Empowering Change: Fiji’s New Minister Sets Bold Vision for Women and Children

Sashi Kiran, who has recently taken the helm as the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, has expressed her strong dedication to tackling the ongoing challenges within society. During her swearing-in ceremony at the State House, she acknowledged the significant role this ministry plays in shaping the nation, emphasizing the importance of families, communities, and the future.

Kiran took a moment to honor her predecessor, Lynda Tabuya, highlighting her substantial contributions and the strong foundation laid for future initiatives. She conveyed gratitude by stating, “Vinaka vakalevu—your efforts have paved the way for us to take this mission forward.”

In her address, Kiran affirmed that the task of empowering women, safeguarding children, and supporting society’s most vulnerable isn’t the sole responsibility of one person, but rather a collaborative effort that must be sustained over time. She emphasized the crucial role women play in families, the workforce, and communities, asserting the need to address the barriers they face in achieving equality, safety, and opportunities.

Moreover, Kiran pledged to strengthen initiatives focused on women’s economic empowerment and promote gender equality, advocating for greater leadership roles for women across various sectors. She also identified children as the nation’s most valuable asset and committed to prioritizing their protection and well-being, which includes measures to combat child abuse and support vulnerable families.

Kiran’s vision extends beyond women and children, as she expressed her commitment to supporting the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and families in financial difficulty. She stated her intention to review and improve social protection programs to ensure they are inclusive and effectively meet the diverse needs of the population.

This new leadership marks a hopeful and proactive step towards fostering a more equitable, safe, and supportive society, paving the way for positive change and growth across all communities. The collective effort highlighted by Kiran may inspire a renewed sense of collaboration aimed at uplifting every segment of society.