Cerenasiga urges shared responsibility to tackle gender-based violence

FMF Duavata Northern Crime Prevention Carnival queen contestant Alice Cerenasiga says gender-based violence can affect anyone and tackling it requires collective responsibility.

The Year 13 student at Shri Guru Nanak Khalsa College in Labasa is one of four contestants vying for the Miss FMF Duavata Northern Crime Prevention Carnival title.

Ms Cerenasiga said gender-based violence was often associated with violence against women and girls because gender inequality remained one of the most widespread and deeply rooted forms of discrimination.

"Fiji is a small country, yet we continue to hear reports of gender-based violence," Ms Cerenasiga said.

"There are many factors that increase the risk of gender-based violence, and one of the most common, I believe, is poverty and the high cost of living."

The 18-year-old who resides in Delailabasa said the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters such as tropical cyclones and rising fuel costs had made both men and women more vulnerable.

"We need to empower both men and women and encourage them to do the right thing," the aspiring nurse said.

"We should not leave it to the Government, ministries and religious organisations to raise awareness. We must first educate ourselves about what gender-based violence is and how we can help prevent it."

Sponsored by Naqai Taxis and Car Wash, Ms Cerenasiga said Fiji could reduce the incidence of gender-based violence if everyone accepted personal responsibility.

The FMF Duavata Northern Crime Prevention Carnival ends on Saturday at Subrail Park in Labasa.