Creating income generating opportunities for disadvantaged communities is one of the key strategies for the Fijian government as it implements reforms to alleviate poverty.

It’s in line with this effort that a partnership has been formed between Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Courts Fiji Limited to provide new sources of livelihood for people living in rural communities.

This collaborative effort today witnessed the donation of a manual singer sewing machine handed over to Mataisuva Women’s Group in Kalabu, Suva. It has bought a new hope for about 40 women in Mataisuva village who work as farm laborers to support their families.  

The women’s group leader, Mrs Kata Lutukivuya said this assistance will be a great help not only in developing their sewing skills but also earning income to support the education of their children.

“This is a great day for us to have the Minister with us to deliver this much needed tool. This donation is a motivation for us women to utilise our skills, sew school uniforms, dresses, mats, hats and handbags with voivoi patterns. And the Minister has assured that we will also be given a booth to sell our products in the Suva market,” she said.

During the talanoa (informal meeting) session, Dr Luveni reiterated that this partnership is aimed at reaching out to communities in improving their livelihood.

“This project is a result of government’s reform to economically empower disadvantaged groups, to change their mentality of dependency. Women have huge potential to contribute towards national economy, government will continue to work with its stakeholders to ensure women are given equal opportunities to elevate their financial status,” she added.

Courts Fiji Limited director marketing Mr Anil Senewiratne said this was an opportunity for the company to contribute towards government's efforts to poverty alleviation.

“We thank Dr Luveni for including us in this initiative to provide economic support for Fijian women. There is positive response from women to pursue sewing and venture into commercial business”, Mr Senewiratne said.

He said discounts will also be given to women who are keen on purchasing sewing machines from Courts.  

“We also provide training on sewing machine maintenance and repair. We will also be getting professional trainers from overseas to come and train local women into creative sewing designs. We believe that enhancing women’s economic potentials is one of the pillars for national development and as such we are proud to be part of this initiative,” Mr Senewiratne said.