Empowering Nofotane Women Entrepreneurs: A Partnership for Economic Resilience

Introduction

In the heart of the Pacific Islands, Samoa stands as a testament to the resilience and cultural richness of its people. However, within this vibrant tapestry lies a marginalized group of women known as the Nofotane – indigenous women who, upon marriage, leave their home villages to reside in their husbands’ communities. This transition often comes with a loss of decision-making power within the household and an increased risk of violence.

To address these challenges and foster economic empowerment, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) has joined forces with the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG) in a six-month partnership focused on strengthening the business skills of Nofotane women entrepreneurs. This collaborative effort aims to equip 100 aspiring or current Nofotane entrepreneurs from remote and rural areas of Samoa with the critical skills and resources they need to promote business sustainability and achieve economic independence.

Nofotane Women: Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities

Nofotane women face unique obstacles that hinder their full participation in economic activities. Limited access to decision-making processes within their households and communities often restricts their ability to control financial resources and make informed choices. Additionally, the geographic isolation of remote and rural areas can limit their access to markets, information, and training opportunities.

Despite these challenges, Nofotane women possess a wealth of traditional knowledge, skills, and cultural heritage that can be harnessed for economic empowerment. Their deep understanding of local resources, coupled with their resilience and determination, provides a solid foundation for entrepreneurship.

SVSG/ESCAP Nofotane Business Development Training: A Pathway to Economic Resilience

The SVSG/ESCAP Nofotane Business Development Training project is designed to economically empower Nofotane women by providing them with critical business skills and knowledge. The project will focus on three core modules:

1. Financial Literacy and Access to Finance:

This module will equip participants with the skills to manage their finances effectively, including budgeting, savings, and accessing formal and informal sources of financing.

2. Marketing Nofotane Products:

Participants will learn how to identify and target potential customers, develop effective marketing strategies, and leverage digital platforms to promote their Nofotane products.

3. Assessing the Quality of Nofotane Products:

This module will provide participants with the knowledge and skills to assess the quality of their Nofotane products, ensuring that they meet market standards and customer expectations.

Implementation and Impact:

The training content will be delivered through two-day workshops, reaching a total of 100 Nofotane women entrepreneurs from both Savaii and Upolu. Following the training sessions, six selected entrepreneurs with promising business cases will receive seed funding of US$500 each to expand their existing businesses or launch new ventures producing Nofotane products.

These entrepreneurs will also benefit from mentorship and coaching sessions provided by experienced SVSG Village Representatives, ensuring ongoing support and guidance as they navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.

A Collaborative Approach to Sustainable Economic Empowerment:

The SVSG/ESCAP Nofotane Business Development Training project is a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities. By combining the expertise and resources of ESCAP, SVSG, and the Nofotane women themselves, the project aims to create a lasting impact on the economic empowerment of these resilient entrepreneurs.

This initiative aligns with ESCAP’s Catalyzing Women’s Entrepreneurship (CWE) programme, which supports women’s entrepreneurship across six countries in the Asia-Pacific region. The CWE programme is funded by Global Affairs Canada and seeks to break down barriers faced by women entrepreneurs in establishing, managing, and developing enterprises.

Conclusion: A Brighter Future for Nofotane Women Entrepreneurs

The SVSG/ESCAP Nofotane Business Development Training project represents a significant step towards economic empowerment and resilience for Nofotane women entrepreneurs in Samoa. By providing them with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to succeed, the project aims to create a ripple effect that positively impacts their families, communities, and the entire Samoan economy.

As these women embrace entrepreneurship and unlock their economic potential, they become beacons of hope and inspiration for future generations, demonstrating that resilience and determination can overcome adversity and create a brighter future for all.