In Fiji’s informal settlements, many mothers face significant social and economic disadvantages. With low education and skills, they struggle in the job market, impacting their children’s education and prospects.
Quick Facts
In partnership with INHAT, INFIJI, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade New Zealand, we are working to support solo mothers in Suva’s informal settlements. These mothers often face significant social and economic disadvantages, with low education and skill levels limiting their job prospects. Many rely on inconsistent support from former partners, forcing them to stay with relatives, which adds economic strain and can lead to social isolation and stigma.
International Needs Fiji runs a daycare that provides nutritious meals and care for the children of these solo mothers, helping to mitigate some of the disadvantages they face. With your support, we can continue to assist these mothers and their children and establish a well-regarded daycare facility. For every dollar you contribute, MFAT matches up to $4, amplifying the impact of your support.
About Fiji
Capital: Suva
Language: English (official), Fijian, and Fiji Hindi
Population: 938,000
Location: Fiji is an island country in the South Pacific Ocean, about 1,100 nautical miles northeast of New Zealand’s North Island. It consists of an archipelago of more than 330 islands, of which 110 are permanently inhabited, and over 500 islets.
Religion: Christianity is the predominant religion, with about 64% of the population identifying as Christian (mostly Methodist), 28% Hindu, 6% Muslim, and the remainder following other religions or beliefs.
Education: Fiji has a relatively well-developed education system, but it faces challenges such as limited resources, especially in rural and maritime areas, and the need for curriculum updates. Efforts are ongoing to improve educational access and quality, particularly for marginalized communities and those affected by natural disasters, which are common in the region.