Bangladesh Settlement has become the latest community in Tavua to declare its pledge to the Government’s on-going commitment to create violence free communities in Fiji.

Minister for Women Children and Poverty Alleviation Rosy Akbar recently at the settlement unveiled a billboard in bold letters: “Declared Violence Free Community”.

“Violence is not a private matter anymore it must be reported to the relevant authorities,” Ms Akbar said.

“There are laws like the Domestic Violence Decree and Child Welfare Decree that protects the women and children against all forms of violence.

“Through this programme, the ministry reaches out to the communities with information and awareness programmes.”

The commitment by the settlement has been achieved through completing 10 phases of awareness programmes over a period of 11 months that had been spearheaded by the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation in partnership with Fiji Police and non-government organisations.

Swashni Devi, chairperson for Bangladesh Gatekeepers Committee thanked the Ministry of Women for initiating this programme in their community.

“There are over 200 people in this community who had the opportunity to participate in the series of awareness and interactive discussions.

Rishi Deo, representative of the Bangladesh settlement described the programme as crucial for community development.

“Violence destroys a family and the future of our children and we will not tolerate any forms of violence in this community,” Mr Deo said.

“We are trying to nurture the values of respect and trust among our community members, so that we can become a model community that thrives on unity.”

Source: Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation

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