There is strong regional support for plans to build special shelters that will transform the lives of women and girls through education, empowerment and enabling opportunities.

The Soroptimist “Sanctuary: Shelter for Women” a federation project of Soroptimist International of the South West Pacific (SISWP) will take shape this week.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama will be chief guest during the groundbreaking ceremony for a pioneering Social Public-Private Partnership (SPPP) to build the project at Lot 2 next to Golden Age Home, Lautoka, Fiji on Friday at 9.30am.

The Federation of Soroptimist International of the South West Pacific (SISWP) president Anusha Santhirasthipam said the project was fully supported by its members from 12 countries.

“It will see the first construction of several shelters at key locations in Fiji,” Ms Santhirasthipam said.

“It will cater for the most vulnerable women and children who are victims of violence, especially when rendered homeless by natural disasters

“The project sanctuary besides offering a safe space with basic sustenance will also provide rehabilitation, trauma counselling, education and skills training as well as access to essential support services.”

Soroptimist International of the South West Pacific Federation invites members of the public to embrace this project.

“We need to support them to create sustainable livelihoods for these women and life support systems for their families in need,” she said.

“Together, may we continue to prosper our women and communities to overcome poverty, pain and suffering and to enable these victims to prosper and triumph over adversity.”

Meanwhile, Minister for Health and Medical Services Rosy Akbar officiated at the welcoming ceremony last night for South West Pacific Soroptimist International in recognition of the groundbreaking programme for the Shelter for Women at the Ba Town Council Hall.

Edited by Percy Kean