The Australian Government has announced an investment of more than $46million over the next three years in gender equality.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton officially launched this new investment on Tuesday, as part of the Solomon Islands – Australia Gender Equality Partnership.
High Commissioner Hilton said the investment, Advancing Gender Equality in the Solomon Islands, would continue strengthening women’s leadership, increasing women’s economic empowerment and ending violence against women.
Under the new investment, Australia will continue to support the Women’s Rights Action Movement (WRAM), through the International Women’s Development Agency, and the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, to introduce reserved seats for women in Provincial Government and accelerate the number of women entering politics.
Building on Phase I of the UN Women ‘Markets for Change’ project, Australia will fund Phase II, which ensures more marketplaces across the Solomon Islands become safer and more inclusive – promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment across the country.
Australia will also continue to support the Safenet Referral Network for survivors and victims of gender-based violence, and response services, such as Family Support Centre, Seif Ples and Christian Care centre, which is complemented by the Pacific Women Lead programs.
To further strengthen Australia’s support to Solomon Islands, the Australia Awards inaugural Alumni Women’s Award, to recognise outstanding alumnae who have made significant contributions in their respective fields, announced Ms Lorah Kwainarara as this year’s winner.
Australia is supporting the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs to host a three-day event, from 11th March to 13th March at the National Auditorium, including a charity drive to purchase wheelchairs for the Gynaecological Ward at the National Referral Hospital.
- AHC
