BAHAMAS: International Women’s Day recognizes women in rural communities

#Bahamas, March 7, 2018 – Nassau -The Bahamas will focus on women and girls who live in the remote areas of the archipelago, namely the Family Island Communities, in celebration of International Women’s Day, March 8, 2018.

The Minister of Social Services and Urban Development, the Hon. Lanisha Rolle, encouraged Bahamians to assist and support women in strengthening their communities, to help to build families and country.

She said women in rural communities have endured devastating damages as a result of natural disasters, low employment opportunities, limited weekly air and sea travel to and from islands and more.

“Despite these challenges, the women in these communities have been resilient and strong. Many of them have managed to eke out a livelihood through sheer grit and determination, using the natural resources around them to become skilled in straw craft, farming, fishing and making preservatives.  As a result, they have been able to sustain their families and remain in their communities,” she said.

Minister Rolle saluted the women of the Family Islands, The Bahamas and around the world.

A Women’s Forum on Thursday, March 8 at Harry C. Moore Auditorium will address the topic, “Challenges and Opportunities in Achieving Gender Equality and Empowerment of Rural Women and Girls.” A special video documentary showcasing the determination of women and girls in rural communities in The Bahamas and sponsored by the Department of Gender and Family Affairs will be aired on ZNS TV.

By: Kathryn Campbell (BIS)

Photo captions:

Header: The Hon. Lanisha Rolle, Minister of Social Services and Urban Development, speaks about International Women’s Day 2018 (far right); Emma Foulkes, Deputy Permanent Secretary (centre); and Coralee Adderley.

Insert: Parliamentary Secretary the Hon. Vaughn Miller is shown first from left.

BIS Photos/Derek Smith