The Women's Saving Club was developed as the micro-finance component of a fisheries project.

It looks at ways the income and food security of the fishing communities can be improved in Gizo.

It is funded by WWF (Working Women's Forum) Australia, Australian Aid and John West Australia.

The WWF Solomon Islands country manager, Shannon Seeto says there are very few opportunities for local women, especially in rural areas.

In the first phase of the project women are trained and begin making contributions.

In the last six months the women have contributed a total amount of 80,000 Solomon dollars.

The next phase of the project will begin at the end of June.

It will provide and build capacity for the local women to manage a business, start a business, carry out basic accounting.

Source

• Radio New Zealand International
• Radio Australia International
• Image: GlobalEducation.edu.au