As the world mark International Women's Day today, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) has held its Women’s Advisory Network (WAN) Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Honiara.

The two-day meeting commenced on Wednesday and brings together female
officers from across Honiara and the provinces. It provides a platform for
discussions and reflections on the RSIPF's steps in promoting gender equality
within its ranks.

The meeting has been organised by the RSIPF WAN and is supported by the
RSIPF-AFP Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP).

The RSIPF WAN is celebrating its 20 th year having been established in 2004.
The WAN is an important component in the RSIPF’s continued efforts to
improve the opportunities and outcomes for women in policing both within
Solomon Islands and the broader Pacific. The conference brings together
RSIPF females to shape the future of the RSIPF and ensure it is an
organisation where women can thrive.

It has been five years since the last WAN AGM was held in 2019. Disruptions
caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, internal unrest and operational priorities
have prevented meetings being held in recent years.

RSIPF Supervising Commissioner, Ian Vaevaso, delivered the keynote
address at the opening of the AGM and used the opportunity to praise the
resilience of RSIPF women leaders.

Supervising Commissioner Vaevaso encouraged female officers in
attendance to serve as beacons for their peers, especially the younger
recruits.

He highlighted RSIPF Commissioner Mostyn Mangau’s role as the Executive
Lead of the Pacific Island Chiefs of Police (PICP) WAN, and commitment to
women's participation and gender equity within the RSIPF and the broader
region.

Supervising Commissioner Vaevaso reflected on a number of achievements
made by the RSIPF's WAN including the establishment of a Sexual Assault
Unit, deployment of women across various RSIPF departments and units,
training opportunities, promotions and the implementation of policies
addressing pregnancy, sexual harassment and gender issues.

He said the presence of women in frontline and specialist roles within the
RSIPF, crime scenes, firearms and tactical units, police maritime, criminal
investigation, traffic and fire services demonstrates women’s capability.

AFP Acting Commander Solomon Islands Clinton Smith also spoke at the
opening, acknowledging RSIPF as a leader in promoting gender inclusion.

Acting Commander Smith also said the importance and value of the
conference cannot be underestimated as it brings the RSIPF women together
to shape the future of the RSIPF and ensure it is an organisation where
women can reach their full potential in a supportive environment.

RSIPF Supervising Commissioner Vaevaso thanked the RAPPP for their
ongoing support to the RSIPF WAN.

Source: Press Release