An overview of the First National Women’s Expo, which displayed the handiwork of rural and marginalised women, was presented today.
A total of 462 women’s group from all four divisions and 1938 participants networked to connect them to potential markets during the three-day expo last month.
The Marama ni Yavusa training had 50 women participants and 182 participants contributed towards the Women and Children’s Summit.
The Minister of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation Dr Jiko Luveni acknowledged stakeholders contribution to make sure the expo was a success.
“The many number of participants attributed to the early preparations, particularly the divisional staff who were in contact with the women’s groups around Fiji,” Dr Luveni said.
“Establishing a network ensures a wide participation from the various groups because when women are economically empowered, their families benefit immediately.”
The ministry spent $25,085.08 on Marama ni Yavusa program, $92,168.75 on Women and Children’s Summit and $421,738.54 on the Women’s Expo.
“Total sales recorded by the 462 women’s group was $133,152 with $34,091 from the Western Division, $39,795 from the Northern Division, $13,137 from the Central Division and $46,129 from the Eastern Division,” Dr Luveni said.
The income earned enabled three women from the maritime division of Lau to buy building materials for their homes.
Minister Luveni said the ministry would make the expo an annual event with the number of requests and support that was shown by groups and participants.
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