Govt support helps Labasa women challenge gender norms

Mereia Diwaqaca and Subhashni Ravina Singh are proving that women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields, thanks to support from the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection.

Ms Diwaqaca, a kava vendor, and Ms Singh, who sells kava and fish, received income-generation support during a visit yesterday by Minister Shashi Kiran to the Golden Age Home in Labasa.

The assistance included essential equipment such as scales, tables, tarpaulins, chairs, and containers to help the women expand and improve their businesses.

“I go out for fishing and I sell them,” said Ms Singh. “As a woman, this field is mostly male-dominated, and it was never easy. I feel honoured to receive this support because fishing is my passion.”

Ms Diwaqaca expressed similar gratitude, saying the support would help her grow her kava business and become more independent.

Ms Kiran said the visit highlighted the challenges women face daily and the ministry’s commitment to supporting them.

“Many women, including single mothers and widows, go through multiple challenges. International Women’s Day is a time to raise awareness of these issues,” she said.

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Shashi Kiran at Golden Age Home in Labasa during the handover of income generation projects to social welfare beneficiaries on March 3, 2026.

Photo: Supplied

The ministry continues to empower women through the Women’s Economic Empowerment National Action Plan and other livelihood programmes.

“We are also working to increase women’s representation in leadership and reviewing our National Gender-Based Violence plan to protect women from violence,” Ms Kiran added.

She noted that most domestic violence cases are reported from Vanua Levu, with the Northern Division ranking high, and highlighted ongoing programmes to safeguard children.

Ms Kiran thanked the staff and beneficiaries for their efforts, emphasizing that empowering women and protecting children remain key priorities for the ministry.