For many women at this week’s SiamuFest workshop, the art of making siamu, or jam and preserves, was more than a culinary skill; it was a link between traditional knowledge, empowerment, and addressing gender-based violence.

Hosted by the Samoa Women’s Association of Growers (SWAG) in partnership with the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development (MWCSD) at the Siva Afi Restaurant in Apia, the workshop combined hands-on training in siamu and preserve making using locally grown fruits and vegetables with sessions addressing gender-based violence (GBV), including online abuse, in alignment with the 2025 16 Days of Activism theme, “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.”

Samoa Deaf Association member Maselina Uta welcomed her organisation’s inclusion in the workshop and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to develop practical skills and awareness around abuse. “Our members are excited to take these skills in preserving and share them within our families," she said. "I realised there was a lot of information about abuse I wasn’t aware of, including abuse online. I now better understand how to recognise abusive behaviour and how to share information about prevention in our communities.”

Uta was amongst 35 participants from Safata who created two types of preserves while learning value-added production techniques, safe food handling, and household nutrition. 

“Through initiatives like SiamuFest, we can support the ongoing development of economic opportunities for women and girls across Samoa while also raising awareness about abuse in all its forms," said Orita Asi, Principal Prevention and Early Intervention, Social Development Division.

“Events like SiamuFest are an important avenue for us to create spaces where women can talk about issues and seek support,” said Hekker Puela Matai, Senior Programmes and Training Officer. “Our research shows that economic inequality within families is one of the main drivers of GBV. By promoting opportunities to develop new skills and combat social issues, we can support women to both generate income and empower themselves.”

Project Manager Seutatia Vaai reflected on the year’s progress: “Economic empowerment and freedom from abuse go hand in hand. The collaboration showed the potential for the level of awareness and support that SiamuFest can offer through its program, which is very exciting. Fa’afetai tele lava to MWCSD for their partnership today, and we look forward to further workshops in the new year.”