The lack of knowledge of legal rights and business regulations are common barriers for women vendors, says Lautoka Market Vendors Association president Filomena O’Neill.
While reflecting on learnings from the UN Women symposium in Suva last week, Ms O’Neill said this hindered the growth and protection of women vendors businesses.
“There is a need for policy advocacy for equal opportunities and advocating on policy that address gender-based discrimination in business or market,” Ms O’Neill said.
“Microfinance and credit access to loans which limits their ability to scale up business or invest.”
Ms O’Neill said providing targeted microfinance services with low interest loans and flexible repayments terms could enable women to grow their business.
“Women vendors in rural remote areas may face challenges due to such limited access to network, electricity, water and transportation.
“There is a need to develop infrastructure in these areas so it could make it easier for them to operate their business effectively.”
Ms O’Neill said women in informal sectors were also unable to gain access to online markets due to poor network, illiteracy, lack of understanding and use of digital tools.
“So, there is a need for digital training so these women can participate in online marketplaces which can increase their visibility and sales.”
Ms O’Neil added that limited media coverage on issues faced by women vendors in rural and remote areas was also among the issues highlighted by participants of the symposium.
“Media does not cover activities that are organised by women in the market space.”
Ms O’Neill said the positive relationship between the Lautoka City Council and the association has resulted in the addressing of many challenges.
“There have been few development projects for the Lautoka market in terms of upgrading like the bus stand, public convenience, heat inside the market, the 24-hour Namoli Green Food mall has been approved so the council is currently upgrading the market.”
