A significant milestone was reached today in Vailima with the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Goshen Trust Mental Health Facility. The ceremony, a vivid symbol of Samoa’s commitment to mental health and wellbeing, was attended by notable figures, including Minister of Health Valasi Luapitofanua To’ogamaga Tafito Selesele.
Goshen Trust, established in 2009, has been at the forefront of providing independent mental health services in Samoa. The Trust collaborates closely with the Ministry of Health’s Mental Health Unit, focusing on the rehabilitation and community reintegration of mental health patients.
The need for the new facility at Vailima stems from the ongoing challenges posed by climate change, necessitating safer and more resilient infrastructure. The existing facilities in Moamoa are vulnerable to flooding, making the relocation a critical step for the Trust.
This development is primarily funded by the Government of Japan through the Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP), which supports small-scale projects that significantly impact at the grassroots level. This initiative is a part of Japan’s commitment to aiding socio-economic development in Samoa.
The planned two-storey facility, funded by a grant of USD 170,975 (approximately WST 445,000), will be a comprehensive mental health center. It will include essential facilities like a large room, an office, a consultation room, toilets, basins, shower rooms, and 16 bedrooms, all designed to offer extensive mental health services such as rehabilitation programs and vocational training.
The Government of Samoa, recognising the critical importance of bolstering mental health services, has generously allocated land for this new facility. In his address, Minister Valasi Luapitofanua To’ogamaga Tafito Selesele emphasised that this move reflects the government’s commitment to providing long-term support for those grappling with mental health challenges.
During the ceremony, the Minister expressed deep gratitude to the Government of Japan for funding the project and to the Government of Samoa for providing the land. He also acknowledged the contributions of Afioga Moala Tavita Panoa, Taimalie Charlie Westerlund, the Ministry of MNRE, the local community, and the dedicated team and supporters who have played a vital role in this project.
Minister Valasi underlined the social responsibility towards mental health, stating the investment in the facility is not just for the Goshen Trust but for the wellbeing and prosperity of the Samoan nation. He praised the Goshen Trust for its unwavering commitment to mental health and urged collective efforts to lay the foundation for a future where mental health is a priority, offering hope and resilience to the people of Samoa.
