A total of 500 women artisans from all four divisions across Fiji gathered at Laucala Bay, Suva today for the fifth National Women’s Expo.

Opening the three-day event, First Lady Sarote Konrote says the Government is committed to developing women to participate in the economic sector of the nation.

Konrote says the expo is an example of an innovative intervention in terms of the economic empowerment of rural women artisans.

“The National Women’s Expo offers women an opportunity to refine their designs and business management skills through product quality control, packaging and labelling, certification, licensing and financial literacy assistance.”

Minister for Women and Children, Mereseini Vuniwaqa says the expo aims to improve the connection of rural women artisans to local and overseas markets.

“The national women’s expo is therefore a program aiming to empower Fijian women artisans as entrepreneurs and enhance their economic participation. The Fijian Government promotes women’s economic empowerment especially that of our women living in rural areas and maritime zones. In recognition of the fact that women make enormous contribution to economies. Whether in businesses, on farms, as employees, as employers or by doing unpaid care work at home.”

A total of 500 women from all four divisons across Fiji showcase their crafts at the #2019 National Women’s Expo# More on @FBC_New at 7pm pic.twitter.com/AMp9OzPBMo

— Kelly Vacala (@KellyFBCNews) June 12, 2019

The 2019 expo theme – “Think Equal, Build Smart, and Innovate for Change” is aligned with the UN theme for the International Women’s Day.

The event ends on Friday.