The Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation will pursue new opportunities to empower female athletes across the country.
This commitment was highlighted by the Hon. Minister Rosy Sofia Akbar as she presented a cheque of $5000 to support the Ba Maathar Sangam women’s group. The women soccer team will represent Fiji at the Sangam World Cup in New Zealand later this week.
There are 11 netball players from Fiji who will be competing against international countries like New Zealand, Australia, US and Canada.
While presenting the cheque to Ba Maathar Sangam recently, the Minister encouraged more women and youth to take up sporting activities.
“There is a need for women to venture into sports and the Ministry will look into new ways to develop women into sports. I believe in Fiji, women have been recognised into sports and this can be strengthened if we continue to promote gender equality.
“On behalf of the Ministry, I congratulate the Ba Maathar Sangam for qualifying into Sangam World Games in Auckland and this is indeed a great opening for a women’s organisation. This marks the achievement of Fijian women into sports and the Ministry will continue to enhance the sporting talents of women. Wewish all the very best to Fiji team,” Mrs Akbar said.
Mrs Walliamma Swamy, president for Ba Maathar Sangam women’s group acknowledged the Ministry for its swift response.
“On behalf of the National Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Sangam Fiji, I express my sincere and heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry for availing this much needed funds. This money will help us to pay for the players’ accommodation and meals at the Sangam World Cup in Auckland.
“I am impressed with the fast actions taken from the Ministry to assist our team.This reflects the Ministry’s commitment to empower women at all levels. Most of these female players are from rural communities, and its encouraging to finally find this support from the Ministry. TISI Sangam has international branches and it aspires to promote the socioeconomic empowerment in our communities.
“The $5000 from the Ministry came just in time to motivate our players to give in their best and we will make Fiji proud,” Mrs Swamy said.