The Clopcott squatter settlement established in 1969 at Yalelevu in Ba this week received a timely visit by the Minister for Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Jiko Luveni.
The Clopcott community has a population of more than 300 people, who for the first time met any Cabinet Minister.
Dr Luveni presented a certificate of commitment to the new committee formed in Clopcott which is dedicated to promoting women’s empowerment.
Clopcott is the 86th community to join the Zero Tolerance Violence Free Community Campaign, and the official launch marked the beginning of eight months of awareness programs that would be facilitated by the Ministry of Women and Fiji Police.
In her opening address, Dr Luveni reiterated the campaign opened a gateway for communities to work closely with the Ministry to promote women empowerment and gender equality.
“The Bainimarama Government continues to push for programs which aims to empower women as the basis for developing this nation. Gender equality can truly be achieved when men and women learn to work together, to share the work load and equally participate into decision making. The Bainimarama government has also strengthened legislative laws to protect women and children-through the Domestic Violence Decree and Child Welfare Decree,” Dr Luveni said.
“The campaign spreads the message that violence be it physical or verbal is a serious crime and it should be reported to the police. The campaign is powerful in the way it captures male support to champion the violence free homes and communities.”
Spokesman for Clopcott Settlement, Mukesh Chand further highlighted the crucial role of gatekeepers committee in determining the success rate of the new venture.
“Women play an important role in this community, they face problems like domestic violence and some of the women are afraid to report the case. That is why a gatekeepers committee has been formed to help the victims to seek help and the team will also work with the police, to keep a close eye on all the members of the community, to ensure that they all comply with the law and order,” Mr Chand said.
“And anyone found breaking the law will be handed over to the police, there is zero tolerance on all forms of violence. This campaign is a worthwhile investment into the lives of women and children in Clopcott settlement.”
Expressing similar sentiments, Clopcott Women’s Club representative, Nirmala Kumar said the awareness workshops will unite the men and women to gather collective ideas to steer positive development in their settlement.
“In this settlement, there are women who have been victims of domestic violence and some even tried to commit suicide. The campaign will empower women to be brave and not to shy away or run from their problems,” Mrs Kumar said.
“We are deeply touched by Madam Minister’s message, encouraging men and women to work together, to appreciate each other’s role. Her message for the women to be confident has motivated Clopcott women to aspire for their dreams. It has also been first time for us to meet the Minister who speaks so highly about women. In fact we liked her speech so much that we have recorded it and we will be glad to share the ideas given by her with other women. The information shared here today will help improve the lives of our dear sisters,” she added.
Dr Luveni officiated at similar programs at Bangladesh Settlement in Tavua and Vatukaceveceva Village in Ra along with Nasomo Village in Vatukoula, Tavua this week.
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