Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Rosy Akbar said she would work hard to improve the livelihood of Fijian women.

She hopes to end dependency and reliance on Government help to improve livelihood.

She made the comment when she was welcomed by the Fiji Women’s Federation Advisory Committee yesterday.

She said the Ministry’s vision, with the assistance of the committee and other stakeholders, was to help women become industrious and assertive.

She urged women to use their talents and the rich natural resources around them to build wealth and improve their livelihoods.

“I look forward to strengthening the work of my ministry with your groups to tackle the syndrome of hand –out, dependence and hopelessness,” she said.

“The ministry’s goal is to create a violent free community.”

Asenaca Moroci, co-ordinator of The Buret Resources Centre said, “With today’s meeting, any doubt that may have occurred with the change in our minister has definitely gone. We are very pleased to have her. I can say I am sure she will do what is in the best interest of the ministry.”

President of the Shrest Mothers Club, Savita Sharma said, “We are glad that Ms Akbar will be leading the ministry. We look forward to working with her and will support her in every way possible.”

Ms Akbar commended some men for helping the ministry move forward for a gender equality in its bid.

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