WOMEN and girls living with disability face a double burden according to the Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs.
Speaking during the International Women’s Day celebration on Tuesday, Jimson Tana said those people are not only regarded as passive victims but by their very nature and form.
The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day was ‘Empowering women and girls of Solomon islands – Making it happen’.
Mr Tana said women and girls living with disability are not recognised and valued by many in the society.
He also highlighted some issues women and girls in the Solomon Islands continue to faced or experienced in different forms of violence.
“The voice of women and girls is missing from the decision making tables at all levels and limited access by women and girls to basic health services, justice, and education and business opportunities are some.
“These are issues which continue to stare us in the face on a daily basis,” he said.
He said although the government has the necessary policy and planning frameworks established to address many of these issues, policies and plans alone cannot make things happen.
“Rather it is the responsibility of all citizens of this country to make things happen.
“We must recognise and be committed to this noble undertaking to ensuring that we are all treated equally and fairly and are given the privilege to be developed at our full potential.”
Tuesday’s event was highlighted with speeches, entertainments and stall information displays that involve stakeholders.
By TRIXIE CARTER
