CFLI officials meet with SVSG leadership to discuss progress and outcomes of the mental health and drug awareness partnership. Photo: Supplied
Today, SVSG welcomed Canadian officials from the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) to review their joint project focused on mental health and drug abuse in Samoan communities and schools. This two-year initiative, funded by CFLI and run by SVSG from 2025 to 2026, aims to raise awareness and deliver interventions addressing these social challenges.
The visit allowed both partners to assess interim results, discuss lessons learned, and consider challenges faced. With 80% of project activities completed, discussions centred on the project’s impact among Nofotane women and secondary school communities across Upolu and Savaii. These efforts targeted reducing stigma and providing essential support around mental health and drug abuse, which are contributing factors to violence.
Canadian CFLI officials and SVSG meet with senior students at Vaimauga College as part of the mental health and drug awareness project. Photo: Supplied
A key part of the visit was observing a session at Vaimauga College, where Canadian representatives saw senior students actively participating in project activities. SVSG, together with the Ministry of Police and Prisons and the GOSHEN Samoa Trust, facilitated the program, while CFLI officials observed engagement and outcomes.
CFLI officials meet with SVSG President Siliniu Lina Chang and the SVSG team to review progress on the mental health and drug awareness project. Photo: Supplied
SVSG President Siliniu Lina Chang expressed gratitude to the Canadian government and CFLI for their ongoing support. She highlighted the importance of mental health and drug abuse prevention as priorities for SVSG, given their connection to rising violence. President Chang also acknowledged the vital collaboration with the Police and GOSHEN Samoa Trust in delivering the project successfully.
SVSG, Police, and CFLI representatives gather with Vaimauga College staff to observe the project’s mental health and drug awareness activities. Photo: Supplied
This partnership, strengthened by CFLI’s ongoing support, is key to addressing the root causes of violence and improving community wellbeing in Samoa. The visit coincided with the 16 Days of Activism campaign, reinforcing the project’s significance as Samoa works to eliminate violence and promote safer communities.
SVSG Press Release – 28 November 2025
