PREPARATION for the annual 16 days of activism against gender-based violence campaign is progressing in Honiara.
The global campaign will run from November 25th to 10th of December this year.
“The Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs is the leading organiser of the national campaign,” chairperson Sarah Buka told the Solomon Star yesterday.
Ms Buka said, a committee chaired by the Ministry has been set up to prepare for the event.
The theme for this year is – “You, Me Stan Tugeda Fo Endim Vaelens,” which is based on creating awareness on the benefits of the Family Protection Act (FPA) and advocating for its commencement.
“The committee has approved that this theme: ‘You, Me Stan Tugeda Fo Endim Vaelens’ will support the FPA which is underway in its implementation stage,” Ms Buka said.
She added, that work is progressing well and they are anticipating a successful campaign.
Mr Buka said, that the media would also be promoting the upcoming campaign in the lead up to the official launch on the 25th of November and planned activities and programs would be reported on regularly.
Information would also be broadcasted through Vois Blo Mere Solomon weekly program at SIBC.
“This year’s 16 days of activism would be much bigger than the previous years, especially as the event would be also extending to provinces like, Choiseul, Western and Central provinces.”
Ms Buka added that more than 20 organisations and government agencies will be taking part in the campaign.
She said, during the programme there would be involvement of churches, private companies and business houses that would be invited to take part especially during the parade match which will be stage on 25th starting from Honiara City Council (HCC) car park area down to the national Art Gallery.
“We need your support from the public services, development partners, civil society organisations, private sector, churches and members of the women’s groups and everybody in this nation to support the campaign.
“The country’s Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare will be the guest of honour to open the event,” Ms Buka said.
By LESLEY SANGA
