Nine people in the Northern Division now have a means to earn an income as they received tools and equipment from the Ministry of Women today.

Minister for Women Sashi Kiran, who officiated the event at the Golden Age Home in Labasa, says the handover was not just about the transfer of tools or equipment, it was about providing dignity, empowerment, and opportunity.

Kiran says though social protection allowances is a great government investment which provides relief and a safety net for families, older persons, persons living with disabilities, and children living with no regular income support, it is still not enough.

The Minister says people also need a pathway to independence.

She says that when one family thrives, the whole community benefits, and the handover of income generation projects will benefit communities by investing in its potential.

Kiran also urged the nine recipients to take ownership of the projects because in doing so, they will not only uplift their own families but also contribute to the economic resilience of communities.