West coast women’s conference on climate justice advocacy
Women from the west coast communities of the island at the conference last Friday | Photo credits: Jamal Talagi-Veidreyaki
A women’s conference titled as the “Women of West Coast Communities Climate Justice Advocacy” aimed at a gendered approach to understanding the impacts of climate change and gender based violence took place last Friday at the Scenic Matavai Resort.
According to project coordinator Jamal Talagi-Veidreyaki, approximately 50 women from the west coast of the island attended the conference.
“The objective on Friday was to share the message with women of west coast, and to gift the women’s group $1000 each. Also encouraging them to share their disaster stories,” says Jamal.
Some of the key objectives discussed at the conference include raising awareness, building capacity with the women and achieving overall cohesion to address climate change adaptation.
The conference was opened by keynote speaker Makefu Village Council Chairperson Etaena Poihega and Jamal gave an overview of the project. Guest speakers included Rossy Mitiepo, Robin Hekau, and online were Associate Professor Dr. Jemaima Tiatia and team, and Erin Thomas of ICAAD.
Jamal says she is very grateful for all the support for the Makefu Falekaho-Atua women.
The conference was conducted under the climate justice advocacy project of the Makefu Falekaho-Atua women which is funded by the United Nations Women. The main body of authority for the project is the Makefu Village Council.
