Child Welfare Officers from the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection engaged with families in the Wailekutu Samoan Community to promote awareness regarding child safety and protection. During the event, the Acting Senior Welfare Officer for Child Protection, Nanise Ratumaiyale, emphasized the importance of quality time between parents and children, stating that it is crucial for children to feel both heard and loved in their homes.
Ratumaiyale addressed the increasing social challenges that youths in the community are facing, underscoring the necessity of robust support systems anchored in both family and community. She cautioned that feelings of rejection at home or within the community could drive children to seek support in less constructive environments.
Moreover, she reminded children of their rights while stressing their responsibilities, urging them to respect both their parents and community, as well as adhere to the laws of the land. The session featured an interactive component wherein children shared their aspirations with their families, and parents were encouraged to actively participate in nurturing these ambitions.
This initiative not only fosters open communication within families but also strengthens community ties, creating a supportive environment that can help address children’s needs more effectively.
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