The Samoa Umbrella for Non-Governmental Organisations (SUNGO) received a new vehicle funded by the Yazaki Kizuna Foundation to support its outreach work with communities across Samoa.

The ceremony was held on Tuesday at the SUNGO headquarters in Vaitele Tai and was attended by staff, partners, stakeholders, and members of the media.

A prayer and blessing by Reverend Tiafaaofo Gatoloai of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa at Tulaele opened the event.

The vehicle was funded by the Yazaki Kizuna Foundation, which reaffirmed its commitment to community development in Samoa.

SUNGO National Secretary Afioaga Funemalafai Ono Fuatai thanked the foundation for its support, saying the vehicle will help expand the organisation’s reach.

“This vehicle is more than just transportation. It will help us reach communities, deliver services and strengthen the voice of civil society in Samoa,” he said.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official handover of the vehicle.

Yazaki Kizuna Foundation Managing Director Shigeo Hosokawa said the donation is part of the foundation’s ongoing support in Samoa. 

Hosokawa said the vehicle will be used to transport SUNGO staff, training equipment, and for site visits.

He expressed hope that the support would help SUNGO carry out its work more effectively and contribute to the country’s development.

“We are honoured to partner with SUNGO in this initiative.”

“We hope this vehicle will help connect SUNGO with communities and support its work,” said Hosokawa. 

SUNGO is the national body representing civil society organisations in Samoa, working to strengthen NGOs, promote collaboration and support community development.