Hon. Qereqeretabua officiates at the RFMF International Women’s Day event

The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) today commemorated the International Women’s Day (IWD) at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, Suva. As the world prepares to celebrate the IWD tomorrow, the RFMF’s celebration underscored the need to work collaboratively to accelerate action towards gender equality and empowerment of women in every aspect of our national development.

Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Lenora Qereqeretabua was honored to be the chief guest at the celebrations based on 2025 IWD theme, “Accelerate Action”. The program highlighted the remarkable accomplishments of women in Fiji’s defence workforce and their unwavering commitment to peacekeeping and nation-building.

In her remarks, Hon. Qereqeretabua expressed her profound appreciation to all the women serving in Fiji’s defence and security sector, both at home and abroad. She acknowledged them for their courage and selfless service which is a testament to the great strength and resilience of women.

Hon. Qereqeretabua thanked all the women in defence workforce for their immense contribution to national security and global peacekeeping. She also conveyed her gratitude to the RFMF for organizing the program that reflects RFMF’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment of women.

Further, Hon. Qereqeretabua reaffirmed the Fiji Government’s commitment to the empowerment of women and girls in Fiji and to creating an inclusive society where everyone has equal rights to accomplish their aspirations and reach full potential, regardless of their gender, ethnicity or background. She encouraged that as a nation, we need to work together and stand firm in making the rights and empowerment of women and girls, a reality.

The Deputy Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Commodore Humphrey Tawake affirmed the RFMF’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment of women in the RFMF workforce.

Hon. Qereqeretabua and Commodore Tawake extended their best wishes for a Happy Women’s Day to all the women in Fiji and abroad, thanking them for their incredible contribution and support to their families, communities and the nation.

The International Women’s Day celebrations marked worldwide on 8th of March is a special occasion that reinforces the message that women are backbone of their families and communities and their contributions are indispensable to achieving peace, prosperity and sustainable development.

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