BY ALFRED PAGEPITU
GIZO
HUNDREDS of women from different schools, NGOs, churches, business houses, private sectors and women from rural area celebrated International Women’s Day yesterday in Gizo, Western province.
The theme for this year’s event is ‘Press for progress towards gender equality’.
Guest of honour Western province Deputy Premier Hon Malloney Lopoto highlighted that the occasion is celebrated internationally on the 8th day of March each year.
He said it is a time to reflect on the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.
“This annual event celebrates women’s unity, cooperation progress achievements and pushes forward towards gender equality.
“This day brings together global government, Women’s Organization, NGOs, stakeholders, churches, community partners and other stakeholders under the banner of International Women’s Day.
“This day itself will be marked by the talks, the activities, the programme, performances, rallies, connections and networking among women as the theme reflecting it states that women should be allowed to progress and advance in all their efforts.
Acknowledgement was rendered to participating women from NGOs, churches and communities within Gizo, Vella la Vella, Simbo, Ranonga and as far as from Marovo, Roviana, Vonavona lagoon and Shortland Islands.
During the celebration, Gizo’s Chief Health Inspector, Mrs Rendy Solomon also highlighted some challenges faced by women throughout the past years.
Deputy High Commissioner of Australia, Michael Hassett, and UN Women Market for Change Solomon Islands Market for Change National Project Coordinator Collin Potakana also acknowledged and appreciated women who participated in the celebrations.
Distinguished guests who witnessed and participated in the opening ceremony include the Deputy High Commissioner of Australia Michael Hassett and delegates, UN Women Market for Change Solomon Islands Market for Change National Project Coordinator Collin Potakana, Western Province Secretary Jeffrey Wickham, Western Province Police Commander Mathias Lenialu, Branch Manager NPF, Gizo Correctional Centre Officer and community based NGOs and other stakeholders.
See more pictures of the event on our facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/pg/theIslandSunNews/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1914032398927276
