The Minister for Fisheries, Alitia Bainivalu, has presented a new boat and its certification to the Somosomo Women’s Association in Taveuni. This initiative comes as a significant aid to enhance the operations of sea cucumber businesses, allowing women in the community to boost their economic activities more effectively.
The Minister’s support includes the distribution of a fibreglass boat to the association, demonstrating a commitment to empowering women in their efforts to cultivate and market sea cucumbers. This initiative is expected to strengthen production and contribute to the local economy.
Bainivalu expressed profound gratitude for the collaboration with the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), highlighting their crucial role in promoting sustainable practices and supporting local engagements. The Minister underscored the importance of the community’s contribution to enhancing agricultural productivity and their determination to improve livelihoods through cooperative efforts.
One of the beneficiaries, Claude Prevost, who manages a sea cucumber business in Taveuni, reiterated that local efforts are essential to sustaining and growing this sector. The initiative aims to ensure that women can effectively manage the resources they harvest and sell, ultimately leading to increased profitability.
Bainivalu also encouraged the community to maintain the government-provided resources diligently, emphasizing that by working together, there is a potential to significantly increase their business ventures, resulting in economic stability and growth.
This initiative is a hopeful step towards empowering women in Taveuni and fostering economic independence, showcasing successful partnerships that can lead to sustainable development in local industries.
In summary, the recent donation of a boat to the Somosomo Women’s Association signifies a pivotal effort to support women-led sea cucumber businesses, offering them the tools needed for greater economic success while preserving important agricultural practices.
Leave a comment