The Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection has forged a significant partnership with Habitat for Humanity Fiji to establish a Child Wellbeing Centre aimed at supporting street-dwelling children throughout Fiji’s four divisions. This initiative aligns with the objectives outlined in the Child Care and Protection Act 2024 and the Child Justice Act 2024, which are focused on enhancing child protection systems and improving the welfare of vulnerable youth.
The new centre will serve as a refuge and provide vital support services, including social support, psychosocial care, referral pathways, and reintegration programs for children in need. Minister Sashi Kiran emphasized the importance of this collaboration, marking it as a pivotal advancement in strengthening Fiji’s child protection framework.
“The Ministry will continue to work with key stakeholders, development partners, and civil society organizations to ensure every child in Fiji grows up safe, protected, and supported,” Kiran stated. She further highlighted that this initiative is central to national efforts aimed at safeguarding children against neglect, exploitation, and abuse, while also tackling the root causes that contribute to the plight of children living on the streets.
By merging governmental oversight with community-based expertise, this partnership promises to establish a sustainable infrastructure that prioritizes child welfare, safety, and dignity. Construction of the Child Wellbeing Centre will commence upon the completion of necessary technical and implementation arrangements, with a design tailored to the specific needs of children requiring care and protection services.
This initiative not only signifies a step forward in the commitment to child welfare in Fiji, but it also brings hope for better futures for the vulnerable children who will benefit from the services offered at the centre.
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