Empowering Women: A Call to Heal Fiji from Within

The Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, conveyed a powerful message about the healing potential of women in Fiji during the Women’s Fellowship Prayer Breakfast organized by the Methodist Church of Fiji. She emphasized that true healing starts within oneself and within the home, encouraging women to take the lead in creating nurturing environments through daily prayer, positive actions, and mindful decisions.

Kiran highlighted the alarming statistics surrounding domestic violence in Fiji, revealing that five out of six children are subjected to violence and two out of three women face abuse from loved ones. She urged women to prioritize spending time with their families, noting how this engagement can help identify and address issues such as stress, abuse, or substance neglect in children. “By looking into the eyes of our children, we can see if they are struggling,” she stated.

The Minister underscored the foundational role homes play in instilling values and expressed the importance of women setting examples in areas like budgeting and preparing nutritious meals. Additionally, she raised concerns about the rising rates of non-communicable diseases and preventable deaths among women, advocating for regular health checks and a focus on wellness in homes and community groups.

Kiran called on women to become protectors, leaders, and healers within their families and communities, supporting the notion that real change begins at the grassroots level. Her message aligns with ongoing government support for policies and national plans aimed at addressing violence and promoting well-being.

This call to action reflects a broader commitment to create a safer and more compassionate Fiji, where every woman and girl feels valued and protected. The engagement of community and family at a grassroots level, along with the Ministry’s initiatives, provides hope for a transformative future. Kiran’s vision encourages collective efforts toward building a society deeply rooted in respect, love, and healing.