The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade joins the global community in commemorating International Women’s Day [IWD] 2026 under the theme “Give to Gain,” recognising the invaluable contributions women make to the workplace, public service, and Fiji’s diplomacy.
Across the Ministry, women serve with dedication and excellence — from officers at Headquarters to diplomats representing Fiji at Diplomatic Missions abroad. Their professionalism, leadership, and commitment continue to strengthen the Ministry’s work and advance Fiji’s engagement with the world.
The celebrations held yesterday at the Ministry reflected on the IWD theme “Give to Gain” – emphasising that when women share their knowledge, leadership, compassion, and expertise, institutions grow stronger and nations progresses.
Speaking at the occasion, Multilateral Affairs director Anare Leweniqila, highlighted the significant contributions of women in strengthening Fiji’s foreign service and supporting the Ministry’s resilience during challenging times.
Asia Bureau principal foreign service officer Shanil Dayal also acknowledged the women leaders within the Ministry — from the Assistant Minister and Permanent Secretary to the chief of protocol, directors, managers, and officers — whose leadership continues to shape the institution and inspire others.
Executive Support Unit manager Josua Tuwere, shared the history of IWD, reflecting on the early struggles that gave rise to the movement — including the fight for better working conditions, fair treatment, and the call for women to have a seat at the leadership table. He noted that while much progress has been made over the past century, the principles behind those early struggles remain relevant today.
Oceania Bureau principal foreign service officer Rosa Dalituicama highlighted the challenges of working mothers within the workforce and affirmed the importance of women’s contributions despite all the challenges they faced.
As the ministry celebrates International Women’s Day, on behalf of the Minister Sakiasi Ditoka, we extend our sincere appreciation to all the women in Fiji for their leadership, dedication, resilience, which continues to inspire progress and strengthen our nation.
The ministry recognises the contributions of women across all levels of service, including foreign service, public sector, administrative and support staff whose dedication helps ensure the smooth functioning of the organisation.
The Ministry reaffirms its commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace that recognises and supports the leadership and talents of women at every level.
Oceania Bureau, principal foreign service officer Rosa Dalituicama.
Picture: MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Multilateral Affairs director,
Anare Leweniqila. Picture: MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS/FB
Asia Bureau, principal foreign service officer Shanil Dayal. Picture: MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
1 Staff members during commemorate International Women’s day at the office. Picture: MINISTRY of FOREIGN AFFIARS/ FB
2 Assistant Minister Lenora Qereqeretabua with staff members during the celebration. Picture: MINISTRY of FOREIGN AFFIARS/ FB
3 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledge women within the ministry.
Picture: MINISTRY of FOREIGN AFFIARS/ FB
4 Cut the cake… Assistant Minister Lenora Qereqeretabua during the IWD celebration. Picture: MINISTRY of FOREIGN AFFIARS/ FB
