Progress is being made in enhancing women’s entrepreneurship in Fiji, leading to increased innovation, community development, and job creation. This was highlighted by Chair Paul Jaduram of the Labasa Special Administrator during his remarks at the Northern Women Expo, where he discussed the low levels of female participation in the workforce.
Jaduram stressed that the Fijian government’s commitment, particularly through the Ministry of Women, is to achieve gender equality and empower women as a critical strategy for addressing these issues. He noted, “Today is a celebration not only of creativity and craftsmanship but of the strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit of women across the Northern Division.”
Prominent issues such as the participation gap in entrepreneurship and employment opportunities were underscored, with Jaduram challenging men to support their female relatives to engage more prominently at every level of development for the improvement of families and communities.
The Northern Women Expo is seeing participations from over 200 women from the provinces of Cakaudrove, Bua, and Macuata, showcasing a commitment to fostering a vibrant and empowering environment for women in the region. This event not only celebrates women’s crafts and talents but it also provides a platform for them to strategize and pursue sustainable economic opportunities.
New initiatives like this Expo reflect a broader shift towards recognizing the invaluable contributions of women in Fiji’s socio-economic landscape, emphasizing that empowering women leads to community benefits and aids in driving forward progress.
As efforts continue to break down barriers and promote equal opportunities for all, there’s hope that Fiji will see a brighter and more inclusive future where women flourish as key drivers of economic growth and social change.
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