On February 11, 2025, a delegation from the European Union (EU), led by Mr. Dirk Homann (Head of Finance and Contracts), along with Mr. Geshneel Verma (Financial Officer) and Mr. Gianluca Vannini (Programme Manager), met with SVSG to evaluate the progress of the Nofotane Samoa Social Enterprise (NSSE) project in its first year.
The project focuses on sustainable income generation and self-employment for Nofotane women. To continue empowering these women economically, SVSG successfully applied for funding from the European Commission to transition the Nofotane Program into a social enterprise. The NSSE project aims to contribute to six Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through an innovative approach to addressing gender-based violence against Nofotane women in Samoa:
- No Poverty – Ensuring a steady income and improved living standards for Nofotane women and their families.
- Good Health and Well-being – Promoting healthier lives and an enhanced quality of life for Nofotane women and their families.
- Quality Education – Providing access to formal, non-formal, and informal learning opportunities for Nofotane women.
- Gender Equality – Ensuring that Nofotane women are recognized within their homes, communities, and workplaces.
- Decent Work and Economic Growth – Empowering Nofotane women to contribute to the Samoan economy.
- Reduced Inequalities – Establishing a national network of Nofotane women with a collective voice against inequality.
The EU team visited the SVSG Nofotane stores at the main office and in the villages of Luatuanuu, Siumu, and Faleasi’u. The women involved in the project were overjoyed to meet the EU delegation and expressed their gratitude for the support provided. Many highlighted that the project has been instrumental in helping them support their families, cover their children’s school fees, and overcome financial hardships. Additionally, the initiative has encouraged personal development, enabling them to acquire new skills and achieve sustainable income.
The SVSG President and the entire organization would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the EU for its support and continued dedication to the Nofotane community. Your generous contributions have been instrumental in empowering women and creating opportunities for self-employment and sustainable income. With your support, we can tackle critical social issues like gender-based violence and uplift families in need. We are truly grateful for your ongoing partnership and look forward to working together to build a more resilient community.
