Gender quality is not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity.
These were words highlighted by the Minister for Women’s Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran in her official address commemorating International Women’s Day at the Reserve Bank of Fiji, yesterday.
Ms Kiran said throughout Fiji’s history, women have played a pivotal role in driving economic success and national development, whether it’s at the village level, at a farm level or from leading businesses and financial institutions to transforming industries and communities.
“Our women have continuously proven their ability to innovate, manage and create opportunities that propel our economy forward,” Ms Kiran said.
“When we empower our women economically, we unlock a multiplier effect that benefits families, businesses and the nation as a whole, businesses that champion gender equality and promote respect for the rights of women and girls do more than drive social progress,” she said.
She said women create stronger, more resilient and more successful enterprises, underscoring research that shows that investing in women leads to increased productivity, organizational effectiveness, return on investment and higher consumer satisfaction in any business.
“The government of Fiji has demonstrated strong commitment to fostering gender equality through the implementation of gender responsive planning and budgeting.
“This approach integrates gender considerations into the national budget process, ensuring that policies and programs effectively address the needs of all gender.
“These efforts align with the government’s broader objectives to reduce gender gaps and establish gender responsive public financial management system,” Ms Kiran said.
The Minister further reconfirmed her commitment to advocating for an enabling environment for easy access to credit and other banking services for Fijian women in finance and businesses.
“Fiji women, not only entrepreneurs, the private sector play a crucial role in shaping more equitable and prosperous society.
“By integrating gender inclusive policies and practices, businesses can drive meaningful change and tap into untapped economic potential,” she said.
