Microfinance network South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) officially opened its 11th branch in Korovou, Tailevu yesterday.
The new Korovou branch will serve as an important base for SPBD’s operations in the area, allowing it to enhance its relationship with existing members, and extending the reach to more women seeking opportunities to start or expand their businesses.
Chief guest and Korovou district officer Salanieta Baleigau said the new branch showed the level of commitment and the strength of the journey of the SPBD in the country.
“Women have always played an important role in our families, our communities, and our economies. Today, women are increasingly becoming entrepreneurs, business owners, managers, professionals and leaders,” Ms Baleigau said.
“Women in business are not only building business, they are building families, creating jobs, supporting communities, and contributing to national economic development.”
SPBD Fiji general manager Nitesh Sinha said their 11th branch represented growth, progress and their commitment to serving their members better through improved accessibility and timely services.
“Today is more than the opening of a new office. It is a reaffirmation of SPBD Fiji’s commitment to empowering women, strengthening families and creating economic opportunities throughout Fiji,” Mr Sinha said.
“Through access to financing, savings opportunities, financial literacy and business development support, we hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of families across Tailevu,” Mr Sinha said.
SPBD Fiji board director Lorraine Seeto said it was pleasing to see the institution’s expansion to be closer to its members “so they are more accessible to SPBD’s services and use their time more efficiently”.
“We are now closer to our valued members and our outreach is penetrating the rural areas of Fiji,” Ms Seeto told this newspaper.
Picture: TIMOCI VULA
