Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, held a significant meeting today with Loau Donina Va’a, CEO of Samoa’s Ministry for Women, Community and Social Development, and Jonathan Veitch, UNICEF Representative for Pacific Island Countries. This gathering, held at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, focused on preparing for the Pacific Early Childhood Development (ECD) Forum, scheduled to take place in Samoa from May 13 to 15, 2025.
The discussions shed light on the pressing social issues impacting children across the Pacific region and emphasized the importance of regional collaboration and effective policymaking. Minister Kiran reiterated Fiji’s commitment to enhancing child protection measures, aiming to create a safer and healthier environment for children throughout the Pacific Islands.
The meeting featured key personnel, including Eseta Nadakuitavuki, the Permanent Secretary, and Veremo Muria, the Director of Children, symbolizing a cohesive governmental approach toward child welfare.
This meeting serves as a vital precursor to larger initiatives, including Fiji’s National Early Childhood Development (ECD) Policy for 2024-2028. This policy aims to improve healthcare, nutrition, and educational opportunities, alongside safeguarding children against abuse and neglect. These initiatives align with the ongoing commitment among regional leaders to elevate the welfare of children and promote positive outcomes for generations to come.
By prioritizing the needs of their youngest populations, Fiji and Samoa are setting a positive trajectory for a resilient, educated future, reflecting a hopeful vision for the well-being of the region’s children.
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