Apia, Samoa – On November 2, 2026, representatives from the United States Coast Guard (USCG), the Samoa Police Maritime Unit, the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority (SFESA) and the Samoa Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure (MWTI) officially launched a two-week specialized technical training partnership in Apia.
Running from November 2 to November 13, 2026, a USCG Mobile Training Team (MTT) will conduct a comprehensive Outboard Motor Maintenance course tailored for Samoan maritime and emergency first responders. The initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of both the United States and Samoa to strengthen regional maritime security, enhance search and rescue capabilities, and ensure operational readiness across Samoa’s territorial waters.
The rigorous, hands-on curriculum is designed to equip mechanics and operators from both the Maritime Unit and SFESA with skills in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining critical outboard propulsion systems. By upgrading these engineering capabilities locally, the joint initiative ensures that Samoa’s emergency vessels remain mission-ready to respond swiftly to maritime safety threats, natural disasters, and enforcement operations.
“This training will give participants practical skills to diagnose, maintain, and repair outboard motors. Strengthening these capabilities will help reduce equipment downtime, extend the life of your vessels, and ensure your agencies are better prepared to respond when their communities need them most,” said U.S. Embassy Political and Economic Affairs Chief Donald Alderman.
“This program also reflects the strong partnership between the United States and Samoa. We share a commitment to a safe, secure, and resilient Pacific, where countries have the skills, resources, and partnerships needed to address common challenges. By working together and sharing expertise, we can strengthen maritime safety and emergency response capabilities throughout the region.”
Officials from the U.S. Embassy, the Samoa Police Service, SFESA and MWTI leadership attended the opening ceremony, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the mission.
U.S. Embassy Apia, Public Affairs Section
