Samoa marked International Day for Persons with Disabilities with a two-day event focused on strengthening inclusion, support systems, and community participation for people living with disabilities.
The commemoration, held at Taumeasina Island Resort, was opened by Minister for Women, Community and Social Development, Moefaauouo Julius Ah Kui Tafunai, under the global theme 'Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress - Rise Beyond the Challenges'.
In his opening remarks, Mr Tafunai said the theme was a reminder of Samoa's shared responsibility to create a society where everyone can participate fully.
He said the day was about recognising progress while reflecting on the work that remains.
"Nearly ten years since Samoa ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, we have made progress," he said.
Mr Tafunai noted improvements in accessibility, awareness and opportunities, with 2,782 people with disabilities now supported through the National Disability Scheme, where the benefit has increased from $100 to $300.
He also said 20 per cent of every District Development Project is now dedicated to gender equality, disability and social inclusion.
"These achievements reflect real commitment but they also remind us that our work is not yet finished," he said.
The Minister acknowledged the leadership of Pacific Disability Forum and General Manager of Nuanua o le Alofa (NOLA) chair, Mata'afa Faatino Utumapu, saying her work reflected strength, resilience and leadership for people with disabilities across the Pacific.
Ms Utumapu said the event was an opportunity to reflect on how inclusion is lived each day, not just spoken about.
"Real change begins with truth and with listening to the voices of people with disabilities," she said.
Mr Tafunai said the event was also "a listening day" for communities and families to share their experiences and ideas on how government and society could do better.
"Our insights will guide the National Action Plan for Persons with Disabilities, ensuring it reflects real needs and practical solutions for Samoa," he said.
Mr Tafunai thanked partners including the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade through Tautua, the United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office (UNRCO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and local organisations for their ongoing support.
Together with the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development, NOLA launched the short film 'Rise Beyond the Challenges', which celebrates the journeys and voices of persons with disabilities in Samoa.
Ms Utumapu said the film aimed to show the strength and determination of people with disabilities in everyday life.
"It's about visibility and truth-telling, showing our stories and our power to rise beyond the challenges," she said.
The launch was followed by a performance of the song 'Tafi Ese le Sauaga', promoting the elimination of violence and discrimination.
Representatives from Australia and the United Nations also addressed the gathering.
Deputy Australian High Commissioner, Claire McGeechan, acknowledged Samoa's commitment to inclusion, describing the event as "a great start to a stronger pathway of inclusive development".
The UN Resident Coordinator, Aliona Niculita, commended the Ministry's leadership and said the UN shared a common goal with Samoa.
"The Ministry's initiatives reflect a deep and genuine commitment to ensuring persons with disabilities are empowered to participate fully in shaping Samoa's future," she said.
Day one of the program focused on social protection and inclusion, featuring talanoa sessions on the National Disability Benefit Scheme and the role of organisations of persons with disabilities in community and national planning.
Day two centred on autism awareness, with sessions led by medical practitioners, educators, parent advocates, and development partners, including members of the Samoa Association of General Practitioners, Ms Utumapu, and an autism specialist who shared current research and insights.
A second talanoa provided a platform for parents and caregivers of autistic children to share personal experiences, challenges, and sources of support.
Their stories highlighted the importance of community understanding, compassion, and inclusion, showing how the experiences of raising children with autism have reshaped family life and perspectives across churches, schools and local communities.
The dialogue emphasised collective action to strengthen services and promote inclusion.
Mr Tafunai reaffirmed the government's commitment to removing barriers and supporting the wellbeing of all people, saying "o le tele o lima e mamā ai se avega", meaning many hands make a burden lighter.
As the two day commemoration concluded, the Ministry reiterated that every Samoan, regardless of ability, is valued and empowered to participate fully in national life.
