Northern women lead food security push

Over the past two and a half years, 48 per cent of women in the Northern Division have been trained to lead food security and sustainable livelihood efforts for their families.

This was among achievements shared by the Lautoka-based Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises & Development (FRIEND) as it marks its 25th anniversary this year.

To mark the milestone, FRIEND highlighted key outcomes during Earth Day events at Vunivutu Village and Mouta Settlement in Macuata.

Acting chief executive officer Viloki Gohil said since its inception in 2001, FRIEND has spent a quarter-century strengthening rural Fiji through integrated social, economic and health initiatives.

Ms Gohil said the organisation’s 25-year history is rooted in the belief that rural communities have the power to drive sustainable change.

“As FRIEND marks 25 years, we reflect on one simple truth: sustainable development begins in communities — and it succeeds when communities take ownership,” Ms Gohil said.

The anniversary also highlighted achievements across 44 communities in the Northern Division reached over the past two and a half years.

These include capacity building for more than 4000 individuals; over 1200 households maintaining backyard gardens, benefiting about 6400 people; installation of solar lighting systems benefiting 2000 people annually; and provision of essential water infrastructure.

Ms Gohil said nearly 800 individuals — 78 per cent of them women — had been supported in income-generating activities, including value-added products such as infused oils, food products, agriculture and handicrafts.

Caritas Australia programme officer Jaspar McCahon Boersma toured communal farms and backyard gardens, engaging directly with community members on the project’s impact.

Mr Boersma noted the strong connection between Fijians and the land.

“To care for the Earth and to have the Earth care for you in return is a powerful thing,” Mr Boersma said.

“Caritas Australia and the Australian government are proud to support work that builds a foundation for sustainability and allows communities to decide their own futures.”