Women of Cicia Island in Lau were reminded to remain committed to their organisation and stay true to their calling on the island.

Speaking to the women at the closing of the two days Cicia Women’s Expo at the Furnival Park in Suva, Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Vatimi Rayalu said that women on the island of Cicia have set a milestone.

“It is great to see the network that you have created within the island of Cicia and I commend you all for the efforts in bringing your handiwork to be showcased and sold here in Suva,” said Hon. Rayalu.

“I know there is a lot of potential with women on the island especially through their involvement in agriculture and I plead with you all, as you return to the island, continue to work hard and explore avenues which will enable you to raise your standard of living and help in alleviating poverty in your villages, communities and individual families,” added Hon. Rayalu.

The women of the Cicia Women’s Network also launched their five year Strategic Development Plan (SDP) and handed over an official copy to Hon. Rayalu.

“It is encouraging to see that you have put together all your aspirations and goals and factored them into your Strategic Development Goal for 2025-2030. Stay focused on the goals ahead and continue to persevere in whatever you do so that you help to elevate your standard of living,” added Hon. Rayalu.

The women earned around $29,000 in the two days that they had been showcasing and selling their handicrafts as well as traditional artifacts, mats, masi and virgin coconut oil.

Cicia Women’s Network President, Ms Susana Yalikanacea also a former agriculture officer said that even though she has retired, she continues to teach women the art of producing virgin oil.

“My love for the island and passion for agriculture continues, which was the result of the various initiatives for organic farming to be introduced on the island of Cicia. Cicia Island is the first island in the Pacific to be declared an organic island,” smiled Ms Yalikanacea.

“The strategic priorities listed in our SDP was derived from information and data gathered from discussions, meetings and needs assessment of the women on the island.”

“We are thankful for the commitment and support shown by Hon. Rayalu and the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways officials. We will continue to engage with the ministry in terms of agricultural programs for women on the island,” added Ms Yalikanacea.

The ministry hopes that more women will actively engage in agriculture in the rural communities and islands. The ministry also advises members of the public to visit their nearest agriculture station for more information and advice on the services and assistance that is available.

-ENDS-

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