By Loretta B Manele’
Australia is proud to be supporting efforts for advancing women’s leadership in Solomon Islands.
Dr Tristan Armstrong, Councillor from the Australian High Commission expressed this whilst at the launch of Pacific Partnership Phase 2 and Project Golkipa on Tuesday, 26th Nov at the Mendana Hotel.
He said they are proud to support Solomon Islands women in politics, business, government, faith-based organisations, civil society, in communities and homes.
Armstrong stated that they are currently finalising the next phase of their bilateral support programme for gender equality which is for another four years’ worth around 10 million dollars.
He said they will focus on reinforcing women’s leadership and participation in economic empowerment, eliminating gender-based violence and providing more support for those who provide frontline assistance.
Armstrong pointed out that they know that achieving gender equality will require collective commitment, determination and a lot of work.
“So, we must really build on our energy and enthusiasm to go further every year in our work to change the situation and improve the lives of girls and women here and everywhere in the world”
Armstrong emphasized that violence against anyone should not be tolerated anywhere and it cannot be justified and excused.
He also shared that the ambassador for gender equality from Australia, Stephanie Copus Campbell during her recent visit to Solomon Islands was really happy to hear about the incredible progress that has been made for contemporary special measures from the grassroots to all the provinces and all the way up through government to the highest levels.
Armstrong said Campbell spoke powerfully about how improving gender equality is not just about the right thing to do but it is the smart thing to do.
He added that by fully realising the economic and social potential of women, who make up 50 percent of the population, this will drive economic growth, contribute to reduction in poverty and will improve the quality of life for everyone.
Armstrong said these are not just words because there is strong evidence from across the world in places where the energy and talents of women are given the space to be showed and flourish.
“Society and economy will also flourish and everyone will benefit from this”
Armstrong said in the last 12 years, Australia has invested over 300 SBD million dollars in Solomon Islands to address gender equality, improve the services for women and for survivors of gender-based violence, to strengthen the role of women in leadership and decision-making and to build up women’s economic empowerment.
He expressed that as we celebrate progress today, it reaffirms the call for action over these two weeks of 16 days of activism.
Armstrong said we must also remember, cry and grieve for other loved ones who are no longer here with us and families who don’t have any support.
He furthered that this is very sad and we must remember every effect of violence because it really touches the core of life of people and of anyone touched by violence.
Armstrong said he looks forward to seeing this Pacific Partnership Phase 2 and Project Golkipa take shape and address the root causes of gender-based violence to make real and positive changes in the lives of the women and girls in Solomon Islands and beyond across the Pacific.
