The Western Provincial capital of Gizo will be busy this week as it hosts two major events that are bringing hundreds of participants.
The first is the National Healthy Settings Conference, which officially open on Monday at the MSG building. It will run until Friday, September 26.
The second is the United Church National Women’s Seminar, taking place at Saeragi village, West Gizo, throughout the week.
According to organizers, both events are expected to have a significant social and economic impact on Gizo, with visitors arriving from nearly every corner of the country.
Around 3,000 women from the United Church have already converged on Saeragi for the seminar, while more than 200 health officials and medical delegates representing the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, provincial health divisions, and partner organizations are attending the national conference.
Most of the women delegates began arriving on Friday, travelling onboard MV Pelican Express.
The influx created a festive atmosphere at Gizo wharf, where families, church groups, and supporters turned up to welcome their loved ones.
For the health conference, teams from nine provinces also travelled on the Pelican Express and plane, arriving the same day to a subdued yet warm reception.
A low-key welcoming ceremony for the health delegation was held in front of the MSG building on Friday evening.
Western Provincial Government (WPG) officials, church leaders, and representatives from local institutions have acknowledged the importance of the two simultaneous events, stressing that they not only promote spiritual growth and professional dialogue but also inject much-needed economic activity into the township.
Hotels, guest houses, canteens, and market vendors are reporting brisk business since the visitors began arriving.
The National Healthy Settings Conference will focus on strengthening health systems, promoting community wellbeing, and addressing challenges such as non-communicable diseases, sanitation, and the growing threat of new drugs in the country.
Presentations and workshops will be led by senior health officials, researchers, and policy advisers.
Meanwhile, the United Church National Women’s Seminar at Saeragi is expected to emphasize fellowship, empowerment, and the role of women in church and community leadership.
Programs will include daily devotions, training sessions, discussions on family and youth issues, and cultural exchanges between participants from different islands.
Security and logistics remain a challenge given the large number of attendees, however local police and community leaders have assured the public that measures are in place to ensure both events proceed smoothly.
With the two major gatherings happening at once, Gizo is expected to be packed and busy.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
