Samoa has launched a four-year, $2 million agricultural project aimed at improving food security, nutrition, and livelihoods through sustainable agroecosystems.
Speaking at the Taumeasina Island Resort on Tuesday, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Hon. Niu’ava Eti Leatiogie Malolo Funefeai said the project will be delivered through the leadership of three key Producer Organisations: Samoa Federated Farmers Incorporated (SFFI), Samoa Women Association of Growers (SWAG), and the Samoa Apiculture Organisation (SAO).
Funded by the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP), the initiative targets four value chains: poultry, cocoa, seaweed, and beekeeping across rural communities.
“This is a major milestone for our small island developing state,” said the Minister. “It’s rare for GAFSP grants to be awarded to multiple organisations, and the fact that we have secured support for three speaks volumes of their capacity and vision.”
Under the project:
- SFFI will scale up free-range chicken farming and improve cocoa processing for commercial markets.
- SWAG will lead an organic seaweed fertiliser initiative, empowering rural women and promoting sustainable farming.
- SAO will boost honey production and strengthen pollination for fruit, vegetable, and cocoa crops.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF) will chair the Project Steering Committee to ensure strong coordination and oversight throughout the project.
The project supports Samoa’s national plans, including the Agriculture and Fisheries Sector Plan, Food Systems Pathway, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Hon. Niu’ava thanked the GAFSP, FAO, and local producer organisations.
“Let this launch begin a new chapter in Samoa’s agricultural transformation — farmer led, environmentally sound, inclusive, and resilient,” he said.
