“Service is not measured by how busy we are, it is measured by how we deliver”

2026-02-07 - 01:49

“Service is not measured by how busy we are it is measured by how responsibly and respectfully we deliver. When we honour time, we honour people. When we honour people, we strengthen the nation.” Those are the words of Hon Moefa’auouo Julius Ah Kui Tafuna’i to the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development (MWCSD) as they gathered for a whole-of-ministry mid-term review of the first six months of the financial year. “The Ministry has concluded a powerful two-day • Reflect • Review • Reset – bringing together all divisions to assess performance over the past six months, and realign for stronger, more disciplined delivery in the months ahead.” “The session was both affirming and honest – a safe space for divisions to present achievements, acknowledge challenges, and identify where systems, coordination, customer service and project management can be strengthened.” Over the past six months, MWCSD has delivered significant national impact, including: • 80% of staff trained in GBV 101, strengthening prevention and response capacity; • Release of Achievement, Community and Impact Pulse Reports, reinforcing transparency and evidence-based reporting; • Millions reached through community engagement platforms; • Coordination of strong hands-on support from Village Representatives during the Dengue Fever response; • Successful response to printing of ballot and other election-related papers for OEC in record time • Execution of the 2nd Million and majority of the 3rd Million under the District Development Programme; • The national #SayNo Concert, engaging over 1,000 youth in person and 20,000 online. CEO Loau Donina Vaa reflected on the Ministry’s progress, and likened it to the intricacies of weaving a mat. “It feels like we wove a big fala in record time, work that would normally take much longer. When you step back, the impact is clear. When you look closely, you see where we can tighten the weave. That is not weakness that is maturity.” The Minister’s message throughout the two days was empowering and forward looking: discipline, attitude and timeliness are not administrative details they are expressions of leadership and good governance. It’s a way of showing respect for the communities we serve. Facilitated by Lemalu Sina Retzlaff, the gathering encouraged open dialogue and collective accountability. Divisions were urged to strengthen cross-collaboration, refine project tracking systems, and ensure consistent professionalism in every interaction with the public. The Ministry leaves this reflection aligned and energized. Not simply delivering, but delivering better. MWCSD remains committed to excellence in service, strengthened teamwork, and continued impact for families, villages and districts across Samoa.