Ra Naari Parishad, the Women’s Assembly of Ra, is making significant strides in empowering rural women in the drought-prone outskirts of Ra. The group, made up of around 40 women of Fijian Indian descent, provides skills training, farming support, and peer learning opportunities to help members overcome challenges related to limited resources and climate stress.
One member benefiting from the program is 49-year-old Suman Lati of Nanuku.
Like many in her community, Suman’s family depends on water from a nearby well, underscoring the daily difficulties faced by women in this region.
Through Ra Naari Parishad and support from Women’s Fund Fiji, Suman received training on backyard farming and was supplied with seeds and seedlings.
With this support, she has established a small vegetable garden that generates a steady income, which she saves at the bank. “Not only has it supported our food security but we have managed to sell some of our produce supporting us financially.
Every month, they converge in their office in Rakiraki Town, something they all look forward to.
“For me, the best part is hearing other women’s stories,” says Suman. “It reminds us that we matter too.”
Most members of Ra Naari Parishad are widows, stay-at-home mothers, or single women who have lived their entire lives in rural Ra.
Many had never left their villages before joining the group, which has helped them develop confidence, new skills, and a stronger sense of community.
As International Rural Women’s Day 2025 highlights themes of empowerment, climate resilience, and economic independence, Ra Naari Parishad stands out as an example of grassroots efforts supporting women on the frontlines of rural life in Fiji.
Some members of the Ra Naari Parishad in one of the monthly meetings at their office in Rakiraki Town.
Pictures: SUPPLIED
Right: Part of the support including climate smart agriculture training and distribution of seeds to support food security and sustainable livelihoods.
