Apia, Samoa – The Samoa Airport Authority has received new aviation security equipment from New Zealand, aimed at enhancing border security at Faleolo international airport. The equipment, valued at NZD$2 million, was officially handed over in a ceremony on Thursday.
The donation includes five dual-view XRAY systems for scanning passenger baggage and cargo, a CT scanner for 3D imaging of hold baggage, three explosive trace detection systems, and three walk-through metal detectors. New Zealand will also provide service and maintenance support for the next three years.
In her speech at the handover ceremony, Fiame expressed the government’s appreciation for the ongoing support from New Zealand. “On behalf of the Government of the Independent State of Samoa, I gratefully accept this gift and extend our sincere thanks to the Government of New Zealand for its continued support in the field of civil aviation,” she said.
The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of the new equipment in strengthening Samoa’s national security, particularly as the country prepares to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in three months. “The timely arrival of this equipment is crucial as we prepare to host this significant event,” she noted.
“Samoa and New Zealand have long enjoyed mutual respect and friendship, and this donation is another testament to the enduring partnership between our countries.”
The donation is part of a broader initiative by New Zealand to enhance aviation security across the Pacific region. Similar equipment has already been delivered to Niue and Kiribati, with Tonga and the Solomon Islands set to receive theirs shortly.
“We deeply appreciate New Zealand’s continued assistance in enhancing aviation security in Samoa,” PM concluded.
