We are working with police and traditional leaders to address the increase in the reported rape cases of women and girls - Ali

The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre is working hand in hand with the Eastern Division Police and traditional leaders to address the significant increase in the number of reported rape cases against women and girls.

Centre Coordinator Shamima Ali says Nausori police and traditional leaders particularly in Wainibuka, and Verata in Tailevu approached them to run workshops for men and women so they can respond better to the issue and do prevention work from sound knowledge.

Ali says last week about 35 women from the same area including women leaders, village nurses and policewomen attended a similar workshop and this week 35 men are part of the workshop.

She says culture and religion play a very important role in the discussions.

Ali says they hope for an outcome where communities take responsibility for ending violence against women, girls and children.