Rural women honoured for their vital role

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Nausori rural women market vendors poses during the International Day of Rural Women celebration at the Suva market on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Picture: KATA KOLI

The bustling Suva market took on an extra touch of colour and celebration this week as women vendors, farmers, and artisans from Korovou, Nausori and Suva gathered to mark International Day of Rural Women on Wednesday.

The event showcased the strength, resilience and contribution of Fiji’s rural women to the nation’s economy and food security.

Organised by UN Women in partnership with the Suva City Council, the celebration featured storytelling, and speeches highlighting the crucial role rural women play in sustaining families and communities.

Suva City Council head of Health and Waste Management Wally Atalifo commended the hard work, sacrifices and commitment by the women vendors.

“These women are the backbone of our local markets and rural communities,” he said.

“Their hard work ensures that food reaches our tables every day, their voices sustain our traditions, and their resilience drives the economy forward.”

Throughout the day, women inspired others by sharing their experiences of farming and entrepreneurship.