CARE International’s history in Samoa
CARE began working with partners in Samoa in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Together with local organizations including the Samoan Red Cross Society, Women in Business Development Inc. (WIBDI), and Nuanua O Le Alofa (NOLA), we CARE supported communities by distributing hygiene kits, sharing health information, and installing hand-washing stations to help prevent the spread of the virus.
Since then, CARE has continued working with local partners to help communities adapt to climate change impacts and increase economic opportunities for women.
Samoa’s islands are regularly affected by cyclones, floods, and rising sea levels. We have supported communities preparing for and recover from these disasters.
CARE and partners’ work in Samoa today
CARE works with local partners across Samoa to help communities prepare for disasters, strengthen livelihoods, and support families during emergencies. We focus on:
Climate
CARE and our partners work with communities to adapt to climate change impacts. Programs support sustainable agriculture, better water and natural resource management, and farming practices that can withstand changing weather patterns.
Crisis response
CARE works with partners to strengthen disaster preparedness and support communities affected by emergencies. Programs help ensure that disaster response efforts reach those most affected, including women, girls, and people with disabilities.
Making the economy work
We support women and communities to strengthen their livelihoods and earn a stable income. Through partnerships with local organizations, programs help women farmers and entrepreneurs develop small businesses, access markets, and improve household incomes.
CARE also works with partners including Nuanua O Le Alofa (NOLA) to support employment opportunities for people with disabilities and help ensure they can take part in community programs and economic activities.
CARE works through local partnerships to ensure programs reflect the priorities of Samoan communities and support locally led development.
Focus on women and girls
Women and girls are at the centre of CARE’s work in Samoa.
CARE works with partners such as Women in Business Development Inc. (WIBDI) to support women farmers and entrepreneurs to strengthen livelihoods and improve financial independence.
Programs help women diversify agricultural production, build small businesses, and access markets for locally produced goods such as coconut oil and other agricultural products. These initiatives help increase household income and support families and communities.
CARE also works with partners to ensure climate preparedness and disaster planning address the needs of women and girls and support their leadership in community decision-making.
By supporting women’s economic opportunities and leadership, CARE and our partners are helping communities across Samoa become stronger and better prepared for the future.
For recent updates on CARE and partners’ work in Samoa, see here.
