New Buala Market Boosts Economic Opportunities for Women Vendors in Solomon Islands

-

In the heart of Isabel Province, the new Buala Market is becoming a beacon for women’s economic empowerment in the Solomon Islands.

The project aims to strengthen economic opportunities for women vendors and people with disabilities through climate-resilient infrastructure and community-led design.

This week, Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, Hon. Cathy Nori, toured the new market site, and was inspired by what she saw.

“I’m impressed by the attention given to the needs of our many women who will use this market to increase their family income,” Minister Nori said. “These inclusive market facilities — showers, toilets, changing rooms — really set a new standard in the Solomon Islands.”

Investing in Women and Local Vendors

The new Buala Market is being delivered under Australia’s Provincial Markets Redevelopment Program, which focuses on boosting local jobs and economic growth through climate-resilient infrastructure in the Solomon Islands.

“Most vendors are women,” Hon. Nori added. “They need safe spaces that support them, their families, and our fishermen. I look forward to its completion and encourage our youth to help maintain this space for everyone.”

Solomon Islands–Australia Partnership at Work

Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said the market is one of many projects being delivered under the strong Australia–Solomon Islands Partnership.

“Australia has supported more than 30 projects in Isabel Province — roads, health centres, schools, solar energy. The new Buala Market shows how we deliver local content, creating jobs for Solomon Islanders,” Mr Hilton said. “This doubles the economic impact of our infrastructure investments.”

Local Jobs, Local Progress

Local contractor Tropic Group Builders has made strong progress. Project engineer Bronston Ramosea confirmed the floor and walls are nearly complete, with roofing and electrical work next.

“It’s going well,” Mr Ramosea said. “When it’s finished, this market will help so many local vendors and families in Buala.”

More Than a Market

When complete, the Buala Market will provide a safe, inclusive space for over 150 Solomon Islands women vendors, families, and people with disabilities. It’s a practical example of how community-driven development and partnerships can boost economic opportunities for women in Solomon Islands.

The new market will not only strengthen local livelihoods but also stand as a symbol of inclusive market facilities that raise the bar for communities nationwide.

Media Release | AHC 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Benjamin Afuga’s Journey as a Social Media Influencer

-
Image
Benjamin Afuga, a digital activist and community engagement leader in Honiara, Solomon Islands, inspires young people to leverage social media for positive change. As the founder and chief administrator of the Yumi Toktok Forum, Afuga’s journey from a passionate young man to a leading social media influencer showcases the potential for individuals to shape their communities using digital platforms. Benjamin Afuga, a digital activist and community engagement leader in the  Solomon Islands Afuga’s early life was deeply rooted in the rich culture and supportive community of the Solomon Islands. Influenced by the teachings of his parents, the church, family, friends, and the local community, he developed a passion for humanity and community engagement that set the stage for his future endeavors. “My journey into social media began with a desire to promote and share our wealth, unique culture, and voice with a wider audience. I realized the power of social media as a tool for posit...
Read more

Wendy Kealau: Bringing Global Insights Home from China’s E-Commerce Frontier

-
Image
For Wendy Kealau, a young Solomon Islands entrepreneur and the proud owner of Wendy’s Delicacy’s catering business, attending an international e-commerce seminar in Qingdao, China, was more than just a professional trip, it was a transformative journey that expanded her vision for local entrepreneurship. As a financial member of the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI), Wendy has been steadily carving out a name for herself in the local business scene. But her recent trip to China opened her eyes to new possibilities and offered powerful lessons in innovation, resilience, and the power of global thinking. “I wanted to understand how one of the world’s largest economies fosters innovation, scales businesses, and builds resilient infrastructure,” Wendy explained. “Being surrounded by entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders from all over the globe gave me a broader perspective on what’s possible for us here at home.” A Global View, A Local Heart Wendy’s exposure to Ch...
Read more

๐Ÿญ๐Ÿฏ ๐—ฌ๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ป๐—ด ๐—˜๐—ป๐˜๐—ฟ๐—ฒ๐—ฝ๐—ฟ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฒ๐˜‚๐—ฟ๐˜€ ๐—˜๐—ป๐—ต๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—ฒ ๐—–๐˜‚๐˜€๐˜๐—ผ๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ ๐—ฆ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐˜ƒ๐—ถ๐—ฐ๐—ฒ ๐—ฆ๐—ธ๐—ถ๐—น๐—น๐˜€ ๐˜„๐—ถ๐˜๐—ต ๐—”๐—ฃ๐—ง๐—–

-
Image
Thirteen young entrepreneurs from the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) have strengthened their business and customer service skills after completing a Collaborative Customer Care course with the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC). The training, facilitated by APTC and organized by YECSI, aimed to equip young business owners with essential customer service strategies. Nine young women business owners were among the 13 participants, reflecting the program’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. The two-day intensive training gave participants valuable insights into effective communication techniques, conflict resolution, and customer loyalty strategies—all crucial for delivering high-quality service and enhancing customer satisfaction. Wendy Kealau, owner of Ezen’s Catering, Fashion, Entertainment, and Tiamaria Pub (Red Door), highlighted the vital role YECSI plays in supporting young entrepreneurs and how the training has positively impacted parti...
Read more