NOLA convenes to track progress against Samoa’s sustainable development commitments.

"Nothing about us, without us," their guiding motto, is a testament to their determination and belief that every decision affecting persons with disabilities must be informed by their lived experiences and realities.

At the helm of NOLA  is Mataafa Fa’atino Utumapu, a strong leader who believes in the importance of unity and collaboration.  As a blind woman she is a prominent figure in Samoa, particularly known for her leadership in advocating for disability rights and empowerment.

As Samoa prepares for its third Voluntary National Review (VNR) to report on its progress towards inclusive and sustainable development as set out in the 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in June this year, Mataafa as the General Manager of NOLA, sees an opportunity to ensure that the voices of people with disabilities are not left out in this crucial process.

In collaboration with the UN Resident Coordinator Office, NOLA organized a special consultation with its members  to discuss their priorities, challenges, and recommendations to improve the lives of persons with disabilities in Samoa. 

At the opening formalities of this consultation, Mataafa gave an inspiring speech reminding everyone about the importance of including and empowering people with disabilities in this government-led process so that the actions towards sustainable development make tangible and positive differences in the lives of persons with disabilities. 

Human Rights Adviser of the UN Resident Coordinator Office, Momoko Nomura, then clarified what the global agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Goals is about, the linkages between the voluntary reporting process under this agenda and the legally-binding reporting obligation assumed by the Government of Samoa as a State party to the UN Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, as well as the opportunities available for persons with disabilities to contribute to the national process.

Participants had an in-depth discussion on the areas of progress and remaining issues to be addressed under the five SDGs that will be the focus of the review this year: SDG 1 on ending poverty; SDG 2 on eradicating hunger; SDG 13 on climate action; SDG 16 on peace, justice and strong institutions; and SDDG 17 on partnerships for sustainable development. Based on the request from government for inputs, the group also looked at SDG 3 on good health and well-being, and SDG 10 on reducing inequalities.

By the end of the workshop, there was a sense of accomplishment. 

NOLA is now prepared with a list of recommendations on key SDGs that they will present to be integrated in Samoa’s overall VNR presentation.

The consultation was an exemplification of dedication to making a difference, and ensuring that actions directed towards development benefit everyone, especially those most at risk of being left behind .