The Government of Samoa launched 76 electric vehicles (EVs) as part of the Climate Action Pathways for Island Transport (CAP-IT) project during an event held at ONE UN House, Tuanaimato, on October 3, 2024. The project aims to strengthen Samoa’s climate resilience by promoting green transport and reducing emissions in the sector.
Minister of Works, Transport & Infrastructure, Honourable Olo Fiti Afoa Vaai, led the launch, stating the need for an EV fleet to support Samoa’s commitment to sustainability.
“The provision of 76 EVs to Samoa represents a monumental achievement in driving our response to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.”
He also acknowledged the alignment of the project with Samoa’s Transport and Infrastructure Sector Plan and Pathway to the Development of Samoa (PDS).
The CAP-IT project is funded by the Government of Japan through the “Promoting Green Transformation in the Pacific Region” initiative, with a total contribution of US$37.5 million across four Pacific island nations. Samoa’s share, valued at US$15.5 million, has enabled the country to procure electric vehicles and establish charging stations, public awareness campaigns, and capacity-building programs.
“Our commitment to minimize pollution, reduce waste, and lower emissions in the transport sector sustains our responsibility to safeguard our land, water, and air for future generations,” continued Vaai.
He noted that the project includes technical support for both land and maritime transport systems.
The EV fleet will also be utilised to support transportation during the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa.
“The Government has decided to use the EVs to support transportation during CHOGM.”
Vaai expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) for their roles in the initiative, as well as local consultant Kolone Vaai and Associates (KVA Consultants) for their contributions to project studies and reports. He also recognised the Ford Hyundai Company as the successful contractor for the procurement of the EVs.
The CAP-IT project is viewed as a significant step in Samoa’s efforts to transition to a low-carbon transport sector, with Vaai stating that it provides “the much-needed visibility for Samoa’s drive to a low-carbon transport sector.”
