Moturiki Hosts First-Ever 16 Days of Activism Commemoration Led by Medical Services Pacific

Moturiki Island, Fiji – For the first time in Moturiki, Medical Services Pacific (MSP) commemorated the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, following two weeks of intensive awareness programs and service delivery across 10 villages.

Over the past fortnight, MSP teams alongside the Ministry of Health and Project Heaven provided comprehensive medical, clinical, counselling, and legal services to communities often described as “unreachable.” The initiative culminated in a vibrant island-wide celebration that united women, men, youth, and children in collective action against violence.

The commemoration featured village competitions designed to challenge traditional gender roles and promote collaboration. A cooking competition, for example, saw men preparing meals, an activity typically reserved for women in rural settings, demonstrating that shared responsibilities strengthen families and communities.

“After consultation with the Ministry of Health, we identified Moturiki as a community that urgently needed our services. Our mission is to reach those who struggle to access support. Over two weeks, our team carried out awareness on gender-based violence, provided counselling, medical, and legal services, and prepared for this commemoration,” said Taniela Vinaka, Accountability Manager at MSP.

Community voices echoed the impact of the initiative:

• Merewalesi Lagi, Village Nurse of Wawa Village, expressed gratitude: “I want to thank MSP for bringing this event to Moturiki. It encourages women, men, and youth to stop violence against women and sexual offences, including those affecting young boys.”
• Kalivati Karavanua, Village Elder of Nasesara, reflected on the historic moment: “This is the first time we have experienced such an event. We only hear on the radio and news about the rise in violence against women and girls. To witness awareness carried out here on our island is an honour. Violence is plaguing Fiji and having MSP here to protect and prevent Moturiki from experiencing more is truly wonderful.”

The event’s Chief Guest, Winifred Gauna, Senior Program Manager at Women’s Fund Fiji, reminded participants of this year’s theme, “Unite! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls – including in Digital Spaces.” She emphasized that safeguarding children, women, and girls requires a collective effort, urging communities to use digital platforms responsibly and for positive purposes.

This milestone event was made possible through the support of Women’s Fund Fiji, funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), as part of its Movement Building initiative to end violence against women and girls.

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