Guadalcanal women farmers have been advised to temporarily withdraw from trading at the Honiara Central Market following rising safety and security concerns, according to a notice issued by the Guadalcanal Provincial Council of Women (GPCW) on 6 June 2026.
The decision comes after a series of reported incidents involving harassment, intimidation, and most recently, the alleged assault of a Guadalcanal woman farmer on 26 June 2026. The farmer sustained injuries after being pushed while attempting to access her market space, prompting urgent calls for improved protection for genuine women farmers.
During the withdrawal period from 9–11 July 2026, Guadalcanal women farmers are instructed not to bring or sell produce at the Honiara Central Market. Alternative trading arrangements have been set:
• Corona Market — for women farmers from Eastern and Central Guadalcanal
• Mamara Market — for women farmers from Western Guadalcanal
GPCW will use this period to submit a formal petition to the Honiara City Council, calling for stronger market security, fair treatment, and safer trading conditions for all women farmers.
The Council is urging full cooperation from Guadalcanal women farmers, emphasizing that unity is essential in advocating for a safer and more secure market environment.
