Celebrating a new chapter of mobility and outreach, the Business of Salafai Association (BOSA) received a brand new $120,000 van from Yazaki Kizuna Foundation in a ceremony held at the Samoa Chamber of Commerce office on Tuesday.

This reinforced their ongoing partnership to support community business development. The vehicle will greatly help with the operations of the association in terms of the transportation of BOSA staff, carrying out site visits and holding meetings regularly. 

BOSA was established in July 2011 with only 20 members and has increased over the years. It aims to promote the interest and well-being of Savaii's small businesses.

President of BOSA, Lamositele Maria Lamositele said the association was still struggling but they were trying their best.

"We are not completely out of danger from the COVID-19 impacts. As we lack funds and there is a need for assistance in certain areas. The Businesses in Salafai Association aims to set up its headquarters, but lack funding.

“So we have been in contact with different donors overseas in making our dreams come true and so far we have applied for a lease of land. Once it's approved, one of our donors will inspect the land. This project is not a small task, which means we have to apply to different donors for their assistance in making this project successful."

The Yazaki Kizuna Foundation has a long relationship with Samoa. After the Yazaki Corporation closed its factory in Samoa, they formed the foundation to help various organisations including small business associations, Women in Business Development and Lakapi Samoa.

The foundation has also donated a 14-seater van and audio-visual equipment to the Samoa Conservation Society for the purpose of holding effective environmental education and awareness youth programs in Upolu and Savaii.