BY JOY OFASIA
Western Province is facing major challenges in awareness programs on gender equality, gender-based violence, and related protection issues. This was highlighted by the Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) for Western Province Ward 4, Hon Ron Ghemu, during a press conference held at the Family Support Centre national GBV sensitization training in Honiara last week.
Hon Ghemu said one of the biggest problems is the lack of province-wide awareness programs that explain gender equality, Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention, and the legal support systems available for victims. He said many people in rural communities do not fully understand where to report cases or how to access help when violence occurs.
“People need to know the law and the support pathways. At the moment, this information is not reaching all our islands,” the Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) said.
He also raised concern about the high cost of accessing services. Many communities in Western Province are spread across remote islands, making travel expensive and difficult for victims seeking help.
“These services exist, but it is very costly for our people because of distance between islands and transport costs,” Hon Ghemu said.
Another challenge he mentioned is the lack of strong resources and funding support from government and partners. He said gender equality and GBV programs are not yet fully prioritised at community level.
He added that the province is now looking at practical solutions. “We plan to work with our women’s desk officer to include these programs in the provincial budget and ensure they reach all wards,” he said.
Hon Ghemu also said they will seek support from stakeholders and from the Ministry of Women, Children, Youth and Family Affairs Ministry of Women, Children, Youth and Family Affairs to strengthen coordination and funding.
As part of the way forward, he said women representatives in Ward Development Committees will be trained to identify and respond to GBV cases early.
“These trained women reps can help identify victims in their communities, provide basic counselling support, and refer them for further help,” he said.
Hon Ghemu said the goal is to ensure every ward in Western Province Western Province has better awareness, stronger support systems, and safer reporting pathways for victims of violence.
Hon Ghemu said continued collaboration with communities is essential to reduce violence and build safer, informed and supportive islands across the province together.
