HONIARA, Solomon Islands – The Minister for Women, Youth, Children, and Family Affairs, Hon. Cathy Nori, has reaffirmed the Solomon Islands Government’s commitment to sustainable management and development of the country’s marine and coastal resources.
Speaking at the opening of the Coral Triangle Initiative (CTI)-CFF Women Leaders Forum Regional Exchange, Threatened Species Workshop, and the Bismarck Solomon Seas Ecoregion Dialogue in Honiara today, Minister Nori emphasized the importance of inclusive governance and community participation in achieving sustainable outcomes.
“The programs are aimed at addressing the critical issues we continue to face – such as the loss of marine biodiversity, negative impacts of climate change, unsustainable development, poverty, food insecurities – whilst advancing equitable access to opportunities and benefits for the most vulnerable, at-risk and most marginalized sector of our communities – the women, youth, children, people living with disabilities, and the elderly,” Minister Nori said.
She highlighted the critical role women play in coastal resource management and the need to address gaps in representation, access to finance, and training for women, youth, and disability-led initiatives.
“In Solomon Islands, this is critical, as women and girls make up nearly half of the population and are key stewards of our seas – contributing to fisheries and community-based resource management and coastal livelihoods from village to policy levels,” Minister Nori stated.
The Minister also urged the CT6 governments and the Regional Secretariat to remain inclusive and strategic in their work, strengthening efforts in promoting and advancing women, youth, and community leadership.
“Let us leave at the end of the week, with clear commitments, renewed collaboration, and a concrete set of steps that advance sustainable stewardship and inclusive leadership across all levels and sectors,” Minister Nori concluded.
The CTI-CFF regional gathering, which brings together governments, development partners, NGOs, and community leaders, aims to promote sustainable stewardship and inclusive leadership in the Coral Triangle region.
Minister Nori expressed gratitude to development partners, including the Coral Triangle Center, WWF, and Wildlife Conservation Society, for their financial support in hosting the regional events.
The Government of Solomon Islands reaffirms its commitment to maximizing the social-cultural, economic, and ecological benefits of the country’s Coral Triangle home.
The CTI-CFF Women Leaders Forum Regional Exchange will run for a week, providing a platform for peer-learning, networking, and knowledge sharing among women leaders in marine and coastal resource management.
The CTI-CFF regional gathering hosted by the Solomon Islands Government aims to promote sustainable stewardship and inclusive leadership in the Coral Triangle region, focusing on marine conservation and resource management goals.
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