A notable achievement was reached on Friday in Apia as the inaugural meeting of the Commonwealth Women's Forum Technical Experts Group convened. 

The event was inaugurated by the esteemed presence of the Minister for the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development (M.W.C.S.D.), Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molioo, who delivered a poignant address highlighting the indispensable role of solidarity and unwavering commitment in propelling the agenda of gender equality and women’s empowerment forward.

Hosted under the auspices of the Ministry of Women, Community, and Social Development, the gathering serves as a platform to unite a diverse cohort of Samoan women leaders representing various spheres of influence, including education, leadership, law, faith, economic empowerment, and healthcare.

 Mulipola reaffirmed her resolute dedication to nurturing solidarity among Commonwealth nations, recognising it as a catalyst for bridging gender disparities and uplifting women on a global scale. 

She emphasised, “Our strength lies in our solidarity, and it is through our collective commitment that we can make significant advancements towards achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment.”

Rooted in the groundwork laid during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings (C.H.O.G.M.) in Malta in 2015 and further informed by deliberations from the 10th Commonwealth Women's Affairs Meeting (10W.A.M.M.) in 2013, the Commonwealth Women's Forum (C.W.F.) stands as a pivotal platform advocating for gender equality and human rights across the Commonwealth.

The Technical Experts Group assume a vital role in providing strategic guidance, steering the forum's content and trajectory to ensure its responsiveness to the evolving needs and challenges confronting women within the Commonwealth.

Aligned with the overarching theme of C.H.O.G.M. 2024, “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Commonwealth,” this year's forum echoes the rallying cry of "Collective Action for a Resilient Commonwealth: Solidarity for Gender Equality."

It delves into pressing issues such as women’s economic empowerment, equitable access to leadership roles, eradication of violence against women and girls, and addressing the gender dimensions of climate change.

Beyond the substantive discussions, the meeting yielded significant outcomes, including the appointment of Co-Chairs Gatoloai Tili Afamasaga and Taulapapa Brenda Latu, alongside the commitment of members to thematic sub-working groups.

The Chief Executive Officer for M.W.C.S.D., Loau Donina Va'a articulated that as caretakers, it is incumbent upon us to adopt sustainability across all facets of our existence. 

"As stewards of our planet, it is our duty to embrace sustainability in every aspect of our lives," Loau said. 

"By adopting eco-friendly practices within the Commonwealth Women's Forum, we demonstrate our commitment to preserving our environment for future generations."