Kiran emphasized the importance of fostering robust partnerships between government agencies and community organizations. Such collaborations are crucial to ensure that essential services reach even the most isolated villages, thereby bridging the gap between urban and rural access. By strengthening these partnerships, there is hope for creating a more equitable society where rural women can thrive just as their urban counterparts do.