In the midst of social change and the growing struggle for gender equality, an important event was the formation of a women's forum in Kalamba village, Haharu subdistrict, East Sumba district, East Nusa Tenggara province. Kalamba has long been characterized by traditions, social norms and values with local wisdom, which sometimes limit women's potential in society. However, in recent years, a spirit of change has begun to grow among women in this village. They felt that the time had come to unite and build a platform that would give them a voice and power to overcome the problems they faced in everyday life.
The journey towards establishing a Women's Forum in the Village began with various discussions, meetings and consultations between village women. They share their life stories, the challenges they face, and their dreams about the changes they want to see in their communities. In this process, they felt how important it was to unite as one strong unit.
On March 29 2023, a meeting was held to establish the women's forum. There was one representative from the village government, one person from a traditional institution. One representative from the Bumi Lestari Institute, and fifteen traditional women from Kalamba village. The event for the formation of this women's forum was also facilitated by one of the field officers from the Bumi Lestari Institute. Anita Bomba Lapir was elected as chairman of the women's forum. Ahad Dai Mbana Matolang as secretary and Arni Tonda Mbitu as treasurer.
During the meeting, they agreed to establish a women's forum in Kalamba village as an official forum to address women's problems and promote gender equality. This women's forum will identify the assistance that goes to Kalamba village and ensure whether women's groups receive this assistance.
Then, hold a special meeting to discuss the results of their activities before entering the village deliberation. With the existence of this women's forum, it is hoped that it can answer the complaints and anxieties felt by other women who have not dared to speak out in every village deliberation forum.
