Rabi Island women eye new space to turn skills into income

A dedicated space for Rabi Island women to use their talents and earn income is being planned for 2026.

Nau Takaniko, president of the Banaban Women's Organisation, said women on the island possess skills in sewing, weaving, baking and cooking but lack a proper facility to showcase their abilities.

"Women here are talented but do not have a place to use their skills," Ms Takaniko said.

"We have many plans, but we need space—separate areas for weaving, sewing, baking, and other activities."

The organisation plans to renovate their women's house, estimated to cost around $50,000, and establish a market space near the post office.

"We plan to use it for women farmers, bakers, those who sew and weave, and those who cook—so everyone can earn income," Ms Takaniko said.

"That is our plan to uplift the standard of women on the island."

The group currently teaches women weaving, hat-making for fishing, jewellery-making and sewing, but Ms Takaniko acknowledged challenges in engaging members.

"It is very hard to lead women," she said.

"If they hear that we are going to buy from them, they will come. But we cannot help it, because it is very hard to get money here."

Ms Takaniko, who runs a coconut toddy business supplying Marama Niu ice cream company, earning $500 monthly from 20 litres, stressed the importance of self-employment.

"If you work with your own hands and do something you know how to do, that is how you earn money," she said.

The women's house belongs to the Rabi Island Council of Leaders, which supports the initiative.