Loau Donina Va’a, the Chief Executive Officer for Women, Community, and Social Development in Samoa, recently addressed delegates at the United Nations’ annual gender meeting, CSW69, highlighting the important advancements made toward gender equality. She pointed to last October’s Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia as a pivotal moment for gender equality initiatives.
Representing a seven-member delegation, which included civil society representatives and was led by Minister Laga’aia Tufuga, Loau articulated Samoa’s dedication to promoting gender equality, youth empowerment, and economic inclusion during the Commonwealth Women’s Forum (CWF). The event, attended by over 400 participants from 56 Commonwealth nations, showcased the Pacific’s proactive role in global gender dialogue.
Loau emphasized that Samoa’s accomplishments stemmed from a national movement rather than just hosting the CHOGM. She remarked on the importance of service in creating enduring change and highlighted the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including grassroots organizations and Pacific youth.
A significant outcome of the CWF was the formation of a national taskforce comprising 20 influential Samoan women from diverse sectors, fostering discussions on gender-responsive policies. Notably, the taskforce has secured 20% of Samoa’s annual budget for women-led initiatives.
The Manaia Market at CHOGM, showcasing over 40 talented women entrepreneurs, served as a testament to the economic empowerment of women in Samoa, reinforcing their role as essential contributors to resilience and innovation. Minister Tufuga emphasized the necessity of respect and understanding in addressing societal challenges.
Looking ahead, Loau called for sustained momentum in the pursuit of gender equality, advocating for collaborative approaches and leadership that prioritizes accountability and equity.
The discussions at CSW69 offer a hopeful outlook for a more inclusive future. Samoa’s active involvement in shaping the global dialogue on gender equality provides a model for other nations in the Pacific and beyond. The collective commitment of leaders, women, and youth in tackling these issues establishes a robust foundation for ongoing progress.
Samoa’s proactive stance not only highlights its dedication to gender equality but also signals a promising narrative of transformation achievable through shared purpose and determination. This spirit of collaboration serves as an inspiration for other nations striving for similar advancements.
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