Women must be glorified and appreciated
“WHEN we invest in women, we invest in families, communities and nations.” This was the message by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Education, Tourism & Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka while celebrating International Women’s Day at the Women’s Expo in Vodafone Arena on March 8, 2024.
“Life begins with a woman; she is the tree of life. She must be glorified. She must be watered and she must be appreciated.”
DPM Gavoka added that everyone needs to review and renew their present responsibilities in making the world and Fiji a better place for all women.
“Today is a day to reflect on what we have done and what we have to do for the betterment of our women and girls.”
“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we are reminded of the importance of investing in women to accelerate progress,” DPM Gavoka said.
He said that as a society and a country, there was still a lot to do in empowering women and achieving gender equality.
“I stand before you with a sense of responsibility and commitment in advocating for the rights and empowerment of women nationwide.”
“The Fiji Government is currently strengthening institutions and civil society by promoting the full and equal participation of men and women in the nation’s development process.”
Litia Naitanui, who hails from Rewa and has her stall set up in the Women’s Expo, thanked the Deputy Prime Minister for promoting women’s economic empowerment.
“On behalf of all the women here, I would like to thank the government of the day for promoting gender equality and doing their best in ending violence against women and girls.”
Ms Naitanui added that she was grateful for the many of the Fiji Government’s programs that help women saying, “when we empower our women, we empower ourselves.”