The Samoa Victim Support Group has begun a series of nine community workshops in the Aiga i le Tai constituency aimed at raising awareness about gender-based violence and the support available to affected families.
The first workshop was held in Mulifanua on Monday, bringing together community members from Mulifanua, Fuailoloo, Lalovi, Samea and Paepaeala.
SVSG introduced its community project and explained the services it provides to support and protect women, children and families affected by gender-based violence.
Photos: SVSG Samoa
The discussions focused on Christian values and were held in partnership with village leaders, including the Ali‘i and Faipule, and the wider community.
SVSG thanked Reverend Hemi, the faletua and the traditional leaders of Mulifanua for supporting open discussions about protecting women and children, preventing violence and strengthening families.
The organisation also reminded community members that seeking help should not be viewed as a sign of weakness.
“Through partnership, awareness and support, we can create safer homes and communities for everyone,” SVSG said.
Representatives from the Ministry of Police and Prisons and the Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration are expected to participate in the second day of the programme.
The two government agencies will explain the support and assistance available through their respective services and their partnership with SVSG.
SVSG said cooperation between families, village leaders, government agencies and support organisations was important in preventing gender-based violence and building safer communities.
This story is based on information published by the Samoa Victim Support Group.
