Women play a critical role in promoting transparency, accountability and community wellbeing in Solomon Islands’ mining communities, participants heard at a workshop in Honiara.
The workshop focused on strengthening women’s participation and voices in the extractive industries sector.
British High Commissioner Paul Turner, UNDP Pacific Office Resident Representative Munkhtuya Altangerel, and UN Resident Coordinator for Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu Dirk Wagener attended the workshop.
It brought together representatives from government, civil society organisations, students and other stakeholders.
The workshop was convened by the British High Commission and UNDP, with support from the Solomon Islands Government and in partnership with the Solomon Islands Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (SIEITI).
Participants explored ways to increase women’s participation in mining communities and strengthen their involvement in decisions affecting their lives and livelihoods.
Discussions focused on transparency and accountability in the extractive industries, community engagement and responsible management of natural resources.
Participants also examined practical ways to increase women’s involvement in Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) processes.
They discussed improving information sharing between stakeholders and communities in mining areas.
Turner highlighted the important role women play in promoting informed and resilient communities.
“The women are the eyes and ears for ensuring good governance in mining areas,” he said.
The workshop forms part of ongoing efforts by the British High Commission, UNDP, SIEITI and the Solomon Islands Government to promote inclusive participation.
It also aims to strengthen transparency and accountability in the management of Solomon Islands’ natural resources.
