48 district development plans completed

By Adel Fruean 20 January 2020, 3:00PM

A total of 48 districts have completed their District Development Planning (D.D.P.) programmes.

This is a highlight for the Ministry of Women Community and Social Development (M.W.C.S.D.) according to the Ministry’s Chief Executive Officer, Afamasaga Fa’auiga Mulitalo during an interview with Samoa Observer.

“The highlight for our Ministry last year was our D.D.P. programme where we managed to cover all 48 districts except two because of the measles we had to put on hold,” she said.

Afamasaga added that it was their aim to complete all of Samoa's 50 constituencies in the next couple of months.

“It is a highlight because a lot of these districts have started to seek for avenues to develop their own districts based on their plans," she said. “We work together with district representatives on how to put together their needs for development within their respective districts. The whole idea is letting the districts identify their needs and we also involve members of parliament.”

Afamasaga also said that the before they visit the districts they make sure to have the relevant information on each districts in terms of education such as the number of schools and its students.

“The data is significant because we can also pick up some issues but the districts identify the real problems they face and then allow them time to suggest solutions.

“Some have highlighted the need for education and awareness programmes on how to look after with people with disabilities, sexual reproductive health and suicidal cases. 

“And we have managed to respond to those needs thanks to development partners such as United Nations by engaging with the right stakeholders for example Samoa Family Health Association.”

The M.W.C.S.D. CEO said that their Ministry will focus this year on social, economic, and strategic policy development.

“We have already embarked on development mostly looking at the social side of things looking at the health of our population, education to make sure our children attend schools.

“And also look at opportunities for economic empowerment, governance through our close relationship with our village and Government representatives.

“We will continue to work closely with our districts and communities through our district development committee; village and Government representatives to make sure that our communities are living a healthy life.

“It all contributes to the national goal of the government to have quality life for all.”

Afamasaga added that they will continue to develop young people, women and supporting and advocating for ending violence within our communities.

“We will also make sure children’s rights are protected in terms of having a healthy life, are educated.

“Promoting for an inclusive development in terms of people with disabilities is included in all we do.”

  

By Adel Fruean 20 January 2020, 3:00PM

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