MORE than 2100 women are registered sugarcane growers in Fiji, says Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran.
While marking International Rural Women’s Day on October 16 in Tavua, Ms Kiran acknowledged the contribution of women in sectors such as the sugar industry.
“The reality is that a backbone of any farm has been a woman and all who grew up on the farms know that,” said Ms Kiran.
“Today more than 2100 women are registered cane growers in Fiji representing approximately 12 per cent to 13 per cent of registered cane farmers.
“And these women are not simply holding a name on a farm record.
“Women cane growers contribute about 12 per cent of Fiji’s total sugar.”
She said women have had a consistent presence in rural farms.
“Women are making decisions about their farms, managing households, finances, working in the fields, preparing land, weeding, harvesting cane, supporting their families through the ups and downs of farming season.
“You manage the income from the farm, put food on the table, pay school fees, care for children and older members in the family, making sure the household continues to function even when the farming season gets difficult like right now.”
Ms Kiran added that women must also be placed at the centre of discussions on resilience and rehabilitation of the industry.
“When we invest in the resilience and productivity of the sugar industry, women must be part of that investment.
“And that’s why today is a special day, and this celebration is so important.”
