China donates 40 sewing machines to empower Solomon Islands women

​By Andrianah Kole

The Chinese Embassy in Solomon Islands has donated 40 sewing machines to the Government, marking International Women’s Day with a commitment to support women’s economic empowerment.

The equipment was handed over to the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs during a ceremony at the Chinese Embassy in Honiara on Wednesday.

Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Solomon Islands, Cai Weiming, said the donation is part of China’s broader support for livelihood programmes, scholarships and professional training in the country.

“Across the globe, women are pioneers, leaders and change-makers. Their contributions have shaped history and continue to drive our society forward,” Ambassador Cai said.

He said the sewing machines are intended to help women in both rural and urban communities start small tailoring businesses and strengthen household resilience.

Supervising Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, Choylin Yim Douglas, welcomed the donation, saying the machines will help women generate income and support their families.

​“This contribution will do more than just provide equipment. You are empowering them to support their households and generate income.”

She added that the equipment will be distributed across the provinces to strengthen household stability and create new livelihood opportunities for women.

The ceremony concluded with the formal signing of the handover documents.

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