Namara women diversifying income sources and embracing alternative economic activities – PS for Women

Diversifying income sources and embracing alternative economic activities, Namara Women are recovering and building resilient ecosystems which will enhance food security, livelihoods, and overall well-being of their communities.

Permanent Secretary for the Ministry for Women, Children and Social Protection Eseta Nadakuitavuki highlighted this at the closing of the Building Resilience for Namara Women through Alternative Income Generating Activities Training.

The intensive four-day skills training workshop which was held at the St Vincent De Paul Parish Hall in Nausori, was facilitated by the Women in Fisheries Network through the funding support of the Women in Fiji Fund.

With the primary objective of equipping the Namara Women fishers with the necessary skills and knowledge to diversify their income streams.

Participants engaged in various skill-building sessions including tailoring, contemporary weaving, jewellery making, and fabric art, all with the aim of broadening their economic opportunities beyond traditional fishing activities.

Nadakuitavuki commended the dedication and enthusiasm of the participants throughout the training, emphasizing the importance of empowering women to become agents of change within their communities.

She says the Building Resilience for Namara Women program exemplifies their commitment to supporting sustainable livelihoods and fostering economic empowerment among women.

The Permanent Secretary says women's economic empowerment is also essential in our ongoing efforts to address the pervasive issue of gender-based violence.

The training program not only provided practical skills but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and collaboration among participants and trainers, laying the foundation for continued support networks and knowledge-sharing within the community.

Dakuiavuki encouraged the Namara Women to apply their newfound knowledge and skills in their daily lives, thereby creating pathways to greater economic independence and self-reliance.

At the conclusion of the certificate presentation, staff of Women in Fisheries Network also handed over sewing machines to each of the leaders of women’s groups from the six participating villages of Naikawaga, Naisausau, Nakorolevu, Nakalawaca, Matamaivere and Tubalevu.

The successful implementation of the Building Resilience for Namara Women training underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between government agencies, civil society organizations, and funding partners in promoting sustainable development and gender equality in Fiji.