The Government’s goal is to grow sustainable development for families and villages, ensuring Samoa’s economic future.
Today, representatives of the Constituency Committees from Vaimauga #1, Palauli #2, Satupa’itea, Gagaifomauga #2, and Fa’asaleleaga #5 signed agreements to receive the first 16% of their third “million” allocation for ongoing constituency development projects.
The Honourable Minister for Women, Community and Social Development, Lagaaia Ti’aitu’au Tufuga, signed on behalf of the Government and witnessed the agreement signing to release the funds to the designated constituencies.
Following a government audit review that confirmed satisfactory use of the second million by these constituencies, the Special Committee overseeing the Million Dollar Project approved the release of 16%, equivalent to $160,000, from the third million. This funding is intended for running constituency offices and staff salaries.
An additional $540,000 from the third million has also been allocated to kickstart development projects planned for these constituencies.
In his keynote remarks, the Minister reminded the Constituency Committee officers present of the importance of the Government’s partnership with local governance, including village councils.
“The project is progressing well for the benefit of our people. Our Government does not rely on anyone else but on the men and women of our constituencies—on the elected committees, village councils, and all our people, who hold skills, talents, and the desire to serve. This is an opportunity to also engage our youth living in the constituencies.
“The Government’s intent is to strictly follow constitutional procedures—we cannot allow the programme to be implemented loosely. We must follow the proper framework.
“We also remind the constituency committees to submit their reports promptly. Once received, the Special Committee can review them and release the remaining funds for development.
“The ultimate goal is to ensure there are enough resources for the operation of constituency offices and to carry out essential projects for the wellbeing of our people.”
This article was originally published by Savali Newspaper on its FB page in Sāmoan and has been republished with permission.
