Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Environment & Ecology Bureau today convened a special meeting of the interdepartmental Pest Control Steering Committee.

 

It urged relevant departments to strengthen anti-mosquito measures after the first locally acquired case of chikungunya fever (CF) was recorded recently.

 

The committee heard from the Centre for Health Protection (CHP), the Food & Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD), the Home Affairs Department, the Housing Department, and others, on ways to prevent CF from taking root locally.

 

Hong Kong has recorded a total of 47 CF cases so far this year. One male patient with underlying chronic diseases passed away, but the remaining cases all showed only mild symptoms.

 

In light of the first local case being detected, the CHP, co-operating with various other departments and organisations, will initiate infection control measures in an effort to prevent CF from taking root locally and to minimise the public health impact of the disease in Hong Kong.

 

This includes providing medical surveillance and health advice to household contacts of the case and anyone with common exposure to the source of infection. The centre will arrange for laboratory testing if such individuals present with symptoms.

 

Besides carrying out questionnaire surveys, the CHP has set up a health consultation booth at Fung Tak Shopping Centre, Fung Tak Estate, where the local case was reported, to provide assessments to any residents with symptoms. An inquiry hotline, 2125 2373, has also been set up.

 

Together with the FEHD, the centre has inspected locations near the patient’s residence, and conducted vector investigations and mosquito control operations, to minimise the risk of local transmission. It has also issued letters to doctors, hospitals, schools and institutions, providing the latest information on CF and reminding them to stay vigilant.

 

In the meeting, the FEHD reported on mosquito infestation conditions in the area where the case was detected, and on follow-up actions taken, including intensive fogging in scrubby areas within a 250m radius of relevant locations in order to kill adult mosquitoes.

 

During the Chung Yeung Festival, the department will enhance cleaning and mosquito prevention efforts at public cemeteries and columbaria.

 

People should clear stagnant water and refuse after tomb-sweeping to prevent mosquito breeding. Managers of private cemeteries have also been urged to implement mosquito prevention measures.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

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[PRESS RELEASE Apia, Samoa] – The National University of Samoa welcomes a visiting delegation from Slovakia, Italy, Vanuatu and Fiji today as part of an ongoing EU funded research project on Agritourism Research Project. The AGRI-TOUR (Agritourism) Project aims to strengthen the capacity of EU-Pacific Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to promote the application of Green Deal Principles across the Pacific Island region. It seeks to enhance HEI curricula by fostering stronger synergies between agriculture and tourism, and by encouraging the adoption of agritourism practices throughout the Pacific.

The AGRI-TOUR partnerships comprises eight core partners and four newcomers, The eight core partners are, SUA – Slovenská Poľnohospodárska Univerzita v Nitre (Slovakia), UNISG – Università degli Studi di Scienze Gastronomiche (Italy), IVI – Igor Vitale International SRL (Italy), NUS – National University of Samoa (Samoa), USP – University of the South Pacific (Fiji), NUV – National University of Vanuatu (Vanuatu), FNU – Fiji National University (Fiji) and NEW EDU NO (Slovakia)

Vice Chancellor & President Afioga Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Amosa and members of the NUS management team met with the group to discuss ongoing project activities and opportunities for collaboration under the Agritourism agenda. In her remarks, Professor Tuifuisa’a highlighted that the project aligns closely with NUS’s institutional pillar of community and stakeholder engagement, one of the university’s key strategic goals.

At the National University of Samoa, the AGRI-TOUR Project is coordinated by the Faculty of Science (FOS) in collaboration with the Faculty of Business and Entrepreneurship (FOBE). Over its three-year duration, concluding in 2027, the AGRI-TOUR Project will deliver the following core outcomes:

1. EU-Pacific Alliance HEI International Offices Task Force.

2. Joint Research Initiative.

3. Multidisciplinary Massive Open Online Course (MOOC)

4. Internship Protocol.

The visit marks an important step in reinforcing NUS’s engagement in global research and aligns competently with its vision to advance in research and to contribute to Samoa and the Pacific’s development through evidence-based research.

END

The National University of Samoa

October 27, 2025

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[PRESS RELEASE]- Apia, Samoa, 11 October 2025] – The Government of Samoa yesterday met with representatives of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Samoa to convey its heartfelt condolences following the passing of President Russell M. Nelson, who served as the global leader of the Church from 2018 to 2025.

The government delegation was led by Agafili Tomaimano Shem Leo, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet Secretary, who presented flowers and an official note of condolence in the form of a Diplomatic Note to be forwarded to the Church Headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Receiving the government’s condolences were Elder Faalogo of the Seventy, Fuimaono Tuugalei Lesa (Local Members Support Manager), Fuimaono Teo (Communications Council Member), and Faaofonuʻu Tumanuvao Evile Falefatu (Director of Communications for Samoa).

On behalf of the Church, Brother Falefatu expressed deep appreciation to the Government of Samoa for its kind gesture and thoughtful acknowledgment of President Nelson’s lifetime of service to the world and to the people of Samoa. Elder Faalogo formally accepted the Government’s gift on behalf of the Church.

President Nelson last visited Samoa in May 2019, a year after his ordination as the 17th President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

ENDS

CAPTION

CEO Ministry of Prime Minister and Cabinet Agafili Tomaimano Shem Leo, officials and Elder Faalogo of the Seventy, Fuimaono Tuugalei Lesa.

[May 18, 2019]- During his Pacific Islands tour the late President Russell M. Nelson in Samoa, met le afioga ile Ao Mamalu o le malo, the Head Of State Afioga Tuimalealiʻifano Vaʻaletoʻa Sualauvi ll

October 27, 2025

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[PRESS RELEASE 15 October 2025 Apia, Samoa] – The Women’s Driving License Programme was officially launched on Friday, 10 October, offering free driving lessons to 200 women across Samoa, together with an Electric Vehicle (EV) awareness course.

The launch event, held at the Land Transport Authority (LTA) premises in Vaitele, brought together training participants, officials from LTA and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Ambassador of Japan. Participants from Savai’i joined the event virtually.

Implemented by LTA, in partnership with UNDP, the Women’s Driving License Programme is part of the Climate Action Pathways for Island Transport (CAP-IT) project, funded by the Government of Japan. The project supports Samoa’s efforts to decarbonize its transport sector – a critical step as the Pacific faces the intensifying impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels and increasingly severe cyclones, floods, and droughts.

Although Samoa contributes only a fraction to global greenhouse gas emissions, it continues to lead by example, demonstrating that climate ambition must be shared globally. Reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels not only cuts emissions but also strengthens Samoa’s energy security and economic resilience against volatile oil prices. Transport remains the country’s largest emitting sector, and the shift towards electric mobility offers a clear path toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Beyond its environmental goals, the CAP-IT project has also shed light on a persistent gender gap in driving license ownership. Over the past two decades, only one in four driving licenses issued in Samoa have gone to women – a disparity with important social and economic implications. Mobility means more than just movement; it represents freedom, opportunity, and empowerment. When women are unable to drive, they face additional barriers to leave their home and access employment, education, and essential services. This programme aims to reduce that gender gap, while also improving road safety by providing formal driving instruction and certification to women who may be driving unlicensed.

“Transport is not just about infrastructure – it’s about access, opportunity, and equity. When women are equipped to drive, they gain mobility, independence, and a stronger voice in their communities. That’s why LTA is pleased to be co-implementing this programme alongside UNDP, with funding from the Government of Japan. This initiative also supports our broader goals: advancing green transport solutions, including electric vehicle training; promoting fair geographic representation across Upolu and Savaii; and fostering long-term inclusion in the transport sector,” said Sagauga Leilani Galuvao, Chief Executive Officer, LTA.

A recent CAP-IT survey revealed that up to 60% of Samoans expressed interest in purchasing an EV within the next year, with interest higher among men. However, women play an equally essential role in driving this transition. Women are not passive beneficiaries, they play a key role in managing household decisions and can champion clean energy practices within families, communities, and workplaces. To support this, an Electric Vehicle Awareness Course has been integrated into LTA’s driving training. Participants will learn about EV technology, its environmental and health benefits, and its long-term cost advantages, while addressing common misconceptions about performance and safety.

“We aim to help bridge the gender gap while teaching about new forms of transport. As technologies like electric vehicles gain momentum across the islands, it is crucial that everyone – women and men alike – understands the opportunities they bring,” said Paolo Dalla Stella, Deputy Resident Representative, UNDP.

The launch of this programme showed high interest among Samoan women, with over 500 applications received in less than a week. To ensure fairness, participants were selected through a public draw for Upolu applicants, where applications exceeded available slots.

This milestone marks another step toward building a more sustainable and inclusive transport future for Samoa.

END.

UNDP in Samoa, Cook Islands, Tokelau & Niue

Land Transport Authority – Samoa

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PRESS RELEASE, October 16th, 2025] – Conservation International (CI) signed a 5-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Apia Export Fish Packers Ltd. and the Tautai Samoa Association to advance Pacific Tuna Jurisdictional Initiatives in Samoa while simultaneously supporting the Samoa Ocean Strategy 2030.

The signing, which was held at the CI-Samoa Office, marked a milestone collaboration between CI and the private sector, an exciting step towards advancing sustainable tuna fisheries management in Samoa aimed at achieving 100% management and 30% protection of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) by 2030.

Under this MoU, the partners will work together to strengthen environmental, social, and economic performance across Samoa’s offshore tuna fisheries—particularly the South Pacific albacore fishery—through the implementation of science-based tools, policy alignment, and market-driven improvements.

The partnership will also focus on enhancing collaboration between government, industry, and civil society to support sustainable ocean management, as well as promote the use of diagnostic tools to improve fishery performance, explore market opportunities and certification pathways that recognize responsible fishing practices and add value to Samoa’s tuna products while supporting human rights and ensuring decent work conditions in Samoa’s fishing sector in line with international standards informed by the local context.

This MoU has opened a new pathway for relevant partners to collaborate and work towards a shared vision of sustainably managing Samoa’s tuna fisheries and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). It reinforces collective efforts toward maintaining well-managed, climate-resilient tuna stocks, ensuring environmental sustainability and social responsibility across Samoa’s fishing sector, and driving innovation that enhances value creation and livelihood opportunities for communities that depend on these resources.

The Jurisdictional Approach (JA) for Pacific Tuna Project is being implemented in Samoa, Fiji, Palau, and New Caledonia and aims to strengthen tuna governance and sustainability through integrated policy and market approaches that benefit both people and nature.

END.

Conservation International Pacific Islands

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KEYNOTE by the Hon. Minister of Statistics, Moefaauouo Julius Ah Kui Tafunai

Lau susuga Reverend Ma’auga Motu,

Afioga, Honorable Deputy Prime Minister(s),

Afioga Honorable Ministers of Cabinet,

Associate Ministers,

Members of the Diplomatic Core,

Heads of Government Ministers and Corporations,

Members of the Business Community,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

TALOFA LAVA, FAAMALO LE SOIFUA.

It is my great pleasure to give the keynote address for this very important occasion, to commemorate and celebrate the 2025 World Statistics Day.

As we are all well aware, statistical information as a public good has been and will always be key to any successful development of policy and planning across all aspects of governance. Its significant role in providing evidence-based decision making, on all levels of development cannot be understated.

Today’s occasion marks the fourth celebration of the World Statistics Day, since the first event on the 20th October 2010. The theme for today is “Driving change with quality statistics for everyone”. It highlights the vital role of quality and trusted data and statistics in navigating today’s complex environment. High-quality statistics empower citizens, policymakers, business and the community to make informed decisions, and shining light on challenges that might otherwise remain unseen, while supporting the Government’s mission to leave no one behind.

In today’s world, high-quality statistics are more important than ever before. Statistics are more than numbers – they are the foundation for informed decisions, effective policy, and sustainable development. Therefore, quality data and statistics must be accessible to everyone, and not just experts, Government and institutions. It is our belief that when quality and reliable data reach communities in every segment of the society, they empower informed decisions at all levels.

Today’s program showcase how statistical systems are developing to meet today’s challenges. We have different stalls outside showcasing different types of statistics by domain. A display of new digital system and infrastructures that fosters and facilitates the collection, compilation, analysis and dissemination of statistics, including the development of our Samoa National Identification. Furthermore, today’s event is also intended to foster strong collaboration amongst stakeholders and inspire the next generation of statistics and data professionals.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Statistics has been one of the Samoan government’s priorities over many years, and will continue to do so in the future. The Government, in partnership with development partners and international agencies, invested a great deal in the development of statistics, and has been part of its reform program agenda for the past years. As a result, Samoa has made significant progress over the years and performs comparatively well in terms of the production and dissemination of social, economic, monetary, environment and sector statistics. Samoa is considered one of the leaders in the Asia-Pacific Region in promoting and developing statistical capacity, adopting new methods, compliance with international standards, all while keeping developments within the Samoan context.

This is evident in Samoa’s compliance to the Enhanced General Data Dissemination Standard, a data quality assessment framework monitored by the International Monetary Fund and other international agencies, and the successful completion of Samoa’s 3rd Voluntary National Review report for the SDG 2030, marking a few important milestones in its journey of development.

On the domestic front, statistics have been made available on a timely basis, on various platforms including social media, and on different subject matters ranging from social, economic, monetary, environment as well as sector statistics. These have been key in the development of policies and plans, as well as monitoring progress made on development projects at the national and sector levels.

However, in any phase of development, there are always challenges that tend to hamper progress, and Samoa is not immune to these. The travel and SOE restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic imposed significant challenges on socio-economic developments in our country, with the economic hardships of that time underscoring a greater need for social protection.

As a result, there was huge pressure on statistical methods and procedures, the statistics and ICT infrastructures, and subsequently, the institutional arrangements and organizational structure in which the Bureau and the statistical system operate. This was on top of the increasing demand on indicators and the greater need for more dis-aggregated statistics imposed by the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, as well as the increased importance of the need for good governance, transparency and accountability.

All these challenges underpin the drive to improve relevance, data quality, reliability and timeliness of statistics for decision making. The challenge was enormous and have exceeded the production capacity of the statistical system.

Therefore, as we celebrate the many achievements we made over the years in statistics development, today, let us also be reminded that uncertainties and risks remain to be in the horizon. In that regard, we should be alert and cooperate in building a statistical system that provides quality and trusted statistics, to inform policy and decision making for the benefit of all citizens of Samoa.

As Minister for Statistics, I would like to acknowledge the continuous support from all our donor partners, who have actively been part of the statistical developments in one way or another. We look forward to working with you all in the future, in developing a stronger and more resilient statistical system, that provides trusted and valued statistics as foundation for evidence policy and decision making for the benefit of Samoa.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let me congratulate you all for your many roles and contributions to statistics development in Samoa. I also extend a word of thanks to the Statistics Advisory Board for their guidance and support in this very important work.

Last but not least, I acknowledge with great appreciation the staff and management of the Bureau of Statistics for their commitment and dedication in the coordination of the statistical system, as well as leading the statistics production and dissemination in Samoa. You have set the data standards in our region and may you all continue to rise above any challenges that may come your way. May God guide and strengthen your passion and commitment in developing resilient statistical systems as part of Samoa’s economic journey.

Finally, let me re-emphasize the importance of the theme for today’s World Statistics Day that is “Driving change with quality statistics for everyone”. I encourage everyone to be part of the change in the development of our economy and society, through quality and trusted data as the foundation of effective decision and policy making. With that I extend to you all a “Happy World Statistics Day”.

Soifua ma ia manuia.

October 27, 2025

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[PRESS RELEASE, 23 October 2025] – We are delighted to share that the Department of Media and Communication, under the Faculty of Arts at the National University of Samoa (NUS), has received a generous donation of professional media equipment from BBC Media Action on the 17th July 2025. This vital contribution is set to significantly enhance the learning environment for students enrolled in the Media and Journalism program, providing them with access to essential tools that will bolster their educational experience and better prepare them for real-world media careers.

The donation package includes a variety of industry-standard items such as professional-grade video cameras, spare batteries, camera lights, memory cards, high-quality headphones, sturdy tripods, and cable reels. These resources are critical for hands-on training and will be integrated into both classroom lessons and fieldwork assignments. The practical exposure student’s gain by working with this equipment will allow them to translate theoretical knowledge into real-world media production skills.

With these new tools at their disposal, students will be able to:

• Produce high-quality video and audio content, elevating the standards of their coursework and projects.

• Engage in immersive field reporting, capturing stories from diverse communities and issues across Samoa.

• Develop multimedia storytelling skills that combine visuals, sound, and narrative, essential for modern journalism.

• Familiarize themselves with professional workflows and technical requirements that mirror those used in leading media organizations worldwide.

Saui’a Dr. Louise Matai’a Milo, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the donation: “This contribution addresses a long-standing need within our Faculty. Many of our students have faced challenges in accessing appropriate equipment for their assignments and practical learning. Thanks to BBC Media Action, we can now provide a more comprehensive, hands-on education that equips our students with the skills and confidence to thrive in a competitive media landscape.”

The students have also voiced their enthusiasm and appreciation for the enhanced resources: “It’s exciting to finally have access to the type of equipment we’ve only studied in theory,” said Tiitii Afia Tiitii, a third-year Journalism major. “Having professional cameras and other gear will transform how we approach our assignments and prepare us more effectively for careers in media.”

The Media and Journalism Programme lecturer, Yumi Talaave also expressed her appreciation for the donation given to the Faculty.

“We are incredibly grateful to BBC Media Action for their generous donation of professional media equipment to our Department of Media and Communication. This support is invaluable in enhancing the practical learning opportunities available to our students. Access to industry-standard tools is essential for preparing our future journalists to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Thanks to BBC Media Action, our students can now gain hands-on experience with equipment that reflects what they will encounter in the field, giving them a competitive edge as they transition into their careers. This partnership not only strengthens our academic program but also reinforces our shared commitment to building a vibrant, skilled media community in Samoa.

On behalf of the faculty and students, I extend our heartfelt thanks for this impactful contribution and look forward to continuing collaboration in the future.”

This donation aligns with BBC Media Action’s ongoing global commitment to fostering media development, education, and capacity building. By investing in future media professionals, they help ensure that the next generation of journalists and communicators are not only knowledgeable but also proficient in using the tools and techniques necessary for impactful storytelling and responsible journalism.

The Faculty of Arts extends its sincere thanks to BBC Media Action for this generous support. The partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration in strengthening media education and empowering students to contribute meaningfully to the development of media in Samoa and beyond. Both institutions look forward to continued engagement aimed at nurturing talent and innovation in the field of media and communication.

END.

ThThe National University of Samoa

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Meeting between the Prime Minister Hon Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt and NZ Minister of Foreign Affairs Rt Hon Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters.

19 October 2025 – Samoa Consulate General Mangere Auckland

[Press Release]-The bilateral meeting was requested by Rt Hon Winston Peters and organized by the Samoa High Commission in Wellington to utilize the opportunity of meeting with the Prime Minister Hon Laaulialemalietoa while in New Zealand.

The meeting focused on priority issues raised by Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa pertaining to the wellbeing of Samoan people in Samoa as well as the diaspora under the aegis of the Treaty of Friendship.

Emphasis was placed on the importance of the District Development Program to provide meaningful opportunities for the Samoan people to ensure ownership and determination of their sustainable development pathways.

Discussions pointed to ways to facilitate travel by way of easier and least cost visa processing for short term visitations, the vision for sustainable worker schemes and scope for benefits for Samoans now eligible for NZ citizenship.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa also requested the help of NZ through ways to curb drug trafficking at the borders and at entry points into the country, as well as enhanced capacity building for border control authorities.

A request was also raised to look at ways by which visiting medical experts schemes can provide treatment in country thus cutting down on costs for overseas medical treatment.

Acknowledgement was also made of the compensation funds provided for the Safata district as a result of the Manawanui sinking.

In response Rt Hon Winston Peters acknowledged the challenges faced by Samoa and indicated his further review of existing practices and identify areas where NZ can further assist bilaterally or through regional programs.

The meeting was attended by senior advisers to Minister Peters Mr Michael Appleton and Mr Jon Johansson and Consul General Auckland Afemata Palusalue Lemalu and Vice Consul Dorothy Ah Ching.

October 27, 2025