Apia, Samoa – 14 November 2024, U.S. Ambassador Tom Udall concluded his final official visit to Samoa on October 29, marking the end of a memorable tenure defined by resilience, innovation, and strengthened U.S.-Samoa relations. Ambassador Udall made history by presenting his credentials virtually in February 2022, a pioneering move prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic and demonstrating his commitment to serving Samoa despite unprecedented global challenges.
“It has been an honor to serve as Ambassador to Samoa during such a transformative time,” said Ambassador Udall. “While my tenure may have started under unusual circumstances, the relationships we forged and the initiatives we launched have been extraordinary.”
Throughout his time in office, Ambassador Udall prioritized building bilateral ties, enhancing community resilience, and promoting shared goals in health and climate action. His collaborative efforts with local organizations and the Samoan government have significantly contributed to Samoa’s sustainable development and reinforced the enduring partnership between Samoa and the United States.
During his farewell visit, Ambassador Udall met with key Samoan leaders, including Head of State Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II and Masiofo Faamausili Leinafo Tuimalealiifano, and the Prime Minister, Honorable Fiame Dr. Naomi Mataafa, underscoring the respect and cooperation cultivated during his tenure. He expressed his gratitude for the support from the Samoan government and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to Samoa and the wider Blue Pacific region.
A notable highlight of the Ambassador’s visit was his time meeting with U.S. Army Reserve’s Brigadier General Katherine Trombley and the members of the 9th Mission Support Command (MSC) Soifua Manuia Medical Mission. Over the course of two weeks, the U.S. medical providers worked side-by-side in hospitals with Samoan providers, delivering critical health services to more than 650 members of the Samoan community. Ambassador Udall visited the medical teams in district hospitals in Upolu and Savaii and saw first-hand the mission’s impact on local healthcare, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in strengthening regional health systems.
Ambassador Udall also spent time with Peace Corps Volunteers and their host families in Savaii, celebrating the personal connections and cultural exchange fostered through these programs. He praised the volunteers’ contributions, highlighting the role of citizen diplomacy in building understanding and unity between the United States and Samoa.
Additionally, the Ambassador visited two U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)-funded projects implemented by Catholic Relief Services and Caritas Samoa:
- The Promoting Resilience through Essentials Pre-Positioned for Samoa (PREPS) project showcased local disaster preparedness efforts in Tapuelele.
- The WE RISE project at Samalaeulu, a partnership with Samoa Water Authority to expand community access to clean water.
Caritas Samoa representatives Ms. Christina Mareko and Ms. Rosa Mataealiga, along with the mayor of Samalaeulu, Mr. Tevaga Osovale, showcased the tangible outcomes of these projects which align with the shared goals of improving the quality of life for Samoans. Mr. Seiuli Sio Papalii of Samoa Water Authority noted these projects underscore the commitment to resilience and looked forward to ongoing collaboration.
The Ambassador’s visit concluded with a farewell reception, reflecting on his journey and the relationships built with Samoa. Deputy Prime Minister Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio honored his legacy, noting, “Ambassador Udall, you set history with your virtual credentialing, a testament to your determination to build partnerships with Samoa. During your tenure, you established new programs like the Nevada National Guard State Partnership and championed the Soifua Manuia Medical Mission, which has brought significant assistance to Samoa and the Blue Pacific region.”
As Ambassador Udall prepares for the next chapter, he leaves behind a legacy of goodwill, cooperation, and a bright outlook for continued U.S.-Samoa relations. His unwavering commitment to Samoa’s future will be remembered with gratitude.
