More women across Fiji are starting businesses, supporting their families and improving their lives with the help of microfinance loans, according to South Pacific Business Development Fiji.
The organisation has now disbursed more than $150 million in loans to women entrepreneurs around the country since it began operations in Fiji in 2010.
SPBD Fiji Managing Director Lorraine Seeto says, the milestone reflects the determination and hard work of thousands of women who have used small loans to grow businesses, earn an income and create better opportunities for their families.
Seeto says many women have expanded market stalls, farming ventures, canteens, retail businesses, tailoring services and handicraft enterprises through support provided by SPBD.
She says the impact goes beyond business, with many women using their earnings to educate their children, improve their homes and strengthen their financial security.
The $150 million milestone was marked with the approval of a $10,900 loan to Nausori entrepreneur Sulita Vanabale.
Seeto says Vanabale's loan was the one that took SPBD Fiji beyond the $150 million mark.
SPBD Fiji currently serves almost 8,000 members across the country and has grown into Fiji's largest microfinance institution.
Seeto says the organisation was established to provide financial services to women, who had little or no access to traditional banking services.
She says weekly meetings, financial literacy programmes, business training and support networks have helped many women gain confidence and become leaders in their communities.
The milestone was reached through the organisation's Nausori Branch, which serves women entrepreneurs in Tailevu and surrounding areas.
Seeto says while reaching $150 million is a significant achievement, many women still need access to financial services and opportunities to improve their lives.
She says SPBD Fiji will continue expanding their services and supporting more women entrepreneurs throughout the country.
