Women’s contributions to Fiji’s agriculture sector were recognised yesterday during the National Women in Agriculture Symposium at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva.
The event was organised by the Ministry of Women, the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, and the Ministry of Forestry, and focused on empowering women farmers and strengthening their role in the sector.
Agriculture and Waterways permanent secretary Dr Andrew Tukana said the symposium was aimed at helping women access markets, expand their farming operations and become part of a wider marketplace.
“The symposium represents the empowerment of Fijian women in agriculture to access markets, expand their operations, and be part of a larger marketplace,” Dr Tukana said.
He said the Ministry of Agriculture was working to increase women’s participation in the sector through such initiatives, which began last year.
“The symposium last year was only between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Women, and this year we’ve included the Ministry of Forestry.”
He said the collaboration among government ministries created more opportunities for women to access services and resources.
“These events clearly indicate that government ministries are involved and provide better opportunities for women to access services and resources within the government.”
Dr Tukana added that the initiative could eventually extend beyond Fiji.
“We do not have to limit ourselves to the women in Fiji.
“There will be future opportunities for us to encourage women in other Pacific Islands and territories to get involved in this type of forum.”
