Press Release/

Apia, Samoa – 26 August 2025: The Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG) has entered into a milestone partnership with the Fono Faavae of Sagaga 2, in a community-based approach to address and prevent gender-based violence in Samoa.

The parties yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) attended by representatives from the villages of Afega, Malie, and Tuanai, that formalizes the commitment of all parties to work together under the L.A.C.I.E Project. This is a four-year initiative funded by the United Nations Trust Fund that adopts a holistic, community-based approach to addressing and preventing gender-based violence in Samoa.

Recognizing the importance of village leadership in sustainable change, the Sagaga 2 former Member of Parliament, Maulolo Tavita Amosa requested that his constituency be included in the project.

The partnership therefore brings together SVSG, the Fono Faavae of Sagaga 2 in ensuring that the voices and strengths of the three villages are central to the project’s implementation.

Through this collaboration, the villages of Afega, Malie, and Tuana’i will benefit from tailored programs aimed at prevention, awareness, and support services, with the shared vision of safer families and stronger communities.

Speaking at the occasion, SVSG acknowledged the foresight of Maulolo and the commitment of the Fono Faavae to stand alongside SVSG in this important work. The partnership exemplifies the power of collective action in addressing complex social issues.

This MOU marks another significant step in SVSG’s mission to serve victims of violence and to work in partnership with local leadership and communities to build a Samoa free from violence.