The Ministry of Local Government is grateful for the timely assistance of Wash and PPEs by UN Women for the Municipal Market Vendors. This is the second batch of supplies that have been distributed to the 13 Municipal Councils during this second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Under the Markets for Change Project implemented by UN Women, the donor has supplied 100 premium bleaches, 3,150 antibacterial soap, 160 (pack of 100) of disposable hand gloves, 1,400 (pack of 5) disposable garbage bags, 55 masking tapes, 7,300 of disposable face masks and 365 hand sanitizers. In addition, 92 thermo guns, 278 face shields and 26 hailers-megaphones have also been provided to the Councils. The supplies are for market cleaning and sanitisation, protective equipment for the market management and staff, thermal digital thermometers for taking temperatures, and basic washing supplies for the market vendors”, stated Minister for Local Government, Premila Kumar.
The Markets for Change Project promotes gender equality through economic empowerment of women market vendors in Fiji and other Pacific Island Countries. It brings together Government, market vendors and market vendor associations, civil society organisations and UN agencies. The Project is implemented by UN Women in partnership with UNDP and the Governments of Australia, New Zealand and Canada.
“In May this year, UN Women had provided the first batch of PPE and washing supplies to Councils in Suva, Lautoka, Lami, Nasinu, Nausori, Nadi and Ba. The supplies have been used in the Municipal Markets with the aim to keep our markets clean and safe for the users of markets” reiterated the Minister.
The supplies will greatly assist the Municipal Councils towards addressing COVID-19 preparedness.
The Ministry appreciates the continued support provided by UN Women in ensuring that the market spaces remain safe places for all Fijians, as we battle the deadly virus.