WOMEN are the backbone of their families and communities and their contributions should be recognised as they are important in the socio-economic development of this nation.
Speaking during her recent tour in Savusavu Minister for Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation Doctor Jiko Luveni said she was impressed to see the variety of skills and talents of the Savusavu women.
She said the ministry would facilitate similar events and promote the income-generating skills of the women in Vanua Levu.
"Once the centre is operational, it will complement the role of Savusavu women and they can market and co-ordinate their handicrafts and other income-generating products from this very centre," Dr Luveni said.
"It will no doubt attract the tourists to Savusavu and will boost the income-generation for these women, help them to walk out of poverty."
In January this year, the Minister for Women had officiated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of Savusavu's first Women's Resource Centre.
Joining the International Women's Day celebrations in Savusavu on Thursday, Salanieta Savukini from Veilomani community, well known for soap making and production of virgin coconut oil in Savusavu, applauded the government's initiatives to provide economic opportunities for women.