Women Leading the Way in Construction at Malu’u Market

Across Solomon Islands, more women are stepping into technical and vocational careers and helping reshape industries traditionally dominated by men.

As the country celebrates International Women’s Day, their growing leadership highlights the important role skills training plays in creating new opportunities and strengthening communities.

At the construction site of the new Malu’u Market, Edna Iro is one of the women helping lead this change.

Edna works as the Health and Safety Officer for local contractor Exodus Trade and Development, where she is responsible for ensuring safety on site while also mentoring workers recruited from nearby communities.

Originally from Malu’u, Edna says she is proud to contribute to a project that will benefit families and local businesses.

“Once complete, this market will provide families with a safe and reliable place to sell their goods and earn income,” Edna said.

The new market is supported by the Australian High Commission in Solomon Islands as part of Australia’s commitment to building quality, inclusive and sustainable infrastructure across Solomon Islands.

Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach said Edna’s leadership demonstrates the importance of ensuring women have access to skills training and opportunities in construction.

“Australia is supporting women like Edna to get hands on training and accreditation in construction to help more women step into leadership roles on infrastructure projects in Solomon Islands.”

“Edna is a shining light for young women interested in helping to build their community and develop their country,” High Commissioner Roach said.

Edna’s work also reflects Australia’s “local first” approach to infrastructure development in Solomon Islands—prioritising local contractors and local workers in major projects.

“Our local content approach not only builds the markets, roads and other critical infrastructure needed to boost the economy, but also deliberately creates opportunities for Solomon Islanders to take the lead,” High Commissioner Roach said.

“Today, most of our projects are being delivered by local contractors employing a diverse Solomon Islands workforce.”

As one of the few women working in construction in her community, Edna overcomes challenges by communicating clearly with workers on site, often using her local language to ensure safety messages are understood.

With International Women’s Day being celebrated across the country this week, she encouraged young women interested in construction to pursue practical skills and believe in their abilities.

“Women have an important role to play in building Solomon Islands’ infrastructure, supporting our families, and helping develop the country.”

The Malu’u Market project forms part of Australia’s ongoing commitment to supporting infrastructure that strengthens communities and local economies.

Early construction works have begun, while a separate community-led initiative is preparing to plant mangroves and coastal trees to help protect the shoreline in front of the market.

Once completed next year, the climate-resilient market will provide a safe and reliable place for vendors, many of them women, to sell their produce and earn income, further supporting livelihoods in Malu’u and surrounding communities.