Clergy make input in addressing grassroots development and social issues

29 AUGUST 2023 – The Palauli 1 District Development Council has taken a proactive initiative to seek the input of the districts clergy in addressing the prevalent social issues hindering development at the grassroots level.

The Council invited all 19 Faifeau ma Faletua – church minsters and their wives from all church denominations in the district to an evening Talanoa session on Friday 18 August at the Salailua Metotisi Hall.

The session was led by the Member of Parliament and Minister of Finance, Afioga Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molio’o. The Talanoa exchange sought the input of members of the clergy on issues such as: domestic violence; youth crime including use of illegal drugs; human trafficking; and assistance for people with disabilities.

The members of the clergy were invited to not just discuss problems but to also propose solutions. The proposed solutions will be used by the District Council to formulate activities that could be implemented and funded through the Palauli 1 District Development Plan.

According to the district MP and Minister of Finance, this was a historical moment for the district as it was the first time such a cross-church denominational meeting has occurred in Palauli 1.

The Talanoa exchange in progress.

“This first Talanoa session has opened doors between and within different denominations to sit down in one place to discuss problems pertinent to families and villages within the district,” stated Mulipola.

Most importantly, “the session provided opportunities for members of the clergy to advise on practical solutions that could be implemented in partnership, by both churches and village councils; and funded through our district development plan.”

The outcome of the Talanoa session included resolutions such as:

• drafting of village by-laws to ensure churches and village councils work together to counter issues raised;
• hosting of annual youth camps and sporting events for all denominations across the district;
• and holding regular Talanoa sessions amongst members of the clergy and village councils, to encourage networking and sharing of lessons learnt within and between villages on solutions proposed during this first ever session.

“The Faifeau & Faletua play a crucial role in ensuring ‘no one is left behind’ and ensures the inclusiveness approach encouraged by the government for all to contribute to the development of the district,” said Mulipola.