Caption:(seated in middle) Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Rosy Sofia Akbar during the Christmas celebrations organised for the children of residential homes at Tanoa Waterfront in Lautoka.Photo:SUPPLIED.
The Fijian Government will continue improving the lives of senior citizens and children residing in various homes around the country, says the Hon Minister for Women, Children and Social Welfare, Rosy Sofia Akbar.
The Hon. Minister made the comments as the Ministry, together with other donors, hosted a lunch for children living in welfare and sheltered homes in the western division in Lautoka.
“If the shoulders that you should have leaned on are no longer there, or people have abandoned you for some other reasons, we will help you and we will develop your potential,” Minister Akbar said.
“To the senior citizens, the Fijian Government cares for you and will continue to do so in the New Year. We want you to feel special as you have contributed to our lives and to Fiji.”
She reassured senior citizens that Government would continue to explore ways to further assist them.
“Our respectable elders, I assure you that by law, your interests as older persons are protected and the Government assures you that we will provide the means to see that you age with respect, trust and dignity.”
Under the 2013 Constitution, the Bill of Rights has for the first time incorporated the strong wishes of all Fijians including the providence for a wide range of socio – economic rights.
Hon. Akbar also urged Fijians around the country to share the spirit of Christmas with the less fortunate ones.
“I will assure you that this will not be the last of its kind a good will gesture by the current generations of leaders for our senior citizens. Not only this year but we hope to continue addressing issues affecting you in the next four years and beyond.”
DEPTFO