My first Magazine UNDP REACH Impact Stories v13 web_FNL | Page 13

It is very important that in times where we are striving to
promote women’s economic empowerment, we create an
equitable enabling environment for our women. Under the
coordination of the REACH Project, we saw this time as an
opportune to bring to you essential services that you may
not be able to easily access.
Hon. Mereseini Vuniwaqa,
Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation
The Rotuma Women’s Association President, Marieta
Tiuhe’a said, “The social welfare services, legal aid
services, information on the issue on child abuse and
other information that was shared during the REACH
programme was an eye-opener for us. It was very
informative.”
“We, 14 of us, are privileged to b e part of the programme
today. We don’t have many chances to have this kind
of awareness raising so we will share what we learned
today with our people back home,” she added.
Head of the Nabukelevu District of the Kadavu Province,
Livia Mariwa, found the REACH service delivery a good
opportunity to obtain necessary information to assist
elderly women in her women’s club.
“In the rural area, we have limited opportunity to access
information and services. I found the REACH programme
is the chance for us to do so. It will assist for the needs of
our elders who are the foundation of our women’s club.”
“I am getting information on how to obtain assistance
so they can benefit from those services such as bus/boat
fare assistance and social pension scheme,” she added.
Empowering women has a positive impact on their
families and communities at large. Access to information,
social, economic and legal services gives Fijian women a
sense of boldness towards change.
During Expo 82 people (70 women and 12 men), accessed
the services on the REACH Bus and 79 people (67 women
and 12 men) acquired information and assistance at the
desk during the three days of the Expo.
IMPACT STORIES Rights, Empowerment and Cohesion (REACH) for Rural and Urban Fijians Project
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