SVSG Executive meeting with Canadian officials on joint project funded by the CFLI
Results from interim lessons and challenges learned on mental health and drug abuse in Samoan communities and schools were reviewed during the week.
Officials from the Canadian Fund For Local Initiatives (CFLI) did so on the joint project it funded in partnership with the Samoa Victim Support Group, SVSG.
The two-year initiative, is run by SVSG from 2025 to 2026, and aims to raise awareness and deliver interventions on these social challenges.
With 80% of project activities completed, discussions centered on the project’s impact among Nofotane women and secondary school communities across Upolu and Savaii.
These efforts target reducing stigma and providing essential support around mental health and drug abuse, which are contributing factors to violence.
A key part of the visit was observing a session at Vaimauga College, where Canadian representatives saw senior students actively participating in project activities.
SVSG, together with the Ministry of Police and Prisons and the GOSHEN Samoa Trust, facilitated the program, while CFLI officials observed engagement and outcomes.
SVSG President Siliniu Lina Chang expressed gratitude to the Canadian government and CFLI for their ongoing support.
She highlighted the importance of mental health and drug abuse prevention as priorities for SVSG, given their connection to rising violence.
President Chang also acknowledged the vital collaboration with the Police and GOSHEN Samoa Trust in delivering the project successfully.
This partnership, strengthened by CFLI’s ongoing support, is key to addressing the root causes of violence and improving community wellbeing in Samoa.
The visit coincided with the 16 Days of Activism campaign, reinforcing the project’s significance as Samoa works to eliminate violence and promote safer communities.
