BY LORETTA B MANELE
Divided by the vast ocean but connected with similar traditions and culture through food and way of life, the spouses of the 54th PIF Leaders got to have a “Central Guadalcanal Experience” on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at Henderson.
The event, a first of its own was organised by Central Guadalcanal youths carrying the theme “Communities for Sustainability Eco-Tourism and Development Fair”.
Speakers at the event were Minister of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA) Cathy Nori and Premier of Guadalcanal Province, William Atu.
Nori expressed that youths should be champions and leaders in sustainable development while Premier Atu said the challenge now is to address the high percentage of youths on Guadalcanal.
The spouses were also acknowledged for showing up at the event.
On this note, Premier Atu made mention of a phrase that read as “Behind every strong man, is a woman.”
After speeches concluded, the women had a look at youths preparing local food using traditional methods, and happily examined traditionally made baskets.
Unexpected and to their joy, they were told they could take the baskets by a committee member Central Guadalcanal Youths.
The spouses also walked around the trade fair and visited the booths.
Larry Viravira, Chairman of Central Guadalcanal Youths told Island Sun that they were happy to have the spouses of the 54th PIF Leaders Meeting from Solomon Islands, Nauru, Tuvalu, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and Cook Islands visit them.
