The Solomon Islands National Council of Women, after nine years, held their Annual General Meeting. The SINCW was established in 1983 as an autonomous non-government organisation (NGO) to represent women and address issues of concern to them. It is the national umbrella NGO body for women, and the political forum for advancement of women within which they can speak out on issues that affect them. The SINCW encourages women’s participation in decision-making processes. Over the years, SINCW was not able to abide by the general rules under the Charitables Act and faced a risk of losing their annual grant support from the National Government after being vocal on the security agreement the government has with the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The government gave an ultimatum to SINCW to carry out its Annual General Meeting and to adhere to the rules under the Charitable Act if it wants to continue as an organisation supporting women in the country. With support from OXfam, SINCW was able to carry out its AGM and made amendments to its constitution as well. Following the AGM the following are elected into the SINCW Executive.
President – Ms. Afulia Billy
Vice President – Kristina Sogavare
Secretary – Marisa Pepa
Treasurer – Merbilyn Pitunga
Ordinary Members – Grace Hilly, Rachel (SINTA) and Donna Makini
