Founder and Director of Gizo Women in Business, Ms. Esther Tully Suti has called on women in Gizo to embrace self-reliance and economic independence, rather than depending on government assistance or their spouses.
Ms. Suti made the remarks during an exclusive interview with the media alongside her husband, following the formal recognition of community projects under the New Zealand–Funded Small Grants Initiative on Monday, 26 January 2026.
She was recognised as the grant recipient on behalf of the Gizo Women in Development Incorporated Trust Board, which will implement the construction of a climate-resilient Training and Downstream Processing Hall in Gizo.
Speaking after the ceremony, Ms. Suti said the project represents more than just infrastructure development, describing it as a pathway for women to gain skills, create income, and strengthen resilience against climate impacts.
“Women must stand on their own feet,” Ms. Suti said. “We cannot always wait for the government or rely on our husbands. With the right skills and opportunities, women can support their families and contribute meaningfully to our communities.”
She explained that the planned facility will provide training space and support value-adding activities, particularly for women involved in small-scale production and processing, while also being designed to withstand climate-related risks such as extreme weather.
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star, Honiara
