The Democratic Coalition Government for Advancement (DCGA) conveys heartfelt congratulations to all women and girls throughout the country on International Women’s Day this week.

International Women’s Day is celebrated around the world on March 8 every year with plenty of activities celebrating the role of women in society and the value that they contribute to every family.

This year’s celebration is low key due to the challenges triggered by COVID-19 in the country.

However, this year’s International Women’s Day is about recognising and amplifying the important role our women and girls play in the current war against COVID 19.

The government had asked that on this special day, all citizens spare a thought and appreciate our female essential workers- doctors, nurses, agriculture, airport security, camp management, customs & excise, Correctional and police officers, teachers and others whose rights are being sacrificed to protect all of us and our nation in this time of COVID 19 community transmission.

These women and girls sacrificed their lives so that we can be assured of our safety in this Community transmission.

The Democratic Coalition Government for Advancement (DCGA) also recognised the important leadership roles played by women, that being said, DCGA is the only government in the history of the country to have four female Parliamentarians.

Of the four female parliamentarians, two are government ministers and the other two are government backbenchers with various roles in cabinet sub- committees and parliamentary committees.

The DCGA also appointed women Permanent Secretaries in a number of key ministries which include the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Ministry of Planning and Aid Coordination and the Ministry of Police and National Security.

Placing women in leadership roles demonstrates government’s commitment to gender equality and most important of all, recognising women in contributing to the overall development of the country.

The National Government further acknowledge our women and girls who may not be physically at the frontline in this war against COVID 19.

Your roles in our society, be it house wives or others are equally important as we stand in Unity and Solidarity to battle the perils of COVID 19.

It is therefore particularly important that Solomon Islanders uphold the resilience and togetherness we are known for.

This Government is focused, devoted and vigilant in our fight against COVID-19.

The fact that the current community transmission trend is reversed in a very short timeframe is a testament that our determination is stronger than ever before and our resolve never wavered.

This Government strives to take drastic and proactive measures to protect our citizens while at the same time keeping our economy afloat.

The National Government sends its warmest greetings to all women and girls throughout the country on this year’s International Women’s Day.

Source: GCU