THE quest to press for progress towards gender equality is everyone’s’ business and in everyone’s’ interest.
That was a statement made in a key note address by Honourable FredaTuki, Minister for woman Youth, Children and family Affairs.
She was speaking to hundreds of women during the Women’s International Day celebration yesterday at the National Museum Auditorium.
“Today we stand in solidarity-with women and men around the world to press for progress towards gender equality.
She said in our nation today, we have witnessed great progress in women advancing what only could be dreamt of by previous generation.
“From the informal to the formal sector women have succeeded in their own areas of profession and aspirations”.
She said this year’s theme ‘Press for progress’ signifies a motivational movement of gender advocates and gender sensitised institutions and organisations that have paved a way for women to excel and grow in enterprise in career and in leadership, where women who have been encouraged to pursue career in the non- traditional fields for female, and where policies and practices are now recognising the valuable contribution of women in the workforce and in the business world.
“There are many great achievements already made by our local women, past and present.
“For women who are trail blazers and women who have broken through the glass ceiling to be successful in their profession and aspirations, I am honoured and inspired by their achievement.
“We have seen the government fostering partnership with the private sector, and the private sector having a strong shift in institutionalising gender.
“Press for progress towards gender equality is everyone’s business and in everyone’s interest.
“I am pleased that we are seeing improved outcomes for women in the private sector becoming more skilled and engaged for efficiency in their work place.”
Ms Tuki stated the opportunities for women are now expanding as never before.
“I would like to mention the good work of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) working together with our Chamber of Commerce Industry to promote women empowerment and gender equality in the workforce.
“Although I have not specifically mentioned some of the strong partners and friends who have supported Solomon Islands to achieving its gender commitments, I thank you with a deep sense of gratitude and at this juncture, I would like to call upon all stakeholders from government, business, Civil Society and the media to engage in collective actions.
“This is to foster an enabling business and financial climate for women entrepreneurs, to eliminate structural barriers, to take concrete actions through strategic policies and partnerships, to create new and innovative opportunities for women-owned businesses to thrive and grow”.
The Minister said reform in women’s empowerment is challenging one, an area that is particularly challenging is women’s leadership.
“At the political level, I am the only women MP in the current government. I hope more women stand in the next election because this challenge is not unique to Solomon Islands itself, but it is a global and regional challenge too.”
Ms Tuki then congratulated men and women, girls and boys who have supported the quest for gender equality.
“Our theme for this year is clear, press for progress –forging onwards.”
She urged every woman to make use of the available resources and the opportunity in front of them to promote gender equality and women empowerment in the country.
She also took the opportunity to thank the Government of Australia for their support towards many of the programs for women, children and families to improve on their lives.
By LYNNISSHA RUNA
