Two young women, Susana Baleira and Watelaite Mawamawa, have turned their lives around after years of living on the streets of Suva. Last week, they were officially handed a kiosk and housing assistance by Maciu Nalumisa, the Minister for Housing and Local Government. This transformative moment represents a significant shift in their lives, transitioning from homelessness to business owners and having a stable place to live.
The newly constructed kiosk, located near the Suva Municipal Market, will provide a steady income stream for the women as they operate their small business. In addition to the kiosk, the Public Rental Board is aiding their journey by offering them a rental flat, moving them away from sleeping in parks or on bus stops.
During the handover ceremony, Nalumisa shared his emotional interactions with the women earlier in the year, reflecting on the struggles faced by youth street dwellers in Fiji. He spoke of the heartbreaking realities of life on the streets, where many young individuals face poverty, neglect, and abuse, highlighting the need for community support and government initiatives to help uplift these vulnerable populations.
This is part of a broader strategy within Fiji to address youth homelessness. Similar initiatives, such as the Vendor Support Program for Displaced Youth, have already shown success in helping former street dwellers establish their businesses. These collaborative efforts among various government entities aim to empower young individuals, providing them with the necessary skills and opportunities to reintegrate into society.
The proactive measures taken by Minister Nalumisa and his team reflect the growing recognition of the complexities surrounding homelessness and the importance of fostering resilience among marginalized populations. With continued support, there is hope for a brighter future for many young Fijians once struggling for survival on the streets.
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