WOMEN in the Western Division have been encouraged to become more involved in the electoral process as the country prepares for the 2014 elections.
Opening a workshop in Lautoka yesterday, Commissioner Western Commander Joeli Cawaki highlighted the importance of women's participation in Fiji's road to democracy.
"Most women in the Western Division are generally not aware of the significance of their participation in the electoral process and to realise that they can contribute meaningfully towards the political development of our country," said Cdr Cawaki.
He said the United Nations Women's Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections (BRIDGE) project was an ideal vehicle to promote the development of women leaders.
"This BRIDGE program is aimed at enhancing the leadership skills of potential women and men leaders who are already serving in our communities and to strengthen leadership competitive power. It is for our communities to recognise, appreciate the capabilities of women leaders as decision-makers.
"The BRIDGE training project supports the attainment of leadership skills for our women so that women representatives from our division can actively participate in the 2014 political process."
Cdr Cawaki acknowledged the partnership of the UN Women through financial and technical assistance to make it possible for men and women leaders in the west to understand the electoral processes. He opened a five-day training workshop in Lautoka yesterday where participants will learn about UN Women Gender Equality in Political Governance and its key understandings.