The Ministry for Women, Children and Social Protection has firmly rejected recent claims regarding the removal of individuals from social welfare assistance, asserting that such allegations are not only baseless but also misleading. Minister Sashi Kiran emphasized that the ministry is actively collaborating with other agencies to create pathways and support for those living on the streets, which include vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and beggars.
Minister Kiran highlighted that the number of individuals receiving social welfare assistance has steadily increased over the years. From 148,349 beneficiaries in the 2021-2022 financial year, the figure rose to 152,911 in 2022-2023, and further increased to 153,836 in 2023-2024. To enhance service efficiency, the Ministry is also undertaking the digitization of all Social Protection Programs and updating beneficiary records.
As part of ongoing reforms, the Ministry is laying out plans to assist individuals willing to transition to self-reliance, developing support pathways tailored to their specific needs. This aligns with previous initiatives aimed at addressing the needs of street dwellers, where profiling exercises have revealed the urgency for focused rehabilitation programs.
The Ministry also remains committed to addressing psychosocial challenges faced by street dwellers, with a focus on mental health and poverty. Ongoing collaborations with the Ministry of Health and non-profit organizations reflect a holistic approach to tackling these complex issues. The establishment of halfway houses in Nadi and Suva serves as a testament to the need for transitional support for those overcoming substance abuse or reintegrating into society after incarceration.
Furthermore, the Ministry has engaged community stakeholders and emphasizes the importance of collective efforts to restore dignity and offer essential support to those in precarious situations. This approach resonates with previous discussions that highlighted the critical role of family and community in caring for vulnerable populations, reinforcing a shared commitment to foster a compassionate environment.
The proactive measures taken by the Ministry present a hopeful outlook for the future, suggesting that with sustained collaboration and innovative programming, Fiji can continue to nurture a supportive society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
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