By Loretta B Manele
There are certain essential perspectives that are key for growth in the community when it comes to uplifting women.
Kristina Sogavare, the Vice President for National Council of Women (NCW) highlighted this when she delivered her speech at the International Women’s Day event at the National Museum Auditorium yesterday.
She stressed that we have to look at actions that will uplift and include women in the community and encouragement for girls in the classroom.
Sogavare pointed out that this involves ensuring that women are given voices inside their communities such as in meetings and as teachers, making sure that girls are encouraged and inspired to pursue non-traditional career paths.
She said these are perspectives that are essential for growth in the community.
Sogavare went on to include policy makers.
“Policy makers and legislators, examine your work. Are your policies just and equitable for women in this nation?
Are you supporting initiatives to ensure gender equality such as reserved seating for women in parliaments and provincial assemblies?”
Sogavare said if we fail to honour and value women, we are failing to respect the very beings that brought us into the world.
In relation, she expressed that as women and girls, each day in every decision we make, we must ask ourselves if we are appreciating, respecting and honouring ourselves.
“To women of Solomon Islands, I say, you are the heartbeat of this nation. You are our strength. You are our resilience. You are our strong community.
You are the very reasons generations continue. Despite the challenges you face, you rise stronger and wiser and more determined than ever. So today we celebrate you.”
She stated that the National Council of Women pledges to work with stakeholders in this country and the government of Solomon Islands to create a world where women and girls are safe, valued and empowered.
Sogavare noted that we must remember that leadership and inclusion go hand in hand.
“By empowering women to lead and ensuring every single voice is heard, we can create a future where equality is not just a dream. It will become a reality.
On this International Women’s Day, let us stand together, united in our commitment to gender equality and empowerment for all women.”
For feedback, contact:[email protected]
