THE MINISTER for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs Mr Jimson Tanagada has commended the work and efforts of the West Are’are Rokotanikeni Association (WARA).
Speaking during the opening of the group’s 16th Annual General Meeting on Tuesday Mr Tanagada said he was impressed and ‘extremely’ interested in the groups theme ‘Celebrating growth in savings and membership’.
“It’s a very fitting theme indeed.”
He said that since taking up the portfolio, he has been notified of the many efforts and ideas of different partners and stakeholders in improving the status of women in Solomon Islands one of which is the increase in the number of savings clubs around the country and the important emphasis on savings.
“It is on this note that I would like to offer on behalf of my ministry our very sincere congratulations to the West Are‘are Rokotanikeni Association on your achievements particularly the growth in your savings and membership.
“I am inspired to be informed that the West Are‘are Rokotanikeni Association is what we often say ‘home grown’ – is rural based and was not donor driven (promote independence and sustainability),” Mr Tanagada said.
He added that he was inspired by the success story of the women’s savings association.
“I personally am inspired by this very success story.
“These success stories only goes to reiterate the importance of improving the economic status of women in the Solomon Islands.
“And I want to assure the women and girls present here today that this is a policy priority of the Solomon Islands Government,” the Member of Parliament for Gizo/Kolombangara said.
Meanwhile, the Minister congratulates the West Are’are Rokotanikeni Association for their achievements and their very valuable contribution to the economic growth and development of the country.
By RONALD FLIER TOITO’ONA
