Cakaudrove women register businesses, boosting financial literacy

Sixteen women entrepreneurs from the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei Cakaudrove (SVTC) have completed business registration, marking a step towards growing their ventures commercially.

SVTC president Adi Fong said 16 of the 44 participants in a recent business entrepreneurship training in Savusavu had completed their registrations.

Ms Fong said it was a proud moment to see women participants grow financially in the business sector.

“This achievement reflects a strong step forward in empowering rural women to become entrepreneurs, strengthen their livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to their families,” she said.

She said such progress would enhance the financial capacity of communities.

“The impact of the training will be felt for many years to come as these women put their new skills into action.”

Women Fund Fiji was acknowledged for financing the training.

“Your commitment to uplifting rural women is making a difference,” Ms Fong said.

“Women equipped with business skills will not only contribute to household expenses but also improve the financial wellbeing of their communities.

“Young girls look up to them. If women remain confined to household chores, the next generation will follow. But if women engage in business, the next generation will follow that path.

“Financial literacy opens doors to business opportunities, and young women are encouraged to take part in such training.”

Ms Fong said indigenous women had strong potential in business, particularly in arts and crafts, food production and fabric design, with handmade clothing proving popular.

“More women becoming financially stable through small-scale businesses will help the province grow and address poverty,” she said.

Cakaudrove is one of the three provinces in the Northern Division, alongside Bua and Macuata, and includes Rabi and Kioa islands.

Participation in such workshops helps women strengthen financial literacy while building on their creativity and skills.

All participants were acknowledged for their enthusiasm and encouraged to utilise facilities at the art and craft section of the Savusavu Market.