Australia has reaffirmed its support for the Solomon Islands Women in Business Association, announcing further funding of more than SBD$3 million dollars for the organisation.
The funding was announced by the Australian High Commissioner Andrew Byrne this morning at the Mere’s Market, held at the Honiara Art Gallery grounds.
High Commissioner Byrne said the Australian Government is happy to support SIWIBA and its work to empower the women of Solomon Islands.
“Australia is proud to be a supporter of the Mere’s Market. We congratulate SIWIBA and its members for the work they do to make this event happen,” he said.
“It is an ideal location for women to showcase their businesses, create networks, share ideas and add to their incomes.”
“This market is just one of the ways that SIWIBA is helping to improve economic opportunities for women in Solomon Islands, where most women work in the informal sector to meet basic needs of their families.”
“In recognition of the valuable contribution that SIWIBA is making for women in Solomon Islands, I am pleased to announce that Australia is continuing its partnership with SIWIBA.
“We have just signed a new agreement that guarantees our financial support to SIWIBA for the next three years.”
Australia has supported SIWIBA since 2011. The current funding will assist SIWIBA to establish a business development centre for women entrepreneurs with a dedicated training coordinator and will also support the continuation of the Mere’s Market. In addition, Australia’s funding will also be used by SIWIBA to support savings clubs, develop newsletters and host an awards night to recognize and reward economic achievements of women.
SIWIBA has more than 400 registered members working in the formal and informal sectors in Solomon Islands.
Press Release: Australian High Commission, Solomon Islands