Update: 5:37PM THE quality of Fijian products on display at the Suva foreshore craft show has grown from better to perfect.
Handicraft items such as baskets, artefacts, clay pots,
mats, jewellery and carvings were on display at during
the two-day Central Division craft show.
Sainimere Ratamala of Nadaro, Vugalei in Tailevu says weaving baskets and mats are
slowly deteriorating in some villages around the country.
Ms Ratamala is part of the 12-member women delegation from Vugalei, representing
their district at the show.
“I would advise women to revive our handicraft skills as it is dying
out,” she said.
Reapi Buiogu of Vunisinu, Dreketi in Rewa says she uses materials around her
and turns them into products to make a living.
Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Rosy Akbar says the
ministry will ensure that relevant and stringent processes are in place so that
the quality of food items and crafts meets market demands.
Ms Akbar says the ministry also appreciates and encourages creativity.
Fiji Arts Council director Lai Veikoso says it is encouraging to see the
promotion of women and their families creating a living from resources around
them.
