The agriculture sector is now employing a considerable amount of women workers not only in Fiji but all over the world.

International Rural Women’s Day was celebrated in Labasa today focusing on the protection and empowerment of rural women through the provision of infrastructure and services.

Speaking at the celebration at the Labasa Market, Ministry of Agriculture Administration Officer Wainikiti Tunabuna says agriculture will remain a big and important player in government’s efforts to lift economic activity in the North and they have several programs available for rural women farmers.

Tunabuna says they are also being commended for ensuring the sustainability of their homes and community by improving livelihoods.

She says these programs will assist the women in having food security and will generate income for them and their families.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Sustainable infrastructure, services and social protection for gender equality and the empowerment of rural women and girls.”