MINISTER for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran says stronger grassroots support and economic empowerment are key to addressing gender-based violence and child abuse in communities.
Speaking at the recent Nasinu Women’s Forum at the Yatu Lau Hotel in Suva, Ms Kiran said many women continued to suffer in silence because they felt isolated and lacked support systems.
Ms Kiran said support groups allowed women to share experiences and encourage each other to seek help.
She said economic empowerment was closely linked to reducing violence against women, with Government now focusing on training and employment pathways for unemployed women.
Ms Kiran said there was growing demand for skilled workers such as bakers, drivers and machine operators, while many women remained unemployed.
She also raised concerns about child sexual abuse in crowded homes and communities, saying Government was redeveloping a national action plan on the prevention of child abuse.
Ms Kiran urged women leaders to develop action plans and work closely with ministry officials to access training, financial literacy and legal support services.
