Minister praises faith-based group
“PARTNERING with faith-based organisations is one way for people to extend love and support to the most vulnerable members of our communities.” This was highlighted by Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Mereseini Vuniwaqa during the opening of the Darul Iqama Extension in Koronivia, Nausori recently.
“These parcels of land were given for the purpose of building shelter for the poor and needy Muslim Women,” she said.
“You should be extremely proud of what you have done for our fellow sisters who will be able to live within this facility – taking what was given to you some years back and expanding it to cater for the needs of more women and children.”
The first building was built in 2006 which had six units and another six units have been added to the existing structure which will be able to house 12 families.
This project is solely supported by the Fiji Muslim Women’s League through contributions made by fellow Muslims in Fiji and abroad with funds.
Minister Vuniwaqa said inclusive and sustainable
development around the world, leaving no one behind is the overarching vision of the United Nations 2030 Agenda which resonates well with the stance of the Fijian Government.
“Gender equality and women’s economic empowerment are central to the realisation of this vision, yet gender gaps remain large, pervasive and persistent,” she added.
“Each one of us has a role to play in making this world a better place for our own people.”
Minister Vuniwaqa added faith-based organisations are often on the frontlines of the issue of homelessness.
“Partnering with their local communities and sometimes government, faith-based organisations are able to work toward effectively treating the issue of homelessness because they recognise humans as spiritual and relational beings, in addition to beings with material needs.”
Fiji Muslim Women’s League National President, Zinnatun Buksh, said the home is for women and their children under the age of 14.
“It is about reaching out and understanding the struggles these women go through and we are hoping that with more support, we will extend and look into more future developments in the property,” she said.