Sixty women from nine communities in Rewa, along with the Rewa Disabled Association, recently participated in the Pacific Women’s Economic Empowerment Program (PAC WEEP), aimed at enhancing skills in sewing, weaving, and jewelry making. The closing ceremony was presided over by Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, who awarded certificates for the Certified Training for Women Economic Empowerment workshop held in Nakorovou village, Dreketi Rewa.
The government is dedicated to unlocking the economic potential of Fijian women and girls, promoting their full participation and leadership across various sectors. Accompanying Minister Tabuya was Ciara Lee, a contestant in the 2024 Hibiscus festival, who has family ties to Rewa. Lee shared her journey as a young entrepreneur, reflecting on how her single mother played a significant role in shaping her life.
This workshop is part of the “Improving Livelihood Opportunities” initiative, which aligns with the Rewa Strategic Development Plan for 2024-2027. The program seeks to tackle social challenges within the villages and lays the foundation for economic activities aimed at combatting poverty. Additionally, the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection is working with key partners to create the Women’s Economic Empowerment National Action Plan (WEE NAP), which seeks to enhance women’s voices and influence in economic decision-making at both home and public levels.