Outcome SLB_D_2.5

Women market vendors have the ability to succeed and advance economically

Supportive and enabling marketplace environments are empowering women market vendors in the Solomon Islands to thrive and advance economically. This has included the institutionalising of policies and practices that are addressing gender biases in the markets and promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women. In 2022, the development of the public market ordinances, and the implementation of established ongoing SOPs and other marketplace plans are ensuring women market vendors’ inclusion and protection. In addition, enhanced gender-responsive capacities of duty bearers such as local governments and market management at the point of day-to-day market operations are creating experiences for women market vendors where they feel safe, secure, content and empowered to participate in market activities (apart from selling their goods and produce). This includes leading market vendor associations, actively participating and speaking at market meetings and claiming their rights. Membership of MVAs have also given women market vendors access to information, resources and goods to further progress their economic participation and growth.