WOMEN living in rural Fiji should receive the same level of government services as those in urban centres, says Social Protection Minister Sashi Kiran.
Ms Kiran made the statement while speaking at the commemoration of International Women’s Day at the Labasa Civic Centre, calling for stronger partnerships between communities and government agencies.
Ms Kiran said many women in rural areas still struggled to access important services such as legal aid, health checks and welfare support.
“Women in rural areas should be able to access the same services that urban centres such as Lautoka or Suva receive,” she said.
She said the Government was ready to bring services directly to communities through outreach programs.
These services include legal assistance, health screenings for HIV, cervical cancer and breast cancer, as well as welfare support.
She warned that many women were dying from preventable diseases because they sought treatment too late.
“Cervical cancer and breast cancer can be treated if detected early, but many women come to hospitals when it is already too late.”
She also urged community groups such as the Labasa Women’s Forum and Soqosoqo Vakamarama to work closely with government offices.
“You know which elderly women need help and which families are struggling. If we work together, we can ensure government services reach even the most remote areas.”
