Women in Tech Fiji Chapter launch marks nation’s journey towards greater gender equality - Kiran

The Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, acknowledges the launch of the Women in Tech Fiji Chapter, which marks a pivotal moment in the nation's journey towards greater gender equality and digital empowerment.

While speaking at the launch, Kiran described the launch as more than just the beginning of a network, it is the start of a movement that calls us to reimagine the role of women in shaping Fiji’s digital future.

She acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, MSMEs, and Communications as their valuable support has made this initiative a reality.

The Minister says the journey towards digital empowerment cannot happen in silos—it must be inclusive, intersectional, and intentional.

She adds that is why gender equality is not simply a women's issue; it is a development priority.

Kiran says under the Fiji Government National Development Plan 2025–2029 and Vision 2050, gender mainstreaming is not optional—it is woven into every strategic pillar.

She also highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive digital ecosystem, saying through the National Digital Strategy and E-Commerce Strategy, they are laying the foundation for a digital ecosystem that is inclusive, secure, and future-ready.

She says in addition to these initiatives, the Ministry is actively working on the Fiji Women’s Economic Empowerment National Action Plan (2024–2029), which will serve as a roadmap for dismantling structural barriers and creating enabling environments for women’s full and equal participation in the economy—especially in the tech and digital sectors.

Kiran says the Action Plan reflects their belief that women’s economic empowerment is a national imperative—not just a gender goal.

The Minister adds the Women in Tech Fiji Chapter aims to foster a network of women professionals who will support and empower each other to lead in the ever-growing digital and technological landscape.

She says the event marked a milestone in building a more inclusive and equitable future for women in Fiji’s tech sector.

Kiran expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the women who made the launch a success, encouraging them to continue breaking barriers and paving the way for all women, including those in rural remote communities, as well as future generations of women in tech.