MORE than fifty nine (59) local women market vendors in and around Auki had nothing but praise toward the UN women’s market for change workshop held in Auki on Monday.
The workshop was aimed at ensuring that public market areas are safe for all women vendors and also free from discrimination.
Speaking on yesterday’s workshop session, the most notable feedback received were that women vendors now know their responsibilities and their rights whenever in public market premises mostly dominated by men.
“I now know the importance of markets to women empowerment, gender equality and poverty reduction.
“Also the importance of maintaining a safe, healthy environment free of discrimination and segregation toward women,” were the most common responses from the first day of the workshop.
Speaking to this paper also, national project coordinator Puairana Gaylyn said they hope at the end of the three days, all participants will be better equipped with knowledge that would safeguard them from discrimination in market areas.
The workshop is expected to end this week.
By WILLIAM EKOTANI
In Auki
