Kaiming Agro Processing Ltd, a ginger processing company based in Navua, has taken a significant step towards supporting its female workforce by inaugurating a new accommodation facility in honor of International Women’s Day. The newly built dormitory, which has 16 beds, is created in collaboration with the Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Plus (PHAMA Plus) Program, funded by Australia and New Zealand. This facility aims to provide a safe and comfortable environment for female workers who often travel long distances for work.
The company employs approximately 130 women out of a total workforce of 180, indicating a strong representation of women at all levels, from production to leadership. Calvin Qiu, the founder of Kaiming Agro Processing, underscored the importance of creating a supportive workplace, particularly for women.
In addition to the accommodation, the company has introduced a Workplace Domestic Violence Policy. This policy provides essential resources such as leave, salary advances, and provisions for safe accommodation, helping to ensure that employees feel secure and supported in their workspace. Elina Tawayaga, the factory administrator and Domestic Violence Focal Point, stated that having such a policy in place empowers women, offering peace of mind in knowing they can seek help if needed.
Emily Wilson, First Secretary for Economic, Trade and Development at the Australian High Commission, praised the initiative, highlighting how such investments not only contribute to employee well-being but also promote growth and productivity within businesses. Similarly, Jane Anderson from the New Zealand High Commission recognized Kaiming Agro for its commitment to fostering a gender-inclusive workplace, suggesting that these efforts are vital for accelerating women’s economic empowerment.
This initiative at Kaiming Agro Processing Ltd aligns well with ongoing efforts in Fiji to address gender inequalities and support female empowerment across various sectors, including agriculture. For instance, similar initiatives have been launched recently aimed at empowering women in rural communities, boosting their capabilities in agriculture and offering training programs to enhance their skills.
The hope embedded in these developments is that they represent a growing commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment in Fiji. As more organizations take part in supporting their female workforce, there is potential for a significant positive impact on communities and the economy as a whole, fostering greater success and productivity for all involved.
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