The divisional craft shows officially wrap up today with the Central Division, the last to stage their event.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Women, Dr. Josefa Koroivueta says the craft shows have grown from strength to strength in the last five years.

Opening the Central Division’s show yesterday at Sukuna Park in Suva, the PS highlighted the importance of exploiting the potential of Fijian women.

“Empowerment of women is not a political battle. It’s not an issue about government alone. It’s the issue that cuts across all societies. ”

Of the 365 women participating in the Central Division Craft Show, only 120 will be selected for the National Women’s Expo which will be held in June.

The Ministry working with the Fiji Arts Council will select the women artisans whose handmade products are up to par.

“We are now investing in quality, we want quality assured products, we want quality driven products. We want the Fijian Made brand of quality best to what the world can see.”

The two day Central Division Craft show closes this afternoon.

Women vendors have come from as far as Beqa to sell and showcase their wares including a wide variety of mats, wall hangings, clothing and other household items.