Government of Samoa
Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF SAMOA
ANNUAL REPORT
OF THE
MINISTRY OF WOMEN, COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
For the period ended June 30 2008
To be laid before the LegLegislativeislative Assembly
GOVERNMENT OF SAMOA
OFFICE OF THE MINISTER FOR WOMEN, COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
The Honourable Speaker The Legislative Assembly of Samoa
In compliance with Section 18 (2) of the Ministry of Women Affairs Act
1990, Section 17 (2) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs Act 1995 and Section 17 (1) of the Ministry of Youth Sports and Cultural Affairs Act 1993/1994, I have the honour to lay before you copies of the fourth Annual Report for the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development for the period of 1 st July 2007 to 30 th June 2008, for tabling before the Legislative Assembly of Samoa. This report documents activities implemented by the Ministry within this financial year, in accordance with the above identified Acts.
______Hon. Fiame Naomi Mataafa Mulinuu II MINISTER OF WOMEN, COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
2 GOVERNMENT OF SAMOA
Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development
Honourable Fiame Naomi Mataafa Mulinuu II
MINISTER FOR WOMEN, COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
In accordance with Section 18 (2) of the Ministry of Women Affairs Act 1990, Section 17 (1) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs Act 1995 and Section 17(1) of the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Cultural Affairs Act 1993/1994, I hereby submit the fourth Annual Report for the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development for the period of 1 st July 2007 to 30 th June 2008.
This report contains a summary of the operations of the Ministry for this financial year, in accordance with the requirements of the above identified Acts.
______
Luagalau Foisagaasina Eteuati Shon CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER FOR THE MINISTRY OF WOMEN COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT.
3 TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGES
INTRODUCTION 5
1. SECTION 1: MINISTRY OF WOMEN COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
1.1 Vision 6 1.2 Mission Statement 6 1.3 Mandate 6 1.4 Objectives 7 1.5 Functions 7 1.6 MWCSD Organisational Structure 8-9
2. SECTION 2: ACHIEVEMENTS AND INITIATIVES 2.1 Office of the Minister 10-11 2.2 Office of the Chief Executive Officer 11-13 2.3 Division for Internal Affairs 13-19 2.4 Division for Women 19-23 2.5 Division for Youth 23-27 2.6 Division for Research Policy Planning and Information Processing 27-31 2.7 Division for Printing 31-33 2.8 Division for Corporate Services 33-35
3. SECTION 3. STAFF DEVELOPMENT 36-37
4. SECTION 4. REPRESENTATION 38
5. SECTION 5. CONSTRAINTS 39
6. SECTION 6: MWCSD BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS (2007-2008) 40
7. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 41
8. ACRONYMS 41-43
4 INTRODUCTION
This is the 5 th Annual Report of the Ministry of Women, Community & Social Development (MWCSD) since the Ministerial Realignment in 2003. It is intended to highlight the Ministry’s strategic developments and accomplishments in terms of its contribution towards the attainment of Government’s overarching vision and mission. As well, it documents some of the challenges faced by the Ministry during this reporting period.
This year is considered a transitional period between the official conclusion of the first MWCSD Corporate Plan 2004 – 2007 on June 30 2007 and commencement of its new Corporate Plan 2008 – 2012. This transitional period was deemed to be of great importance in terms of reflecting on experiences and lessons learned from the implementation of the first Corporate Plan to inform the development of the new Corporate Plan with the aim to consolidate the direction and way forward for the Ministry in the next three to four years.
The Ministry of Women Community and Social Development, in collaboration with its partners and stakeholders, continued to make significant progress in its strive to accomplish its vision through the “ …provision of community welfare and social services to advance the attainment of quality of life for all .”
The mission of the MWCSD as stipulated in its Corporate Plan 2004 - 2007 was certainly in line with that of Government’s to ensure positive outcomes for all citizens of Samoa. Further, the Ministry’s core business to ensure the social and economic wellbeing of communities was consistently reflected in its achievements as highlighted in this Report. Despite the challenges faced by the Ministry during this reporting period, the commitment by each Division contributed positively to the achievements and successful completion of this year’s activities.
Significant events that occurred during this reporting period included the Ministry’s involvement in the preparations for the visit to Samoa of the New Zealand Governor General and assistance to the implementation of the TALOMUA programme spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Since its first Annual Report, the MWCSD has endeavoured to refine the organization of the information documented in each succeeding Annual Report. With this Annual Report, a matrix providing details of activities implemented under each Output is appended with the aim for readers to gain a greater appreciation of the extent of the work carried out by the Ministry.
The Ministry of Women Community and Social Development would like to acknowledge with great appreciation the commitment and continual support of the Government of Samoa, in particular the Honourable Minister of Women, Community and Social Development, Afioga Fiame Naomi Mataafa for her guidance and leadership throughout this financial year 2007 – 2008.
Last but not the least, our sincere appreciation and a big “faamalo” to all partners and stakeholders of the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development for their continual support and assistance to the work of the Ministry throughout this reporting period.
5 SECTION 1:
1.1 VISION
“To be the lead agency in Samoa in the provision of community welfare and social services to advance the attainment of quality of life for all”
1.2 MISSION
“To work in partnership with stakeholders to strengthen the social structures of Faa-Samoa to ensure the sustainable development of the spiritual, cultural, social and economic wellbeing of families and communities”
1.3 MANDATE
The Ministerial and Departmental Arrangements Act 2003 sanctioned the amalgamation of the MWCSD. However, during this reporting period, it continued to await a governing legislation to be drafted by the Attorney General’s Office.
In the absence of a specific legislation to govern the realigned MWCSD, it continued to be administered under the following mandates:
Government's Strategy for the Development of Samoa (SDS) 2005-2007 Ministry of Women Affairs Act 1990 and Amendment Act 1998 Ministry of Youth Sports and Cultural Affairs Act 1993 (provisions pertaining to Youth) Ministry of Internal Affairs Act 1995 and Amendments 1997 Ministerial and Departmental Arrangement Act 2003 UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) ratified by the government of Samoa in 1992 UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) ratified by the government of Samoa in 1994 Pacific Youth Strategy Commonwealth Youth Programme National Youth Policy 2001-2010
6 1.4 OBJECTIVES
The Ministry’s Corporate Plan 2004 – 2007 officially ended on 30 June 2007. However, the year under review constituted the transition from the completion of the Corporate Plan 2004 – 2007 to the development of the next Corporate Plan 2008 – 2012. In this connection, the following five broad objectives continued to be relevant for the Ministry’s work.
1. To provide quality advice on national policies and plans to promote the spiritual, cultural, social and economic development of families and communities.
2. To coordinate the provision of effective and efficient community and social development services to enhance social harmony and economic wellbeing of families and communities.
3. To promote a gender responsive orientation in national initiatives so as to provide more choices and opportunities for women, men, youth and children.
4. To provide quality and affordable printing services for government and private customers.
5. To strengthen Human Resources Management as well as Corporate Services systems, to support the efficient and effective delivery of services.
1.5 FUNCTIONS
To achieve its objectives, the Ministry continued to perform the following functions during the period under review:
1. Provision of policy advice 2. Provision of Ministerial support 3. Policy development, planning and research activities 4. Establishment of an appropriate Information system 5. Coordination and implementation of activities relating to the CEDAW and CRC. 6. Provision of Community development services for women. 7. Coordination and implementation of youth development programmes 8. Provision of capacity building programmes for Government women representatives, Pulenuu and Sui o le Malo*. 9. Dissemination of information on community and social development issues. 10. Promotion of Village based development activities and food security through Pulenuu and Sui o le Malo*. 11. Provision of quality printing services.
* Pulenuu counterparts in non traditional villages
7 1.6 MWCSD ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
Hon. Minister for Women, Community and Social Development.
Honourable Fiame Naomi Mataafa II
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Luagalau Foisagaasina Eteuati Shon
DIVISIONS
The Ministry retained its organisational structure of six Divisions, namely the Division for Internal Affairs, Division for Women, Division for Youth, Division for Printing, Division for Research, Policy, Planning and Information Processing, and Division for Corporate Services. Each Division was headed by an Assistant Chief Executive Officer (ACEO) who was directly responsible to the Chief Executive Officer. Shown below were the ACEOs for each of the Ministry’s Divisions:
Division for Internal Affairs - Maulolo L T Amosa Division for Women - Kuiniselani Tago Division for Youth - Sydney Faasau Division for Printing - Laulu Tevaga Alosio Division for Corporate Services - Faauiga Mulitalo Division for Research, Policy, Planning and Information Processing - Faasili Afamasaga
The Executive Management Team comprising the Chief Executive Officer and Assistant Chief Executive Officers was responsible for the overall management and coordination of the Ministry’s operations.
8 Minister
Associate Ministers (2)
Chief Executive Officer
DFIA DFW DFY DFP DRPPIP DFCS
Division for Internal Affairs (DFIA) Division for Women (DFW) Division for Youth (DFY) Division for Printing (DFP) Division for Research Policy Planning and Information Processing (DRPPIP)) Division for Corporate Services (DFCS)
PERSONEL BY DIVISION, POSITION AND GENDER
DIVISION MINISTER/CEO/ACEO PO SO OF AO CS TOTAL STAFF PER DIVISION M F M F M F M F M F M F OFFICE ^1 2 1 4 OF THE MINISTER OFFICE *1 1 1 1 4 OF CEO DFCS “1 2 1 4 4 5 6 3 26 DFP “1 1 4 1 4 3 12 1 27 DFIA “1 1 1 2 2 1 1 1 4 14 DFW “1 1 1 1 2 2 5 1 14 DFY “1 1 1 1 2 6 DFRPPIP “1 1 2 1 2 1 8 TOTAL 3 5 6 3 4 8 12 11 9 14 23 5 103 STAFF Total number of Males 57 Total number of Females 46
ACEO: Assistant Chief Executive Officer, PO: Principal Officer, SO: Senior Officer, OF: Officer, AO: Assistant Officer, CS: Causal M: Male, F: Female, ^Minister, *CEO, “ACEO
9 SECTION 2: ACHIEVEMENTS
2.1 Office of the Minister
1. During the reporting period, the effective and efficient performance of Ministerial functions was made possible through the provision by the Ministerial Secretaries of executive secretarial services to the Minister on a daily basis. The Ministerial Driver kept the Ministerial vehicle well maintained and in good running order through ensuring regular servicing. 2. All Cabinet submissions on policies, programmes and administrative matters related to the Ministry were submitted for Ministerial endorsement by the CEO. Cabinet Papers on the Minister’s attendance at USP meetings were prepared by the Ministerial Secretaries. 3. The Minister was briefed by the CEO on an as needed basis on matters pertaining to the Ministry, including issues related to village disputes that involved Pulenuu and Sui Tamaitai o le Malo. 4. The Office of the CEO and the Division for Corporate Services continued to provide administrative support services to the Minister and her office. 5. Technical advice was provided by members of the Executive Management Team as needed. 6. As Minister for Women, Community and Social Development, Hon. Fiame Naomi Mataafa, on behalf of the government of Samoa, attended:
The official launching of the NZ Government Pacific Economic Plan and Pacific Women’s Economic Development Plan, Auckland, August 2007 the Pacific Forum Leaders meeting, Tonga, October 2007 the Conference on Books compiled to support women running as candidates for Parliament, Nadi, November 2007; the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women’s 52 nd Session with the CEO and ACEO –Division for Women, New York, March, 2008; the Conference of the International Council of Women, Jakarta, Indonesia, April, 2008; Meeting of Pacific Leaders, Brisbane, June 2008
7. As Pro Chancellor of the University of the South Pacific, Honourable Fiame Naomi Mataafa attended:
the meeting of the Council to appoint a Vice Chancellor for the University of the South Pacific, July 2007. 2 meetings of the USP Finance and Development Board, July 2007. 2 meetings of the Task Force Board on Governance, July 2007, Suva Fiji. meetings of USP Finance and Development Board, Suva Fiji, September and October 2007. USP Finance & Investment Committee Conference, Suva, October 2007
10 Meetings of the USP Council and USP Taskforce on Governance, Suva, October 2007 Meeting of USP Finance Committee, Suva, December 2007 USP Joint Council and Senate meeting, Nadi, May 2008 USP 66 th Council meeting, Tonga, May 2008
Associate Ministers :
Associate Minister Moefaauo Lufilufi continued to be the Chairperson for the Komiti o le Faleula as well as Executive Pulenuu Committee in Upolu. Similarly, Associate Minister Tuilo’a Anitere’a continued as the Chairperson for the Executive Pulenuu Committee in Savaii. Both remained members of the Komiti Faapitoa o le Ie Samoa and in this capacity Moefaauo led the bimonthly inspections of Falelalaga in both Upolu and Savaii while Tuilo’a actively participated in the Savaii inspections whenever his health permitted. As endorsed by the Minister, Associate Minister Moefaauo Lufilufi delivered the keynote addresses in a number of the Ministry’s special programmes on behalf of the Minister.
2.2 Office of the Chief Executive Officer
During the period under review, the Chief Executive Officer, Luagalau Fiosagaasina
Eteuati Shon, in her technical role;
1. provided advice to the Minister on legislation and policies related to the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development:
Submission of the Final Draft of National Policy on Persons with Disabilities. Amendments to Internal Affairs Act, Ministry of Women Affairs Act submitted to the Office of the Attorney General.
2. fostered and maintained regional and international cooperation as well as maintained relationships with, and obligations to, regional and international organizations through her participation in international meetings and conferences on behalf of the Government of Samoa.
Meeting of the CYP Regional Advisory Council on Youth, Cook Islands, September 2007 SPC meeting on mapping of youth development projects, Cook Islands, September 2007 Conference on Pacific Civil Society Law, September 2007 Port Villa, Vanuatu. Conference on the Implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women, Port Villa, Vanuatu, November 2007. United Nations 52 nd meeting on Women Status, New York, 2 nd - 7 th August, 2007.
11 3. Provided technical advice to other Ministries and organizations on policies related to the MWCSD through her membership in a number of Government Boards, Councils, Special Committees and Steering Committees of other Government Ministries, with the aim to ensure that the interests and issues of the MWCSD were properly reflected in discussions, consultations and decisions made. 4. Developed and maintained partnerships with the private sector and other stakeholders. 5. Continued to provide oversight to the final processes of the Scoping and Design Phase of the Ministry’s Institutional Strengthening Project.
In her Management Role, the CEO managed the overall operation, performance and budget spending of the MWCSD during the period under review. Specifically, the CEO:
Conducted monthly meetings of the Executive Management to:
Review the Ministry’s status and discuss issues related to budgetary spending including internal financial controls and procedures in relation to the MOF policies and regulations; Discuss management issues and ways to resolve such issues including those related to PSC policies on staff working conditions and entitlements; Review the performance of each Division in terms of the implementation of activities as documented in the Ministry’s budget;
Initiated the conduct of monthly meetings of the Management Committee comprising the Executive Management and Principal as well as Senior Officers of each Division. The main purpose of this Committee was for senior officers of each Division to report and share information on the progress of Divisional programmes and externally funded projects. In addition, each Division identified its programmes/activities which called for assistance from other Divisions.
Conducted bimonthly staff meetings
Provided oversight in: quarterly reviews of the Ministry’s Performance Measures against budgetary spending the preparation of the mid-year review of the 2007/2008 budget the preparation of the budget estimates for FY 2008/2009 strengthening man Resource Management and Human Resource Development.
Conducted six-monthly Performance Reviews for the ACEOs against their Performance Agreements
Provided oversight in the implementation of the TALAVOU programme, the UNICEF funded Child Protection project and UNDP/UNFPA Gender-Based Violence Project. Chaired the TALAVOU programme Technical Working Group as well as the Gender- Based Violence Steering Committee.
12 Provided oversight in the implementation of the CEDAW and CRC. Chaired the NCCRC
Carried out reviews and editing of the Ministry’s policy and programme documents before submission to the Minister for endorsement.
6. Represented the MWCSD in CDC meetings.
7. Attended meetings of Statuary Boards: SQA Board, SBEC Board of Trustees, Films Control Board, PUMA Board.
8. Attended meetings of Special Committees to which she is appointed: Honours & Awards Committee, PSIF Working Group and Steering Committee, Customary Land Use Taskforce and Ie Samoa Committee as Secretary in which capacity she was responsible for the coordination of inspections of Falelalaga as well as the Fuataga in December 2007.
9. Provided advice on all matters pertaining to core functions of the MWCSD through regular briefings with the Minister on management issues/ policies and other related matters.
10. Ensured the proper preparation of Cabinet submissions for the Minister’s endorsement and Cabinet approval.
11. Prepared quarterly reports on the Ministry’s performance.
12. Reviewed and endorsed Divisional quarterly Work Plans and Progress reports
The CEO notes that despite challenges such as staff shortage and budgetary constraints, most of the activities under each of the Ministry’s Output during this financial year were achieved successfully as a result of the commitment of Assistant Chief Executive Officers and staff of the Ministry’s Divisions.
2.3 Division for Internal Affairs (DFIA)
The Division for Internal Affairs continued to advance sustainable village based development through the facilitation of social and economic development services to villages to ensure food security, promote good governance and encourage the revival of traditional values, practices and cultural heritage. This core function was realized
13 primarily through Pulenuu, Sui o le Malo and Pulenuu Executive Committees in Upolu, Manono, Apolima and Savaii that coordinated and encouraged community based development with the main aim of reviving village political, social, cultural and agricultural activities to ensure stable and secure livelihoods of all within the village economy.
ACHIEVEMENTS
Capacity Building for Pulenuu and Sui o le Malo:
1. Orientation
Orientation sessions were conducted regularly for new Pulenuu and Sui o le Malo with the aim to familiarise them with:
• duties and responsibilities of Pulenuu/Sui o le Malo • government protocols • the working environment as related to the different processes and work of the Division within the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development • expectations of the Ministry of them as Pulenuu of their respective villages and commitment as liaison officers between the central government and village
councils. • their allowances and important information pertaining to these allowances.
2. Seminars
Seminars were a very important part of capacity building for Pulenuu and Sui o le Malo during the period under review. These involved government Ministries, Corporations, NGOs and other civil society groups that were either invited by, or requested, the Division for Internal Affairs to address issues and emerging matters that concerned as well as called for the support of villages and community as a whole. Equally important were discussions and information dissemination on projects and programmes and related processes to be conducted in villages that required the support and assistance of Pulenuu and Sui o le Malo to convey to the village councils for their awareness and endorsement.
Three seminars in Upolu and two in Savaii were conducted each month from July to November 2007 and May to June 2008. Topics discussed in these seminars included issues related to the environment, health, electricity, registration of births, marriages and death,
family income, and aspects of good governance within village communities.
The following Ministries and Corporations made presentations in the seminars conducted during the period under review:
14 o Ministry of Health (MOH) – programme to promote effective ways of improving health such as taking part in National Exercising Programs and Awareness Programs on Filariasis. o Bureau of Statistics - explained all parts of National Survey for Family Income o Office of the Election Commission (OEC) - reiterated on election rules and process and updating of election rolls o Electric Power Corporation (EPC) - information were distributed on latest survey as well as dissemination information on families without electricity o Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) - presented their on going awareness programs such as: o National Electronic Waste Survey Project, o Elimination of the Myna Bird o Accessibility Guidelines for Building Design. o Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration (MJCA) - re-explained to Pulenuu the process and each step required for the registration of Matai titles, in particular, the standard form provided by Ministry to be filled by the Pulenuu
In addition, the Division for Internal Affairs conducted seminars targeting Pulenuu Committee Members only, as part of its strategies in introducing to, and promoting in, local communities the importance of good governance.
3. Pulenuu Monthly Meetings .
Scheduled monthly meetings were held for Pulenuu and Sui o le Malo and Pulenuu Executive Committee members during this financial year except for the months of December 2007 (Holidays),and June 2008 due to the Ministry of Health Programme (Faainuga Fualaau o le Mumu Tutupa). These meetings discussed matters and issues related to the: 1. promotion of harmony within villages. 2. government projects/programmes/activities implemented by different Ministries that needed the support of villages. 3. government Ministries Bills that needed input from Pulenuu. 4. roles and responsibilities of Pulenuu. 5. reports on access roads 6. comments and concerns from Pulenuu regarding activities/projects/programmes by Government Ministries or NGOs within their villages or districts.
4. Access Roads Inspections.
Access Road inspections continued to be conducted for both Upolu and Savaii once a month. The main purpose of these inspections was to ensure that access roads were well maintained by villages as directed by the Pulenuu and Sui o le Malo, to assure easy and safe access by all farmers to their plantations and agricultural fields, especially those quite
15 a distance from the villages. The main aim was to boost the level of production of food crops to ensure food security at all times for everyone. It was encouraging to note that access roads in most villages were well maintained, through the efforts of the aumaga, despite the fact that government assistance for the maintenance of access roads was discontinued.
5. Town Area Drainage Project
The Division for Internal Affairs continued its involvement in this project. Government representatives of areas such as Fugalei, Taufusi, Saleufi, Vaimea, Togafuafua, Lalovaea and Tauese/Apia were actively involved in the fortnightly inspections of families registered under the project. The Secretary of the Drainage Project Committee was a staff member of the Division for Internal Affairs.
6. Support for the Talomua Initiative
An initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the MWCSD through the Division for Internal Affairs was an active partner in the implementation of the Talomua progamme. Staff and Pulenuu were actively involved in the registration of village farmers and inspections of crops.
7. Water Sector Support Project (WaSSP) Independent Water Schemes
The Division for Internal Affairs provided the overall coordination of the Independent Water Schemes component of the WaSSP assigned to the MWCSD. Through a project funded Principal Officer responsible to the ACEO – DIA, consultations and capacity building activities were conducted with representatives of villages with Independent Water Schemes. As well, assistance was given to the development of an Independent Water Schemes Association.
8. Village Based Development Project .(VBD)
The Division for Internal Affairs was actively involved with two (2) Peace Corp Volunteers Groups that were in Samoa under the VBD Project to assist with community projects and capacity building. At least twenty three (23) volunteers, including one couple, were hosted by twenty two (22) villages in Upolu and Savaii.
Designated staff of the Division for Internal Affairs, in collaboration with staff of the Peace Corps Office in Apia, were engaged in the: • selection of host villages • orientation for host families, Pulenuu and representatives of women and youth of host villages • orientation of Peace Corps volunteers • monitoring of community projects through follow up visits to the Peace Corps volunteers
16 • resolution of differences that arose between the Peace Corps volunteers and other parties in the villages
Peace Corps Volunteers (PCV) were assigned to two groups of selected villages in which to work in facilitating capacity building and community projects, as shown in the table below:
Number of Projects Achieved: Group 1 Villages Project Achievements.
1. Salelesi -Built a library for the Primary School and funded books. - Received 10 computers for the library from the Rotary Club. -Assisted in tutoring school subjects at the homework centre. 2. Saleaaumua - Received fund from EU to complete a cattle ranch and conducted castration program. - Develop vegetable gardening at the Primary School and families. 3. Salua -Received fund from EU on school equipments for kindergarten school (educational materials), school fence and fridge for school. - Received twenty sewing machines from AusAid for women’s committee.
4. Vailoa Palauli -Tertiary school special needs, carpentry workshop introduced tool skills, gardening, castration pigs and cattle. 5. Falelima - Received fund from EU on water tanks (20). - Set up computer centre and teach computing skills. 6. Samalaeulu -Received fund from UNDP to develop commercial gardening (vegetable garden). - Built homework centre and brought 3 computers as gifts and teach computing skills. 7. Avao -Received sewing machines from AusAid for women’s committee. - Teach computing classes at the Primary School.
8. Sapoe - Develop vegetable gardening, built school fence and promote health and wellness exercise program. 9. Gataivai - Teach computing classes, promote health and wellness. - Received free equipments from Heems Fitness Centre to assist with the health program. - EU funded a hall for the exercise program, developed an agricultural cattle ranch and organic farming (misiluki) with Women in Business. 10. Neiafu - Received fund from UNDP for 30 water tanks for the village. - Promote crafting of Niue canoeing for village to fish beyond the lagoon.
11. Falelatai - Built school fence and provided equipments (chairs & desks). - Fund received from EU.
17 Group 2 Villages Projects Achievements.
1. Utualii - No project was achieved due to early termination from the program. The volunteer lacked the ability and strength to engage and cooperate with the village in developing projects. 2. Mulifanua - Teach computing classes at the tele-centre. 3. Vaiee - Assisted in improving the water system but did not complete his work due to early termination. 4. Poutasi - Received 3 computers, built homework centre & library. - Provided books as gifts for the library. - Promote the marine protected project. Encourage villagers to replant plants near the beach to prevent sand erosion. 5.MaasinaFagaloa -No project achieved due to early termination from work. The couple volunteer was not collaborating well with the village on project. 6. Iva - Developed health & wellness program with the Red Cross, test diabetes, vegetable gardening, and organized fundraising for Youth group to promote youth talents in dancing and printing elei. 7. Mauga - No project achieved due to early medical separation from the program.
8. Faga - No project achieved by the volunteer due to early termination from the program when breached one of Peace Corps policy in driving a vehicle while in service. 9. Vaisasulu - No project achieved due to early medical separation from the program.
10. Tafua & Future - Volunteer was removed from Tafua due to some misunderstanding on her Farmers Association. roles as a volunteer in the village. She is now employed by the Farmers Association and submitted a proposal for mushrooms which has earned the association with a grant of $120,000.00 for the mushroom project.
9. Komiti o le Faleula
The Komiti o le Faleula whose mission is Promoting Sustainability of Samoan tradition and culture continued to work on the following books:
Tusi Fa’amama’avega:
The final draft of this document completed during the last financial year 2006/2007 went through the final review and editing processes
18 during this financial year. This included the selection and insertion of relevant photographs to further illustrate the essence of Faamama’avega as intended to be conveyed in this booklet.
Tusi o Alagaupu, Mavaega ma Tofiga o Samoa
This task is now in its final phase as we approached the end of this financial year, the Komiti o le Faleula continued to work on this very important booklet with the aim of recording Samoan proverbs, their origin and appropriate usage in the implementation of different cultural proceedings.
Komiti o le Faleula Members 37 Pulenuu Members Savaii Upolu Pulenuu Executive Committee members 30 30 Pulenuu 83 162*
*including Sui o le Malo
BUDGET ALLOCATION:
Division for Internal Affairs FINANCIAL YEAR 2007 – 2008 Total resources Personnel 1,949,620 Operating Expenses 109,015 Overheads 94,963 Total Appropriation 2,153,597
2.4 Division for Women
The Division for Women continued to coordinate, implement, monitor and evaluate programmes on the advancement of women and the protection of children during this financial year. Although the National Policy for Women and National Policy for Children are yet to get Cabinet approval, they were still used to provide the overall direction for the work of the Division this year. The Performance Measures Matrix attached to this report provides the details of the Division’s achievements as well as lapses in its efforts to achieve its goals for the year. This part of the report must therefore be read in conjunction with the Performance Measures Matrix in order to get a better appreciation of the work of the Division for Women
19 under Outputs 3 and 4 for FY 2007/2008.
Overall, the Division noted that despite the reduction in its budget, the challenge of staff leaving for greener pastures and the daily confrontations with being government employees, it was able to realize some very positive achievements this year. Since the beginning of 2007, the Division embarked on a new initiative to ensure that the programmes and services delivered were making a difference in the lives of women and children. This resulted in the adaptation of a Results Based Framework which focused on the results and impact of the programmes it implemented as opposed to the activity based achievements that it was used to. The DFW staff used this results based tool to assess the effectiveness of programme interventions and implementation. As such, the highlights for the Division for Women for this financial year were documented in the context of what had been identified to be some of the results of its work for 2007/2008.
1. Provision of high quality policy advice and policy interventions:
• The recognition and reference in the Strategy for the Development of Samoa of the Draft National Policies for Women and Children as the frameworks guiding the overall work on the advancement of women and the protection of children was a major achievement. This was the result of much advocacy and strong articulation by the Division of the need to reflect the work on women and children in Samoa’s Strategy for Development. Much work however continued in terms of ensuring that this was further reflected at the sector level to facilitate resource availability to implement these policies. • DFW staff participated in numerous national, regional and international processes in which they articulated the technical position of the MWCSD on issues relating to the advancement of women and child protection. • Staff of the Division actively participated in, and made some useful technical contributions to, the determination of the strategic direction of the MWCSD for the next 5 five years through the Corporate Planning process. • The DFW was also actively involved in the development of the MWCSD's Institutional Strengthening Project Design through a review of the Ministry as an organization and by determining what the future would be in terms of roles and functions for MWCSD.
2. Enhanced Programme Coordination and Implementation:
• A Situation Analysis for the Aiga ma Nuu Manuia Programme (ANM Programme) was conducted in November 2007. This was a questionnaire based review of the programme conducted through the Government Women Representatives (GWR) to
20 determine the issues involved and how the programme may be redirected to obtain better results for village communities. A report on the findings and analysis revealed that the family level vegetable gardens, the promotion of smoke free homes and the component on promoting pig pens were the weak components which needed to be strengthened. The review by staff also pointed to the need to bring on board other key stakeholders such as Samoa Water Authority, Ministry of Natural Resources and Meteorology and Samoa Tourism Authority to ensure that the linkages of the ANM Programme to similar work they were doing were realised and strengthened. Another important issue identified was the need for village Pulenuu to work closely with the GWRs in the implementation of the ANM Programme so that issues such as the promotion of pig pens were realised through support from the village councils. Apart from these issues, the review showed that overall the implementation of the programme was progressing well. Notwithstanding, the DFW began looking at a way forward with the ANM Working Group in terms of how women’s committees and or village communities in general may be supported in order to strengthen the weak aspects of the programme. • With the completion of the Draft National Policy for Women, efforts began on the development of a National Plan of Action for the Advancement of Women 2008- 2012. This Plan would identify the priorities in the work on the advancement of women for the next five years in line with the Draft National Policy for Women 2007-2017. This would improve programme coordination and implementation as there would now be a Framework available for the regular review and tracking of activities on the advancement of women, in line with the mandates of the Division.
3. Strengthened Monitoring and Evaluation Function:
• In strengthening the Monitoring and Evaluation function of the Division for Women, the focus this year was on the compilation of existing data and making sense of this information through data analysis. Information obtained from the ANM Programme, the GWRs Performance Management System and data from the Child Protection Information System (CPIS) were analysed with the aim to improve programme delivery and interventions for women and children. • A Survey on the Causes of the Outbreak of Typhoid Fever was conducted towards the end of 2007 in collaboration with the ANM Working Group in response to a request from the MOH for the MWCSD as the implementing agency for the ANM Programme to explore and investigate the causes for the outbreak of typhoid fever in specific villages where incidences of typhoid fever were on the rise. • The Division's Six Months Monitoring, Evaluation and Planning Processes, although an ongoing activity, was noted as one of the highlights for this period. Its last Six Months Process for the financial year provided an opportunity for staff to
21 really look at and understand the strategic direction of the Ministry as stipulated in its new Corporate Plan 2008-2012 in line with the Strategy of the Development of Samoa. The final part of understanding the strategic direction of the Ministry was an overview of the MWCSD ISP and what it intends to do in the next couple of years and what this means for the Division. The concluding session for this process was on "Reflections". It was an emotional session as staff reflected on where we came from, having understood our present and future direction as a Division. The Musical Pictorial Presentation of the humble beginnings of the former Ministry of Women Affairs and where we had come from created such a powerful impact on staff that it was strongly recommended for the MWCSD to revisit the documentary on the history of the Ministry of Women in Samoa.
4. Improved Networking and Collaboration:
• Numerous meetings were conducted with the CEDAW and CRC Partners including meetings at village level with some village councils and women’s committees. The conduct of these meetings strengthened the village and national level networks for the Division for Women. As well, they provided the opportunity to not only further educate our partners and stakeholders on the work that the Division does for the advancement of women and the protection of children, but also to realize continuing education for staff on what goes on outside of the DFW office.
5. Programme Sustainability and Ownership:
• It must be noted for the record that this financial year officially brought to an end the work of the Pacific Children's Programme (PCP), an AusAID funded project that began in 2001 under the former Ministry of Women Affairs. The work of PCP was definitely an overwhelming experience for all who had led and taken part in the project. The Division for Women through the Child Protection Output/Section will continue the work of PCP in Samoa for many years to come. The generous assistance of the Government of Australia is acknowledged in this report. This assistance helped to realise the vision of PCP in Samoa which was now beginning to become a reality through the National Plan of Action for Children 2008-2012 that was endorsed by the National Council on CRC in June 2008. The Community Strengths Based Approach which was developed, trialled and proven successful through the years of PCP was a “brainchild” of the Ministry It had been adopted and used in several contexts of programme development and delivery. Sustainability of the work of PCP would continue through the work of the Division for Women on CRC. Without question, the legacy of PCP as a success story in Samoa and in the Pacific region will live on.
22 PROJECTS/ SUB-PROJECTS RESPONSIBLE FOR:
1. UNICEF Child Protection Programme. One achievement noted this year for this UNICEF funded programme was the development of the Government of Samoa 5 Year Child Protection Plan which is one of the components for the National Plan of Action for Children 2008-2012 that had been endorsed by the National Council for CRC.
2. UNFPA Gender Based Violence Project. We were one of the implementing Divisions for this project. Achievements this financial year included the conduct of the Women and Husbands Workshops for Upolu and Savaii.
BUDGET ALLOCATION
Advancement of Women services FINANCIAL YEAR 2007 – 2008 Total Resources Personnel 864,245 Operating Expenses 671,562 Overheads 94,963 Add Donor Cash Funded 574,000 Less Cost recoveries 2,000 Total Appropriation $1,628,770
Protection of Children Services
Personnel 136,745 Operating Expenses 24,282 Overheads 64,852 Add Donor Cash Funded 269,150 Less Cost recoveries 1,000 Total Appropriation $494,029
2.5 Division for Youth
The Division for Youth continued to coordinate and enhance opportunities for economic capacity building initiatives and social skills development for young people. The Division’s focus is divided into three main units namely, (1) Social Services Development Unit, (2) Economic and Skills Building Unit and (3) Management & Evaluation Unit.
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Overall activities performed by the Division for Youth during this reporting period included the implementation and monitoring of youth development programmes such as trainings, workshops, meetings, awareness consultations and recreational/sports activities for young people, in collaboration with all Youth Stakeholders including young people themselves. In addition, the Division was responsible for organizing and coordinating the commemoration of special days pertaining to youth such as the International Youth Day and the Samoa National Youth Week.
As the focal point for the TALAVOU programme, the Division continued to address youth issues using a wide sector approach, involving all key stakeholders; with financial assistance from the major donors namely the UN Agencies and the Government of New Zealand through its NZAID programme
ACHIEVEMENTS
This financial year saw the official launching of the TALAVOU Programme Official Newsletter on the 10 th August 2007, together with the Division for Youth Strategic Plan 2007-2009. The main aim of the Newsletter is to enhance the flow of essential information to the community, key TALAVOU stakeholders and especially young people about services being implemented through the TALAVOU programme. Another objective of the newsletter is to update young people of Samoa about opportunities available for their development, plus current and past activities which the TALAVOU programme has spearheaded and implemented.
A staff evaluation session was conducted at the Insel Conference Room from the 16 th – 18 th January 2008, to evaluate and reflect on the work done so far by the Division, and recommend strategies and plans for the next six months of the Financial Year 2007/2008.
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National Youth Week
The Samoa National Youth Week which is commemorated annually in the second week of December was officially opened on Sunday, 9 th December 2007, with a Sunday Youth Service held at the Tooa Salamasina Hall. The Sunday Service was well attended by youth groups, stakeholders, invited guests and young individuals from around the country. The opening service was followed by the Youth spiritual Dance Competition which was won equally by: Saleimoa CCCS Youth Group and the Maagiagi Methodist Youth Group. The Faatoia Methodist Youth Group won second place.
A National Youth Forum on ICT (Information Communication Technology) was held on the 4 th December 2007. This forum was coordinated by the Ministry of Communication, Information and Technology in collaboration with the Division for Youth as part of the Samoa National Youth Week activities. This very important forum was attended by more than fifty (50) selected young people from around Samoa, as this was an interesting area amongst the young population of Samoa, who at the time were assisting the operating of MCIT Fesootai Centres.
Part of the Youth week activities was the Peer Educators Training on “Youth and Leadership” that was conducted for three days starting from 5 th – 7 th December 2007. On the 10 th December 2007, a consultation was conducted by the MWCSD with Youth Groups and Youth representatives to inform them about the MWCSD Institutional Strengthening Project, and obtain their views and opinions of this very important program for the Ministry, in which young people are also stakeholders.
As part of Government support for youth community based training programs, a one week sewing and elei printing workshop was also conducted for ten (10) young people and members of the Women’s Committee of CCCS Avao from the 10 th – 15 th December 2007.
International Youth Day
The annual commemoration of the International Youth day on the 12 th of August this year coincided with the celebration of the Samoa National Father’s day (2 nd Sunday of August) during the reported period. As a result, the International Youth Day was celebrated on the 10 th August 2007.
In commemorating the 2007 International Youth Day, a HIV/AIDS awareness program was facilitated by peer educators who led the Safe Game Campaign as part of the 2007 South Pacific Games preparation. The program was conducted at the Central Bank
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Conference Room on the 10 th August 2007, and was well attended by school representatives and prefects, plus community and church youth leaders and representatives.
Two other major achievements were launched as part of the International Day commemoration. The first was the launching of the TALAVOU Programme Official Newsletter (10 th August 2007); and secondly, launching of the Division for Youth Strategic Plan 2007 – 2009, which would guide the work of the Division in the next two years.
Career Day Programme
One Career Day programme was held in Upolu on the 17 th August 2007, with participants from Savaii travelling over to participate. The main aim of the program was to increase and raise young people’s awareness of employment and income generating activities and career choices and opportunities. This year’s Career day was coordinated by the Avanoa Tutusa (NGO) in collaboration with the MWCSD and the National University of Samoa. The Career Day was held also on the National University of Samoa’s Open Day.
Samoa National Youth Awards
The annual Samoa National Youth Award (SNYA) for this financial year, 2007/2008 received nominations, of eight (8) individual participants to contest the winner of the Individual’s category, and nine (9) youth organizations to contest the winner of the Organization’s category. These nominees satisfied all the set criteria for the SNYA. The individual category was won by Ms. Delia Atkinson, nineteen (19) years of age of Iva, Savaii, with her “Ie Samoa” weaving initiative. The group category was won by the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa Youth Group from Moataa for their multipurpose court project. The CYP did not run the CYP Youth Awards this year, and therefore, we did not make any submissions for the CYP Gold and Silver Awards.
Mid Term Review of National Youth Policy
Four consultations were conducted as part of the Samoa National Youth Policy review process. The four consultations were conducted in 1) Savaii, 2) Upolu, 3) Ministry of Women Community and Social Development, and with 4) Stakeholders. The KVA Consultants who were contacted to conduct the review started putting together the report on January 2008 and is expected to be finalized by September 2008, which is the first quarter of the next financial year 2008/2009.
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Samoa National Youth Working Committee
The Samoa National Youth Working Group continued its monthly meetings throughout the reported financial year 2007/2008. Issues discussed in the committee’s monthly meetings included Youth Programs, partnership between Community Based Youth Groups and Stakeholder, and activities by organization targeting Youth social and economic development.
BUDGET ALLOCATION:
Division for Youth FINANCIAL YEAR 2007 – 2008 Total Resources Personnel 234,202 Operating Expenses 60,964 Overheads 69,481 Add Donor cash funded 687,123 Total Appropriation $1,051,770
2.6 Division for Research, Policy, Planning and Information Processing (DRPPIP)
The Division continued with its role of developing policies, planning, conducting social research and disseminating information pertaining to the Ministry’s core functions and programs. It was noted that the Division had been working in its full capacity with all vacant positions filled for the first time.
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Achievements:
1. MWCSD Annual Management Plan 2008/2009
The Annual Management Plan 2008/2009 was developed, endorsed and published as planned. This plan was developed based on consultations with Executive Management and Senior Officers of the Ministry. Consultations on the Ministry’s Corporate Plan 2008 - 2012 were also used as an opportunity to discuss this plan.
2. MWCSD Corporate Plan 2008-2012
This is one of the major highlights of the work of the DFRPPIP. Apart from its technical contribution, staff of the Division as part of its roles and functions coordinated all the technical and administrative processes involved with the development of the Plan until it was finally completed. The Ministry’s second Corporate Plan 2008 – 2012 was completed, endorsed and published as planned as anticipated in this financial year. It was very much a collective effort of the Ministry’s Management, senior staff and all of the Ministry’s stakeholders that were consulted in the process
3. Community Sector Plan
Revisions of this Plan were still in progress. The Division conducted internal consultations with the Management and Senior Staff of the Ministry and inserted changes raised. Another major undertaking was the updating of the situational analysis part of the Plan as recommended.
4. MWCSD Annual Reports 2005/2006 & 2006/2007
The Annual Report 2005/2006 was finalised, translated and published in the beginning of this financial period. It was then submitted to Cabinet for its endorsement prior to its tabling in Parliament for the latter’s deliberations. The first draft of the 2006/2007 Annual Report was submitted to the management for comments and recommendation. The second draft with changes suggested by the Executive Management was also completed and submitted to the Executive for endorsement.
5. MWCSD Institutional Strengthening Project
The Division continued to be focal point for this initiative, particularly in providing technical, administrative and secretarial assistance throughout the workshop processes. The Assistant Chief Executive Officer of the Division for Research, Policy, Planning and Information Processing continued assuming the role of Project Coordinator for this work.
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6. MWCSD Service Charter
The Service Charter 2004 review framework was developed in the last quarter of the financial year. Planning and preparations were made for consultations scheduled for each Division of the Ministry as well as Management to be implemented in the first quarter of the 2008/2009 financial year due to other completing priorities.
7. Directory for Women (updates)
The work on the Directory for Women in Parliament and the Directory for Women Heads of Government Ministries & Corporation was near completion by the end of this reporting period.. This task was expected to be completed and published in the next financial year.
8. Internal Affairs Policy – Discussion Paper
A Discussion Paper for this Policy was completed and translated into Samoan. The Discussion Paper was then sent to the Division for Internal Affairs for comments. These were submitted and inserted. Other components of the policy development process were expected to be implemented in the 2008/2009 financial year.
9. National Policy for Persons with Disabilities
A Discussion Paper was prepared in both English and Samoan in the first quarter of the reporting period with the aim to develop a National Policy for Persons with Disabilities. The Discussion Paper was endorsed by the Chief Executive Officer for usage in consultations. The Senior Policy Officer was appointed as the person to work on this task taken his expertise and experience on the issue. Assistance was provided by the Attorney General’s Office in the drafting of a Cabinet submission to establish a Taskforce in the Ministry of Women, Community & Social Development to address issues of persons with disabilities, including a policy. The submission was expected to be submitted in the beginning of the 2008/2009 financial year.
10. Newsletter & Radio Program
Six (6) bimonthly newsletters were produced and disseminated within the reporting period. Due to budget constraints, the Domestic Violence project funded by UNFPA started funding the Ministry newsletter “Ua taoto le ataata o taulelei” in the last quarter of the financial year. Twenty four (24) radio programs
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were aired on Radio 2AP at 9:00pm on Tuesday nights, discussing issues and programs carried out by the Ministry and its stakeholders, as well as special events such as Mothers’ Day, Fathers’ day and White Sunday.
11. Gender-based Violence Project funded by UNFPA/NZAID/UNDP
This Project was initiated to address the findings and recommendations of the Samoa Family Health and Safety Study conducted by SPC and funded by UNFPA in 2000, under the guidance of the former Ministry of Women Affairs. Implementation of this project initially started in August 2007 under the Division for Women. In January 2008, coordination shifted from the Division for Women to the Division for Research, Policy, Planning and Information Processing in January 2008. The Assistant Chief Executive Officer for DFRPPIP was appointed as Project Coordinator and the Programme Manager funded under the Project was recruited immediately. The project’s Work Plan for the next three years was finalised and approved by the Chief Executive Officer of MWCSD and the Director of UNFPA. A number of initial consultations on violence issues were conducted for both Upolu and Savaii and Divisional staff were involved as facilitators and to provide technical and secretarial support. Some of the activities under this Project include:
o Stakeholders Consultations on Domestic Violence Themes and Messages Four (4) consultations were conducted for Pulenuus, Government Women Representatives, Ministry’s partners and stakeholders to discuss findings of the Family Health and Safety Study (FHSS) conducted in Samoa in 2000 as well collect views and opinions of those who attended on possible themes and messages to assist us with our campaign on Domestic Violence. o Situational Analysis on Sex Work in Samoa (Survey) This task is headed by the Research unit of the Division. In-depth interviews with the selected target group was completed within this financial year. Focus group discussions and other components of the survey will be implemented in the 2008- 2009 financial year when the funds from UNFPA would be released. o IEC Materials & Dissemination of FHSS findings The whole Division contributed in developing relevant and culturally appropriate IEC Materials for the dissemination of the FHSS Study findings. Messages were highlighted in our monthly newsletter as well as on the Ministry’s radio programmes that focused on Domestic Violence issues. Respected members of society confronted with the same issue were invited as Guest Speakers on these programmes. Materials for TV and Radio Spots as well as Book Marks and Items proposed for a Newspaper Corner were also developed.
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BUDGET ALLOCATION:
DFRPPIP FINANCIAL YEAR 2007 – 2008 Total Resources Personnel 303,894 Operating Expenses 53,020 Overheads 85,704 Add Aid Cash Funded 83,200 Less cost recoveries 300 Total Appropriation $525,518
2.7 Division for Printing
The Division for Printing, set up by Cabinet Approval, remained the agency responsible for providing appropriate printing services to meet the requirements of government Ministries, Corporations and the general public.
ACHIEVEMENTS.
Two (2) major events took place in the 2007/2008 Financial Year. Firstly was the hosting by our country of the XIII South Pacific Games. Most of the coloured publications including 33 different sports Manuals, Chef de Mission Manuals, Accreditation cards and Media Guides were printed by the Division for Printing. All these publications were printed in 4- colors and it was a good opportunity to showcase and advertise the work carried out by the Division for Printing. The second event was the publication of the Head of State’s book titled Colloquium on Indigenous Cultural and Religious Concepts of Peace and Good Governance. Printing activities were divided into two categories i.e. General Printing and
Publication.
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1. General Printing .
The Ministry of Health was by far the biggest customer for general printing which included assorted Medical Forms for both Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital, the Malietoa Tanumafili II Hospital at Tuasivi and Districts Health Centres. Other Ministries requested letterheads, business cards, receipt books and invitations. The private customers played an important role in the general printing category with some ordering pamphlets, invoice books, cheques etc.
2. Publications.
With the availability of 4 colour machines, more and more Ministries and the general public requested coloured publications. The Division for Women and Division for Youth made good use of this service. They requested colored publication as well as the reprinting of some of their frequently used publications. In August, our country hosted the XIII South Pacific Games 2007 and most of the publications were printed by the Printing Division. It was indeed an opportunity for the Printing Division to be part of this highly successful and best games ever held.
Furthermore, the Printing Division published three (3) different books by different authors. Firstly, we published the book by His Highness the Head of State, Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi. “ Colloquium on Indigenous Cultural and Religious Concepts of Peace and Good Governance ”. Secondly, we published a Samoan Oratory Book titled “ O le Tafafa o Au Measina Samoa ” by Fepuleai Sauao. Thirdly, we published another Samoan Short Stories Book titled “ Valaau mai le Tuugamau” by Matavai Tautunu Aumua.
3. Printing Advisory Services .
Customers were given advice on the best ways to produce his/her work in terms of quality, costs and delivery time. There were three (3) main elements which the customers always looked at when they requested advisory services. Proofs were also prepared, so that the Customers would view his job and make a decision. Advisory Services were provided free of charge.
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4. Training of Staff on Latest Technology .
With the absence of Printing Courses at the Institute of Technology at Lepapaigalagala, the Division for Printing had been looking at three options. Firstly, requests had been submitted to Public Service Commission for In- Country training, secondly we carried out our own In –House or on-the-job training and thirdly, we had access to Printer’s Magazine which was a monthly magazine distributed by the New Zealand Printers Federation. It was imperative to keep up with the latest printing technology in order to improve the efficiency
of the Division’s production .
BUDGET ALLOCATION:
Division for Printing FINANCIAL YEAR 2007 -2008 Total Resources Personnel 389,727 Operating Expenses 283,273 Overheads 81,075 Less Cost Recoveries 700,000 Total Appropriation $54,075
2.8 Division for Corporate Services
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Human Resource & Administration
1.1 Provide human resource and administrative support services to all divisions of the Ministry as well as the offices of the Minister and the CEO 1.2 Coordinate and implement the recruitment and selection process in accordance with existing policies and guidelines 1.3 Coordinate training needs for all Divisions for the PSC In-country training program 1.4 Provide advice on all human resource matters 1.5 Manage and monitor Ministry’s staff leave entitlements to ensure compliance with policies and procedures. 1.6 Conduct induction training programs for the Ministry’s newly recruits. 1.7 Process salaries and wages & allowances for staff, casual employees, Pulenuu, Sui o le Malo o Tina, Komiti o Pulenuu (2) and Komiti o le Faleula. 1.8 Conduct regular checks and spot check exercises to monitor staff attendance. 1.9 Monitor the use of office vehicles.
Accounts & Finance Section
• Coordinate & compile the Ministry’s annual budget and forecasts for FY2008/09 • Coordinate & compile the Ministry’s Forward Estimates for the next three years • Provide quality financial assessment based on budget allocations on a monthly basis • Conduct regular cash spot checks to ensure compliance with policies & procedures • Conduct bi-annual stock take of fixed assets • Conduct quarterly and mid year budget reviews • Provide refresher training for staff on the budget process, government financial system, and the new chart of accounts. • Process and disburse cheques for payments to recipients of prizes from national events administered by the Ministry such as “Fuataga o le Ie Samoa”, “National Youth Week”, and the “Access roads program”.
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Achievements
1.10 The Division’s commitment to improving staff awareness on governing legislation, government policies and procedures continued throughout the period is evident with the series of staff refresher training programs being carried out. 1.11 The recruitment and selection procedures as set out in the PSC manuals and guidelines have been complied with in the implementation of the process. 1.12 The PSC training needs analysis application form has been circulated to all Divisions and the training requests were submitted to the office of the PSC for the n-country training program. 1.13 Written and verbal advice on human resource matters based on exiting policies and procedures have been provided upon requests by Management and staff. 1.14 Leave reports have been circulated to all Divisions with copies submitted to PSC. Staff members were also reminded of the leave application process to ensure compliance with policies. 1.15 The induction program for newly appointed staff members has been conducted 1.16 The payroll processing is an on-going activity and this was successfully carried out for all employees of the Ministry including Pulenuu, Sui o le Malo and Komiti embers. There were no major complaints received during the period. 1.17 Despite the different locations of the Ministry’s Divisions, staff attendance was continuously monitored through fortnightly checks and spot check exercises. 1.18 Developed an internal system for the use of office vehicles within the Division for Corporate Services 1.19 The 2008/09 budget proposal for the Ministry was compiled and submitted to the Ministry of Finance on time. 1.20 The Ministry’s Forward Estimates and forecasts for the next three year period ending 2010/2011 compiled and submitted to the Ministry of Finance on time. 1.21 Monthly budget assessment reports prepared and submitted to all Output Managers. Details of budget spending and collections have also been provided. 1.22 Regular cash spot checks carried out to ensure that petty cash and all cash receipts are properly accounted for and promptly deposited with the Ministry of Finance. 1.23 The first stock take of fixed assets was carried out within the first six months of the financial year with the last one that was carried out towards the end of the financial year. 1.24 Quarterly and mid year reviews of the budget have been conducted. The achievements of all divisions in terms of the performance measures have been compared against the level of budget spending. 1.25 Training programs have been carried out on changes of the government financial system (Gofar) as well as the new chart of accounts for staff involved with the accounting process. The Output Managers have also been provided with appropriate training on the changes of the budget format according to the template received from the Ministry of Finance. 1.26 The cheques for payments to the recipients of prizes from the Fuataga o le Ie Samoa, Access Roads program and the National Youth Week were processed and paid out on time.
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SECTION 3: STAFF DEVELOPMENT
Division NATIONAL PROCESSES REGIONAL & INTERNATIONAL PROCESSES Division for 1. Gender Training – funded by the 1. UNICEF Child Protection Women In-country Training Programme. Regional Meeting and 2. Consultation on the Australian Workshop, Nadi Fiji. Outreach Sports Development 2. Workshop on Social Work and Programme through the Ministry Social Welfare Systems, of Education, Sports and Culture. Bangkok Thailand. 3. Community Paralegal Training 3. 52 nd Session of the Commission conducted by RRRT and on the Status of Women, New coordinated by SUNGO. York, USA 4. Customer Service Induction 4. Regional Consultation on CSEC Course by the Division for and CSA held in Suva Fiji. Corporate Services – MWCSD 5. SPC Community Education for new staff. Training Centre Training of 5. Consultation on the Draft Trainers for Entrepreneurs in the Strategic Plan for Post School South Pacific, Suva, Fiji Education and Training (PSET) 6. Meeting on CEDAW 2008-2016 Implementation held in Port 6. Workshop on Human Rights, Vila, Vanuatu. Law and Ethics Training. 7. Lovelife – Youth Coalition 7. Workshop on Domestic Violence Training, Nadi Fiji. by the Ministry of Police and Prisons Service. 8. Workshop on Food Based Dietary Guidelines by the Ministry of Health. Division for 1.February 2008: Induction Course 1. October 2007- Oxfam Training Youth Australia 2. October – November 2007: JICA Training on Remote and Rural Island/Community Development, Ojica, Japan 3. November 2007: CEFE Training, Fiji 4. February 2008 Peer Education Meeting, Fiji 5. March 2008: Regional Youth Stakeholders Meeting, SPC and Pacific Youth Council, New Caledonia. 6. April 2008: Pacific Youth Caucus, New Zealand; Cook Islands 7. April 2008: Youth Gender and Economic Empowerment in the
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Pacific, Australia. 8. June 2008: JICA follow up training, Suva, Fiji. Division for 1. Ministry Induction Course 1. Roundtable meeting on Women with Research. Policy 2. Division (DFRPPIP) Induction Disabilities, November 2007, Nadi. Planning and and Refresher course Fiji. Information 3. Customer Service Induction 2. Regional Workshop on Population, Processing. Course by the Division for Development and Poverty in the Corporate Services (MWCSD) Pacific. Suva, Fiji. 24 th – 28 th 4. In-Country Gender Training. September 2007. 3. 10 th Asia and Pacific Region Workshop on Human Rights Protection. Bali, Indonesia. 10 th – 12 th July 2007. Division for 1. Induction Course 1. Training of Trainers, Fiji. Internal Affairs 2. Community Development Service Training, Fiji. 3. Training of trainers Program on Leadership Development, Tonga, 26/11/07-1/12/07. 4. 9th Meeting of the Commonwealth Advisory Committee on Good Governance, Suva Fiji, 12 – 16 November 2007. Corporate 1. Induction Course. 1. Pacific Human Resource Executive Services and AV 2. Customer Service training Officers Training.16 th -30 th /08/08, conducted by the DCS through the Canberra, Australia. PSC in-country training program 2. Finance Planning and management for all divisions of the MWCSD.. for the implementation of Millennium 3. Records Management training Goals. 26 th -29 th May 2008 Rarotonga, as part of the in-country training Cook Island. program was also provided for all administrative staff from all divisions. 4. Go far system and the new Chart of accounts for 2008/09. 5. Refresher training program on Human Resources and Admin matters conducted for the Ministry’s staff in addition to the induction course.
Division for 1. In-house Trainings Printing 2. Induction Courses conducted by Corporate Services. SECTION 4: REPRESENTATION
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The decision by the CEO for the Ministry’s representation in various committees of other Ministries to be delegated to ACEOs based on the relevance to, and nature of, the Division’s work continued. The following table shows the responsibilities delegated to the ACEOs of the Ministry’s six (6) Divisions:
Representation Ministries ACEO – Division for Internal Affairs Agriculture ACEO – Division for Women Health ACEO – Division for Youth Education ACEO – Division for Research, Policy Planning and Environment/ Law and Information Processing Justice ACEO – Division for Corporate Services Tourism ACEO – Division for Printing Disaster Management Advisory Committee ( MNRE)
This decision was made to ensure that:
o The views of the MWCSD are made known and reflected in the decision making process of respective Ministries; o Linkages between the MWCSD and other relevant Ministries of government are strengthened; o The respective ACEOs are held accountable for the Ministry’s representation and reporting back to Management; o There is continuity in the Ministry’s representation.
Notwithstanding this internal arrangement, the opportunity was afforded staff of other Divisions to participate in the processes coordinated by these sectors as appropriate in relation to Divisional functions. For example, the opportunity was open to staff of the DFY, DFW and DFIA staff to participate in certain MNRE meetings and/or training processes which may have implications on women, youth and Pulenuu.
The CEO continued to represent the Ministry in certain Statutory Boards and Steering Committees.
The participation and representation of the MWCSD staff at other Ministries’ meetings, processes and programmes were ideal opportunities not only to contribute to, but to articulate its own interests as well as those of villages and communities in the developments within other Government agencies.
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SECTION 5: CONSTRAINTS
Reflecting back to the Ministry’s journey since 2003, after five consecutive years of moulding, guidance and strive to deliver its services in the most effective and efficient way through an integrated system and culture, harmonization within the Ministry is noted to have been achieved to a large degree. .
Unfortunately, despite the implementation of robust coordination within the Ministry’s working environment, a number of challenges beyond the Ministry’s control continued to be experienced during this reporting period. The scattered locations of the Ministry’s Divisions continued to be an obstacle in terms of effective management and efficient administration. Staff shortage and budgetary constraints continued to impact negatively on the implementation of activities.
The Division for Women identified its challenges and issues as reflected in its Six Monthly Monitoring, Evaluation and Planning Processes. • The lack of the availability of resources; an outcome to this is that staff had the opportunity to apply their skills in the prioritization of activities and making negotiations amongst themselves on how to handle this challenge. • The exercise of compiling and creating databases, where unfortunately, the Division for Women do not have IT experts with the specialized skill or knowledge for the different types of data collected, nor technical assistance from the IT staff of the Ministry, facing limitations in terms of staffing and resourcing. Fortunately, staff was able to meet their targets and it was a reflection of the strong teamwork and effective leadership within the Division. • The change in the programmatic approach to the UNICEF Child Protection Programme; the new approach has taken away the coordination role of the Ministry to coordinate the UNICEF Child Protection Programme, and the fact that the programme implementation is also very slow compared to the pace of the implementation under PCP. Although it is a challenge for the MWCSD after six (6) years of being the lead agency, it is an opportunity for other stakeholders for children to make stronger the existing linkages to the child protection programme by making use of the assistance from UNICEF.
The Division for Printing continued to rely on experience and in-house training for its staff due to the continuous absence of technical training in Samoa, to enable upskilling of staff with regards to technologies the Division is currently using, and the swift changes in modern technologies to enable the Division to compete in the Printing industry.
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SECTION 6:
MWCSD BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007 - 2008
Output Output Description Allocation Number amount Output 1 Office of the Chief Executive Officer Policy advice to the Minister (includes allowances for Pulenuu, Committees, Women Advisory Committees, Komiti o le Faleula etc) $997,133 Output 2 Honorable Minister’s Office Ministerial Support $234,779 Output 3 Division for Women (Advancement of Women Services) $1,628,770 Output 4 Division for Women (Protection of Children Services) $494,029 Output 5 Division for Internal Affairs (Village Based Development Services) $2,153,597 Output 6 Division for Youth (Youth Development Services) $1,051,770 Output 7 Division for Printing (Printing Services) $54,075 Output 8 Division for Research, Policy Planning & Information Processing $525,518 SUBTOTAL OUTPUTS DELIVERED BY MWCSD $7,139,671
TRANSACTIONS ON BEHALF OF THE STATE Membership Fees & Grants Commonwealth Youth Program $42,899 Commemorative Events / Days Mothers Day of Samoa $10,000 National Youth Week $40,000 Fuataga o le Ie o le Malo $100,000 Fathers Day of Samoa $10,000 Government Policies / Initiatives Village Plantation Access Roads $500,000 Rent & Leases: Minister’s Office $370,255 VAGST Output Tax $989,963
SUBTOTAL TRANSACTIONS ON BEHALF OF THE STATE $2,063,117
TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS $9,202,788
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The MWCSD would like to acknowledge the support and commitment of Government and in particular our Minister Afioga Fiame Mataafa Mulinuu II for leading the Ministry of Women Community and Social Development in its fifth year of operation since the merge in 2003.
The Ministry also wished to acknowledge the support and cooperation received from Government Ministries, Corporations, Private Sector, Church Organisations, Non- Government Organisations and Civil Society.
Special acknowledgement must be noted of the Ministry’s key stakeholders in the villages and communities, the chiefs and orators (alii ma faipule), village mayors, government women representatives and women’s committees, youth leaders and youth groups of various churches and community representatives. As well, the contribution by the various Committees of the Ministry - Komiti o le Faleula o Samoa, Pulenuu Executives Committees (Upolu and Savaii) and Youth Directors Working Group - needed to be acknowledged with much gratitude.
The Ministry thanked in particular the assistance of all its donors and funding agencies. The MWCSD anticipated their continuous support in the future. Last but not the least, the untiring efforts and hard work of the MWCSD Management and Staff is acknowledged with sincere gratitude and appreciation.
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ACRONYMS
ACEO - Assistant Chief Executive Officer ANM - Aiga ma Nuu Manuia CAN - Child, Abuse, Neglect CDS - Community Development Services CEDAW - Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women CETC - Community Education Training Centre CEO - Chief Executive Officer CRC - Convention on the Rights of the Child CYP - Commonwealth Youth Programmes DFCS - Division for Corporate Services DFIA - Division for Internal Affairs DFP - Division for Printing DFRPPIP - Division for Research Policy Planning and Information Processing DFW - Division for Women DFY - Division for Youth FFS - Future Farmers of Samoa FMFM 11 - Fiame Mataafa Faumuina Mulinuu II FY - Financial Year GWR - Government Women Representative HECA - Health, Environment, Children Alliance HIV /AIDS - Human Immune Deficiency Virus / Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome IDSS - International Development Support Services IRETA - Institute for Research and Extension Training Agriculture JICA - Japan International Cooperation Aid MWCSD - Ministry of Women Community and Social Development MESC - Ministry of Education Sports and Culture MNRE - Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment MJCA - Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration MOH - Ministry of Health MPPF - Ministry of Police, Prison and Fire Services MWTI - Ministry of Works, Transportations and Infrastructure NCCRC - National Council for CRC. NGOs - Non Government Organizations NUS - National University of Samoa NWEC - National Women’s Education Centre (Japan) PC - Personal Computer PCP - Pacific Children’s Program PSC - Public Service Commission PCV - Peace Corps Volunteer POA - Plan of Action SBEC - Small Business Enterprises Centre
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SDS - Strategy for Development of Samoa SGS - Small Grants Scheme SES - Samoa Economic Strategy SITAN - Situational Analysis SNYP - Samoa National Youth SPA - Samoa Ports Authority SPC - Secretariat of the Pacific Community SQA - Samoa Qualification Authority SSFHSS - Samoa Family Health and Safety Study TALAVOU - Towards a Legacy of Achievement Versatility and Opportunity through Unity UNDP - United Nations Development Program UNFPA - United Nation Population Fund UNIFEM - United Nations Fund for Women UNESCO - United Nations Educational Scientific Cultural Organization UNCRC - United Nation Childs Rights Convention USP - University of the South Pacific VAC - Violence Against Children VBD - Village Based Development
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