Foreign Affairs Minister Lenora Qereqeretabua highlighted the unique solidarity among women leaders in conflict zones during the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Apia, Samoa. Speaking at a women’s forum, she emphasized the importance of communication among women in these areas, indicating that despite regional conflicts, there exists a supportive network among them.
Qereqeretabua noted that many challenges faced by women across the Commonwealth are similar, stressing the need for women to uplift and encourage one another to pursue leadership roles. She remarked, “It’s encouraging that women leaders in conflict areas can communicate, showcasing that despite national disputes, women can connect across borders.”
She further stated that facilitating younger women to step into leadership positions is vital. “What we can learn is how women from different sectors of the community can support each other, allowing younger women to take on leadership roles that older women might be ready to pass on.”
Her comments underscore the empowering potential of women’s alliances in enhancing representation and leadership, even in the midst of conflict.