Expanding market access for women in rural and remote communities is critical to economic growth and climate resilience, says Minister for Women Sashi Kiran.
She made the comment while addressing participants at the Pacific Women Entrepreneurs as Island Guardians (Pasifika WE-Guardians) Project launch in Nadi last week, noting that Government recognises and supports the initiative.
“We are working on a National Action Plan for Women’s Economic Empowerment,” she said.
“This includes strengthening value chains, improving digital inclusion, supporting ethical and sustainable branding, and partnering with the private sector so women’s enterprises can grow and thrive.”
A site visit to the South Sea Orchids last Friday allowed participants to see how small, targeted investments supported by the Innovation Fund could deliver real impact.
Ms Kiran said this included supporting climate-resilient production, reducing losses, and strengthening women’s participation across value chains.
She also acknowledged the importance of regional solidarity demonstrated through the project.
“Fiji, Samoa, and Tuvalu share common challenges, but also shared strengths,” Ms Kiran said.
“By working together, we amplify Pacific women’s voices, promote knowledge exchange, and demonstrate to the global community that Pacific-led, women-centred solutions are effective and scalable.”
“It is critical that rural women, women with disabilities, young women, and women from remote and marginalised communities are not left behind.”
The minister said climate action must be inclusive, culturally respectful and intergenerational “if it is to be truly transformative”.
The Pacific Women Entrepreneurs as Island Guardians $12.7million initiative is supported by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by Alinea International, in partnership with women-led entreprises in Fiji, including Samoa and Tuvalu.
