Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad announced a significant allocation of $4.1 million from the government aimed at promoting gender equality in Fiji. During his speech at the Budgeting for Women’s Leadership and Governance Transformation Panel, Prasad highlighted the persistent gender disparities in the nation, noting that women occupy only 25 percent of board director positions and just 9.1 percent of parliamentary seats, figures that fall below regional averages.
He emphasized that bridging this gap is not only a matter of gender equality but also a crucial governance challenge that necessitates collaborative and sustained efforts. The government is dedicated to enhancing women’s representation through initiatives like gender-responsive budgeting, ensuring that public finance considers the unique needs of women and girls. This budgeting approach aims to empower and support women entrepreneurs, farmers, and leaders across various sectors.
Prasad also invited women’s organizations to assist in helping women access funding and resources, reinforcing the belief that the economic empowerment of women is vital for Fiji’s Vision 2050 aspirations of becoming a high-income nation. He expressed gratitude to women leaders for their resilience and advocacy, assuring that the government remains committed to tackling institutional barriers and social issues, particularly gender-based violence.
This initiative aligns with previous efforts emphasized by Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, who has championed the economic benefits of women’s empowerment and the necessity for representation. Kiran noted that increasing women in leadership roles not only fosters social progress but also drives national economic growth.
As Fiji continues to implement these strategies, there is a hopeful expectation that these initiatives will lead to meaningful advancements in women’s rights and increased participation in leadership, ultimately benefiting society as a whole. The commitment shown by the government is indicative of a progressive shift toward greater equity and empowerment for women throughout the nation.
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