BY JOY OFASIA
DURING the International Women’s Day celebrations in Honiara, Lilly Tafoa Funakwanga, Managing Director at AVIV Design Printing and Construction, shared her insights on women’s rights and gender equality in the Solomon Islands.
While acknowledging the progress made, she highlighted the ongoing challenges that hinder full gender equality.
“There has been progress in the Solomon Islands regarding women’s rights, but cultural practices, legal gaps, limited economic opportunities, and gender-based violence continue to hinder women’s full participation in society,” Lilly said in an exclusive interview with the SOLOMON WOMEN.
Lilly stressed that significant improvements are needed, particularly in education, economic opportunities, and the enforcement of laws. She also spoke about the importance of fundamental rights for women.
“Fundamental rights for us women are very important—where we have equality, justice, and the freedom to do whatever we would like to do,” she stated.
She went on to explain that empowering women benefits society as a whole, stating, “When women are empowered, societies are generally more peaceful, prosperous, and equitable.”
Lilly believes that gender equality should be at the core of any society that values fairness and justice, and she urges continued efforts to ensure that women’s rights are fully protected and celebrated.
