BY JOY OFASIA
DURING the 40th Guadalcanal Province 2nd Appointed Day celebrations, Miss Guadalcanal Ezinma K. Kausua, a contestant for the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant 2024, highlighted the crucial roles women play within families and communities.
In her speech, she emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of women and youth in the province.
“Women are like glue which knits our families together. They are peacemakers, with the charm to calm community conflicts,” Miss Guadalcanal said.
She noted that mothers serve as the first teachers, tailors, nurse aides, chefs, and most trusted counselors, as well as skilled farmers who sustain food supplies.
“They plan and cook our daily meals, raise livestock for school fees, and increasingly become breadwinners. They shed tears and sweat to support their families,” she added.
Despite their contributions, Miss Guadalcanal pointed out that women are often deprived of their rights to participate inclusively in Guadalcanal society. She called for the realization of themes promoting gender equality and empowerment, which she has championed in recent years.
“We don’t have to look far to see rising issues affecting women and youths in Guadalcanal today that need proactive measures to solve,” she said, highlighting domestic violence, anti-social behavior, and disrespect towards women and elders as pressing concerns.
Miss Guadalcanal stressed the need to address land disputes and tribal conflicts, which disproportionately affect women and children.
“Women deserve our respect,” she said, urging for greater gender inclusiveness and good governance in the province’s development goals.
