Taveuni Hosts Inaugural March Marking 16 Days of Activism Against Violence on Women and Girls

For the first time in history, the island of Taveuni held a march to commemorate the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a movement dedicated to raising awareness and taking action to end violence against women and girls.

The event, spearheaded by the Taveuni Empowerment of Women Support Group (TEWS) in partnership with the Fiji Police Force, saw widespread support from the local community, including schools, government ministries, church leaders, and other stakeholders.

The march took place through Naqara, Taveuni’s urban center, with children from surrounding schools joining in to show solidarity. The initiative emphasized the importance of collective action and education in tackling gender-based violence, particularly in rural communities where taboos often hinder open discussions and reporting of such issues.

President of the Taveuni Empowerment of Women Support Group Maria Tawake said this was a big moment for Taveuni.

“This was a big moment for Taveuni. We are glad we could march today and raise awareness about ending violence against women and girls,” Ms Tawake said.

“We know many cases remain unreported due to cultural barriers, but our message is clear: men must love and respect their wives and children. Women and children are encouraged to speak out and report violence. Together, we can make Taveuni a violence-free island.”

Romani Pecisalele, Assistant Principal of Bucalevu Secondary School, accompanied his students to the march and spoke highly of the event.

“Education goes beyond academics. Through events like this, we aim to teach our students about the realities of life, instilling in them the values of respect and non-violence. They are future parents and leaders, and their participation today sends a powerful message.”

The march concluded with an awareness session led by the Fiji Police Force, the Ministry of Women and Social Welfare, and church leaders. Women from across Taveuni who members of the Taveuni Empowerment of Women Support Group celebrated alongside students, who performed dances and action choruses to inspire change.

The event also garnered the support of the District Officer and representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, reinforcing a collaborative approach to addressing violence.

The Taveuni Empowerment of Women Support Group, a grantee partner of Women’s Fund Fiji, has been actively working under the thematic area of Women’s Economic Empowerment. This year, they expanded their focus to include Ending Violence Against Women and Girls. Established in 2014, the group represents a diverse, multi-ethnic membership that includes 12 smaller women’s groups and 15 individual members.

Through support from Women’s Fund Fiji, the Taveuni Empowerment of Women Support Group continues to advocate for sustainable, economic, and environmental development, while empowering women to lead change within their communities.

About Women’s Fund Fiji

Women’s Fund Fiji is committed to empowering local civil society organizations to advance gender equality and women’s rights in Fiji. By providing funding and capacity-building support, we enable grassroots organizations like the Taveuni Empowerment of Women Support Group to drive meaningful change and build safer, stronger communities.

For media inquiries, please contact:
[Losalini Bolatagici, Communications Officer, WFF Phone: 8780956 or Losalini.Bolatagici@womensfundfiji.org]