MWYCFA sad $1.3m missing in govt $4.6b budget
By EDDIE OSIFELO
MINISTRY of Women, Youths, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA) is saddened to see their submission for $1.3 million to establish a Family Affairs Division not included in the 2023 Appropriation Bill 2022.
The MWYCFA Minister had asked Government to set up a Family Affairs Division to work with all Christian churches in Solomon Islands in order to reduce violence against women and girls and all forms of abuse to children.
Minister Freda Rotutafi Rangirei expressed this during her debate on the $4.6 billion budget in Parliament yesterday.
She said one of the most powerful ways to reduce all forms of violence and abuse to women and girls is working together with churches like Solomon Islands Christian Association and Solomon Islands Full Gospel Association.
“This is to enable churches preach to their congregations the Family Protection Act 2010 and Child Family Affairs Act 2017 in collaboration with biblical doctrines, in order for our Lord and Saviour to transform families, children and youths for brighter future,” she said.
“We believe all these violences and abuses as well as youths’ misbehaviours will become less so that our Hapi Isles would be peaceful Solomon Islands again.
“True transformation comes from God and if we support our churches with this $1.3 million each year, we can be able to see transformation in our youths, children and families where less violence and abuse will be experienced.
“True transformation, harmony and peace comes from God,” she said.
Rangirei said they have “fostered this understanding with our churches and was the idea given to us”.
She said since nothing will be given, the Family Affairs will not be supporting churches next year.
The debate continues in Parliament today, December 8.
