The Bougainville Women’s Federation (BWF) held its 2020 Annual General Meeting (AGM) last month – the first since being officially recognised by a parliamentary Act in June this year.
The meeting held in Bana District, South Bougainville - brought together BWF representatives from across the region to learn, collaborate and strengthen BWF as the body overseeing the interests of women in Bougainville.
Participants at the meeting agreed to launch the BWF Act in 2021 and raise awareness about the Federation increasing its membership and outreach to communities.
The BWF aims to promote and coordinate women’s groups – including district women’s federations – and network with broader Pacific women’s organisations.
BWF President Priscilla Bisiro said having the Bougainville Federations Act 2020 passed is a big achievement for the Federation.
“We are happy that the federation has been officially recognised by the House of Representatives because we feel that we have that support now from our government to move forward with our plans to create opportunities for our women to participate and contribute in all levels in our region,” said Mrs Bisiro.
She said this year’s AGM theme reflected the federation’s objectives.
“The theme for this year’s Annual General Meeting was ‘Niupla Wokabout Blong Meri Bougainville’ – focused on strengthening existing women empowerment approaches and creating more opportunities for our women.”
The BWF Act 2020 was developed with support from Papua New Guinea-Australia Partnership and the New Zealand government under the Bougainville Partnership Program.
The Bougainville Partnership Progam continues to have a positive impact on women in the Bougainville through a range of projects related to economic participation and water, sanitation and hygiene.
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Bougainville Women’s Federation at their annual general meeting