As we mark International Women’s Day today a special focus is on the plight of Rural Women and their realities in supporting their families.
According to the 2007 Fiji Census, the total rural female population is 197,703.
A local story that showcases the reality of this year’s UN International Women’s Day theme “Empower Rural Women End Poverty and Hunger” is that of 50 year old Melania Taulia of Naisogovau, Rewa.
The president of Naisogovau Rewa Asena Ratumaiyale shares her story.
Whilst there is a heavy concentration on handmade projects the women she said are looking at diversifying into new business opportunities of virgin oil production and also poultry.
The women are currently drawing up business proposals for these schemes.
The majority of members she says are housewives and income generating projects help sustain them.
Story by: Gwen McGoon
Empowerment of rural women - UN
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