120626 Historic Move: 135 Central Bougainville Ward Cooperatives to Affiliate with Bougainville Women’s Federation in 2027

A total of 135 ward-based women’s cooperatives across Central Bougainville are set to affiliate with the Bougainville Women’s Federation (BWF) in 2027, in a landmark initiative aimed at strengthening women’s participation in community development and economic empowerment across the region.

The announcement was made by the Autonomous Bougainville Government Member for Central Bougainville Women, Honourable Theresa Baranangko MHR, during the re-election of Central Bougainville regional president and the induction workshop for the executives of BWF-affiliated women’s groups held at the Koromira Rainbow Centre on Wednesday, 10 June 2026.

Hon. Baranangko said the initiative is designed to create a stronger platform for women at the grassroots level to engage with BWF programs, access support services, and contribute more effectively to the social and economic development of their communities.

She explained that the ward cooperatives under the Central Bougainville Women’s Cooperative Foundation are a part of her broader vision for a united, economically empowered, and self-reliant Central Bougainville, where women are at the forefront of inclusive growth, sustainable livelihoods, and community-driven development.

The initiative is driven by the Member’s commitment to ensuring that no woman is left behind. This vision inspired the establishment of the Central Bougainville Women’s Cooperative Foundation, which seeks to create opportunities and pathways for every woman in Central Bougainville to participate in economic and social development.

Addressing women leaders from across the region, Hon. Baranangko congratulated the newly elected Central Bougainville Regional President, Ms Lailah Komanos and acknowledged BWF President Madam Barbara Tanne for the Federation’s continued efforts in uniting and empowering women throughout Bougainville.

She commended the Federation for creating opportunities for women to develop their leadership skills, strengthen their voices, and actively contribute to the future development of Bougainville.

The Member further explained that the cooperative framework is intended to establish a practical and sustainable structure that ensures women at the grassroots level are included, organized, supported, and empowered to improve their livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Under the proposed model, each ward cooperative will work closely with the Bougainville Women’s Federation, creating stronger linkages between women at the village level and regional development initiatives.

The affiliation is expected to enhance coordination, information sharing, capacity building, and access to economic opportunities for women throughout Central Bougainville.

The planned affiliation of the 135 ward cooperatives in 2027 marks a significant step towards strengthening the women's movement in Central Bougainville and advancing the collective goal of empowering women as key drivers of sustainable development and economic growth.