AGP Executive Report

Court Watch: FAST has applied to intervene in the HRPP judicial review over alleged discriminatory appointments of Fono Fa’avae chairpersons, with the court confirming only FAST filed in time and setting the next steps in the case. Sports: Samoa’s invitational netball team will host Australia’s Under-23 Pathways side in a three-match series in Apia (17–20 July), with the games also acting as trials for the Tifaimoana squad. Agriculture: A Chinese mulberry plant trial in Nu’u is showing promise as high-protein feed for pigs and chickens, with large-scale distribution paused due to emergency conditions. Foreign Affairs: PM Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa says Samoa and China have no plans for military ties, while security proposals will be discussed at the Pacific Islands Forum. Business & Consumer Safety: Samoa’s commerce ministry is investigating fake retail products, including Rexona deodorant and Boom washing powder. Education: Samoa launches SEMIS, a new education data system meant to give the ministry real-time school profiles to target support earlier. Regional Security & Economy: Samoa and New Zealand police begin a four-year policing programme, while a PFTAC cash and debt management workshop brings Pacific finance experts to Samoa.

Education Upgrade: Samoa launches the Samoa Education Management Information System (SEMIS), giving the Ministry real-time school data on attendance and infrastructure so support can be targeted before problems escalate. Regional Finance Focus: Samoa hosts a Cash and Debt Management workshop with PFTAC/IMF experts, aiming to strengthen fiscal planning and public financial performance across Pacific partners. Fuel Watch: Samoa says it has enough petroleum for about a month (36 days petrol, 28 diesel, 66 kerosene) and remains on Amber alert while monitoring global disruptions. Public Safety & Health: Samoa–New Zealand Police begin a four-year policing programme to boost investigations, prosecutions, prevention and community engagement. Consumer Protection: M.C.I.L investigates reports of fake imported products, including Rexona deodorant and Boom washing powder. Local Business: Phat Burger has moved from Malifa to Mulinuu, with alcohol sales pending a new liquor licence approval. Culture & Pride: Chef Henry Onesemo’s Tala restaurant wins the first Michelin Star for Samoan cuisine, putting contemporary Samoan food on the global map. Sports: Samoa trails Russia 6-5 at halftime in a Rugby World Cup Pool A match in Kumagaya.

Business & Licensing: Phat Burger has moved from Malifa to Mulinuu, with customers enjoying the new waterfront setting while the restaurant awaits final approval to restart alcohol sales after a fresh liquor licence application. Sports & Talent: Leigh coach Adrian Lam says recruitment is “only just beginning” after signing Samoa international Lazarus Vaalepu, with more arrivals still possible before the 2027 push. Education: Samoa launched the Samoa Education Management Information System (SEMIS), giving the Ministry real-time school data on attendance and infrastructure to spot needs early and improve children’s learning. Public Safety & Health: The Ministry of Commerce is investigating complaints about fake imported products, including Rexona roll-ons and Boom washing powder. Rehabilitation & Justice: A counselling service, SoulTalk, says its Drug and Alcohol Court-linked program is helping steer people away from alcohol and drugs through structured coping sessions. Economy & Policy: The Central Bank of Samoa kept monetary policy unchanged, citing stable inflation goals while expecting temporary pressure from higher oil prices. Regional & Security: Australia and Samoa are backing Pacific policing cooperation, including a Regional Centre of Excellence in Samoa under the Pacific Policing Initiative. Energy & Living Costs: Samoa says it has enough fuel for about a month and announced July diesel and kerosene price cuts. Culture & Pride: Tala chef Henry Onesemo’s restaurant has won the first Michelin Star for Samoan cuisine, putting contemporary Samoan food on the global map. Compensation: More than SAT$6 million tala has been distributed to Safata families under the HMNZS Manawanui compensation plan, with further payments expected to continue.

Fuel Watch: Samoa says it has enough petroleum for about a month, with petrol, diesel and kerosene stock levels confirmed and a new shipment expected on 4 July as the country stays on Amber Level Alert. Compensation Update: More than $6 million tala has already been paid to Safata families under the HMNZS Manawanui compensation deal, with the committee aiming to finish remaining payments by end of July. Public Safety & Policing: Samoa and New Zealand launched a new four-year Policing Programme to strengthen investigations, prosecutions, prevention and community engagement. Governance: Cabinet has approved new chairs and board directors across several ministries and State-Owned Enterprises. Health Policy: Samoa’s Deputy PM says there are currently no laws banning vape imports, responding to questions raised in Parliament. Community & Culture: Lupematasila and Ailao chiefly titles were bestowed at Falelatai, while local Catholic parishes marked Corpus Christi with first communion celebrations. Sports: Apia Rugby Union is back in focus as Samoa’s touch and rugby communities push for more women’s leadership and international success.

Fuel and security updates: Samoa says it has enough petroleum for about a month, with PPS reporting 36 days of petrol, 28 days of diesel and 66 days of kerosene, and a new shipment due on 4 July as the country stays on Amber Level Alert. Public safety partnership: Samoa Police and New Zealand Police have launched a four-year Policing Programme with five NZ advisers to strengthen investigations, prosecutions, prevention and community engagement. Compensation progress: Safata families have already received more than $6 million tala out of the $10 million Manawanui compensation, while Siumu residents are set to receive $1,100 each, with cheques arranged for people without bank accounts. Economy and prices: The Central Bank of Samoa kept monetary policy unchanged, citing stable inflation goals despite expected temporary pressure from higher oil prices. Health and regulation: Samoa has no laws banning vape imports, according to the Deputy Prime Minister and Customs Minister, responding to parliamentary concerns about vaping. Culture and sport: Marist St Joseph’s Rugby Club is back at Apia Park, and Samoa’s Titans touch club leader Gabrielle Apelu is pushing for more women in leadership through sport. Local tragedy: A coroner in New Zealand found a Samoan seasonal worker died from smoke inhalation after a pot fire, with no working smoke alarms in the flat. Business spotlight: TALA in Auckland made Michelin history as the first Samoan restaurant to earn a star.

Fuel Watch: Samoa’s Ministry of Finance has cut July diesel and kerosene prices, with diesel down 82.3 sene to $4.48 and kerosene down 100.1 sene to $4.02, while petrol rises slightly by 1.7 sene to $4.00, citing removal of April “premiums” and warning crude markets may stay volatile. Food & Culture: Auckland’s TALA has made history as the first Samoan restaurant to earn a Michelin star, with chef Henry Onesemo saying the moment “completely” overwhelmed him and calling it a win for fa’a Samoa. Politics & Governance: FAST Party has told Safata No.1 to hold talks to confirm only one candidate for a postponed by-election after two hopefuls were presented, with leadership deciding who will represent the party. Land & Rights: Families facing eviction over a Satapuala land dispute tied to the Faleolo airport runway extension say talks have stalled and legal steps are unclear. Community & Faith: Fusi Safotulafai Catholic parish marked Corpus Christi with six children receiving first communion, while Falelatai saw 65 new chiefly titleholders. Sports & Youth: Samoa Golf launched “The Rise” campaign ahead of the 2026 Samoa Open, and a women’s sports push continued with fun run and zumba for International Women’s Day.

Fuel Watch: Samoa’s Ministry of Finance says diesel and kerosene prices drop from 1 July 2026, while petrol rises slightly by 1.7 sene to $4.00. Food & Health: World Food Safety Day is prompting Samoa’s Ministry of Health to push safer food handling in homes, schools and businesses, with a focus on nutrition and import rules. Economy & Stability: The Central Bank of Samoa confirms foreign exchange reserves remain “comfortable” at about SAT$1.7 billion (15.7 months import cover). Sports Spotlight: Samoa Golf Incorporated launches “The Rise” campaign ahead of the 2026 Samoa Open, aiming to boost youth development and regional entries. Community & Culture: Samoa Rugby Union and Football Federation Samoa mark International Women’s Day with a fun run and zumba, stressing women’s role in sport and community life. Regional Links: Samoa Police, Prisons & Corrections Services formally closes a US-led law enforcement training programme focused on saving lives and community safety. Global Pride: A Samoan law student returns from Norway as Samoa’s sole delegate to Arctic Summer School 2026, sharing climate frontline realities. Legal & Governance: The Attorney General’s Office welcomes Christopher Lange back to Samoa for a two-year capacity building programme for government lawyers. International Recognition: Auckland’s TALA becomes the first Samoan restaurant worldwide to earn a Michelin star, putting fa’a Samoa on the global dining map.

Fuel Watch: Samoa’s Ministry of Finance cut July diesel and kerosene prices, with diesel down to $4.48 and kerosene to $4.02 per litre, while petrol nudged up 1.7 sene to $4.00. Central Banking: The Central Bank of Samoa says foreign reserves remain “comfortable” at about SAT$1.7bn (15.7 months of import cover) and keeps monetary policy unchanged as inflation is expected to rise temporarily. Public Safety Training: Samoa Police, Prisons & Corrections Services formally closed a U.S. Federal Law Enforcement training program aimed at saving lives and strengthening community safety. Indigenous Conservation: Pacific traditional leaders and conservation groups meet on Indigenous-led stewardship and climate resilience, with Samoa among participants. Governance & Oversight: A leaked Cabinet paper and related commentary renew debate over board appointments and transparency in public decision-making. Sports & Culture: Sua Faalogo returns to Siumu with teammates, urging youth to “always listen to your parents,” while Pacific Strongest 2026 crowns new champions in Apia. Education & Health: World Food Safety Day spotlights safer food handling and nutrition, and the Ministry of Education faces renewed scrutiny over immunisation record fees. International Spotlight: Japan signs two grassroots school grants for Samoa, and a Samoan heritage player, Noa Ta’amu, makes NHL draft history.

Prison & Power: Samoa’s Police Minister faces fresh scrutiny over reports of inmates being used for “personal projects,” raising questions about government integrity and whether proper safeguards were followed. Public Health & Fees: The Ministry of Education is slammed for charging parents $40 tala to process immunisation records, with calls for cheaper, smarter options after the measles crisis. Drugs & Rights: Police Minister Mark Mitchell says he needs advice before any “Good Samaritan” legal protections for people who call for help during overdoses. Education & Aid: Japan signs two grassroots school grants in Samoa, including new classrooms and a library for Faleaseela Primary School, plus funding for Itu o Tane College. Governance & Oversight: A leaked Cabinet paper claims to name board directors and chairpersons, reigniting debate over transparency and the role of government boards. Sports & Pride: Sua Faalogo returns to Siumu to encourage youth, while Noa Ta’amu becomes the first Samoan-heritage player drafted into the NHL. Culture & Food: Michelin stars go to 15 NZ restaurants, including Tala, praised as a win for Samoan cuisine on the international stage. Prime Minister Travel: PM Laaulialemalietoa heads to New Zealand for a routine medical check-up; Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molio’o serves as Acting PM. Safety & Schools: Education Minister Loau Keneti Sio condemns a violent gang attack on a mother outside a school and says school-ground violence rules will be reviewed. Digital Security: Samoa and the Blue Pacific are warned of rising cyber threats as connectivity expands.

Japan-Samoa Ties: Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt is in New Zealand for a routine medical check-up, with Deputy PM Mulipola Anarosa ‘Ale-Molio’o acting during his absence, after Japan pledged 200 million yen (T$4.6m) in aid for Samoa. Legal & Governance: Attorney General’s Office welcomes Christopher Lange back to Samoa for a two-year capacity-building programme for government lawyers, while Parliament also moved on the Lands, Surveys and Environment Amendment Bill to separate land and environmental functions. Security & Justice: Samoa’s cyber threat risk is rising across the Blue Pacific, and a brutal attack on a mother outside a school in Vaivase has prompted a review of school violence prevention policies. Community & Culture: Pacific Strongest 2026 wrapped up in Apia with Laauoleolaimalua Fereti taking Men’s Open gold, and POP48 Film Challenge planning continues across Samoa and the region. Health & Aid: Aki Ah Dar returned home after successful heart surgery in Fiji, and Japan’s medical-equipment grant adds to Samoa’s health support.

Moana Premiere in Sydney: Samoa’s Catherine Laga’aia walked the blue carpet for Disney’s live-action Moana, saying she “knows I can” after landing the lead role as Pacific pride takes centre stage. Legal Capacity Building: Attorney-General’s Office welcomes Kiwi lawyer Christopher Lange back to Samoa, formally admitted to practise in the Supreme Court, as a new two-year mentoring programme boosts government lawyers’ court advocacy and case management. PM Medical Check-Up: Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt has left for New Zealand for routine medical checks, with Deputy Prime Minister Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molio’o acting during his absence. Cyber Security Push: Samoa and the Blue Pacific face rising cyber threats, with regional calls for stronger protection of digital systems and sensitive information. School Violence Condemned: Education Minister Loau Keneti Sio condemned a brutal gang attack on a mother outside a school in Vaivase and says school-ground violence prevention policies will be reviewed. Regional Finance Safeguards: Pacific leaders met in Majuro to strengthen correspondent banking links, aiming to keep access to the global financial system open for trade and remittances. Budget Milestone: Parliament passed the 2026/27 national budget, setting the next year’s spending plan at about $1.09 billion. Rugby & Community Sport: Pacific Strongest 2026 wrapped up in Apia, while young Australian footballers donated gear to Vaivase-tai FC after training with the club.

Measles & Media Accountability: Samoa-linked outrage continues after Otago Daily Times cartoonist Garrick Tremain refused to apologise for an insensitive measles joke, saying it was “poor timing” but “innocuous,” while Samoa’s journalism body called the reaction to suffering “overwhelming.” Pacific Finance: Pacific leaders met in Majuro to push ahead on strengthening correspondent banking links, stressing it’s vital for payments, trade, remittances and resilience across the Blue Pacific. Government Updates: Samoa’s Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polāta’ivao Fosi Schmidt is set to travel to New Zealand for a routine medical check-up, with the Deputy Prime Minister acting in his absence. Public Services & Policy: Parliament moved on the Lands, Surveys and Environment Amendment Bill to separate land and environmental functions, and the Land and Titles Court responded to a Parliament-ordered inquiry. Health & Safety: A mother in Vaivase says she was attacked outside a school; the Education Minister condemned the violence and says school-ground prevention rules will be reviewed. Crime & Justice: Two Samoan men were named after Australia’s record cocaine bust, while Samoa also saw fresh attention on prison escape risks and corrections capacity. Sports & Culture: Pacific Strongest 2026 crowned new champions in Apia, and Samoa’s Moana Journey continues to draw pride as performers and creators highlight Pacific representation. International Scrutiny: New reporting renews questions about RFK Jr.’s Samoa visit and vaccine claims, adding fuel to an already heated debate.

Budget & Governance: Parliament endorsed Samoa’s 2026/27 budget of about $1.5 billion, with the government framing it as “Accelerating Inclusive Growth and Access,” while Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt also axed weekly press conferences for all media, saying it will “calm the seas” amid concerns over leaks. Ombudsman Update: Former Senior Supreme Court Judge Vui Clarence Nelson was appointed Ombudsman after the budget passed, but his swearing-in was cancelled because he had to leave Samoa overseas. Justice & Elections: The Justice Minister Fesolai Tusiupu Tuigamala called election laws “stupid” and said a Commission of Inquiry will review the 2025 election and election-law issues. Public Safety: Education Minister Loau Keneti Sio condemned a brutal gang attack on a mother outside a school in Vaivase and said school-grounds violence prevention policies will be reviewed. Sports & Community: Pacific Strongest 2026 crowned new champions in Apia, including Fereti Sao in Men’s Open; and young Australian footballers donated gear to Vaivase-tai FC. Health & Accountability: New reporting alleges Robert F. Kennedy Jr. misled the US Senate about a 2019 Samoa visit tied to vaccine disputes, as Samoa’s own dengue-control discussion highlights regional prevention efforts.

Ombudsman Appointment: Former Supreme Court judge Vui Clarence Nelson was named Samoa’s new Ombudsman, but his swearing-in was cancelled after he had to leave overseas; Parliament says a new date will be confirmed. National Budget: Parliament passed the 2026/2027 Appropriation Bill, approving a $1.5b tala budget under “AIGA – Accelerating Inclusive Growth and Access,” with a projected cash deficit of about $216m and major spending on health, education, district development and social protection. Governance & Courts: The Land and Titles Court responded to a Parliament-ordered inquiry into judges’ work, while the Justice Minister criticised election laws as “stupid” and said a commission of inquiry will review the 2025 election. Public Service & Security: The PSC secretary attended the UN Public Service Forum in Georgia, and 30 women graduated from a Pacific border-security leadership programme aimed at tackling transnational crime. Health & Community: Aki Ah Dar received successful off-pump heart surgery in Fiji and has returned home recovering well. Sports & Culture: Pacific Strongest 2026 crowned new champions in Apia, and paddlers are gearing up for the Sheraton 2 Sheraton 33km race. Media & Politics: The Prime Minister axed weekly press conferences for all media, citing “peace,” amid concerns over leaked Cabinet documents and a directive payment to Bluewave Wireless.

Parliament & Budget: Samoa’s Parliament has passed the 2026/2027 Appropriation Bill, approving a $1.5b budget under the “AIGA – Accelerating Inclusive Growth and Access” theme, with spending priorities including district development, health, education, and social protection. Government Accountability: Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt has axed weekly press conferences for all media, saying it’s for “peace,” while also pointing to a leaked Cabinet directive tied to nearly $1m in payments to Bluewave Wireless. Land & Environment Governance: The Lands, Surveys and Environment Amendment Bill cleared its second reading, formally separating land/survey functions from environmental functions under MNRE. Justice & Courts: The Land and Titles Court has responded to Parliament’s inquiry into its judges’ work, and the Justice Minister has criticised election laws as “stupid,” with a commission of inquiry set for the 2025 election. Ombudsman Update: Vui Clarence Nelson’s swearing-in was cancelled after he had to leave Samoa overseas, but his appointment as Ombudsman remains in motion. Security & Health: Women graduates from Samoa’s border and security agencies completed a programme focused on tackling transnational organised crime, and a father from Faatoia received successful heart surgery in Fiji and has returned home. International Scrutiny: New reporting alleges US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. lied about his 2019 Samoa visit being vaccine-related, reigniting questions after Samoa’s measles outbreak. Rugby & Local Sport: The NZ Rugby Players’ Association rejected claims it was involved in the Moana Pasifika bid process, as the franchise’s future fallout continues.

Government Communications: Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Schmidt has axed the weekly press conferences for all media, saying the government will communicate “for the peace of the country” and that “the more we say, the more they say.” Cabinet Leak Fallout: He also confirmed Cabinet identified the ministry behind a leaked directive authorising nearly $1m in payments to BlueWave Wireless, with possible referral to law enforcement. Budget Passes: Parliament approved Samoa’s 2026/27 $1.5b budget, projecting a cash deficit of $215.9m, with priorities including district development, health, education and social protection. Ombudsman Update: Vui Clarence Nelson’s swearing-in was cancelled after he had to leave Samoa overseas, though his appointment was already accepted by Parliament. Justice and Courts: The Land and Titles Court issued its response to a Parliament-ordered inquiry into judges’ work, while the Justice Minister called election laws “stupid” and announced a commission of inquiry into the 2025 election. MP Drug Testing: The PM says legislation will require MPs to undergo drug testing, following a heated debate in Parliament. Health Controversy: New reporting in the US raises fresh red flags over RFK Jr’s Samoa visit in 2019 and whether it was linked to vaccine issues ahead of a measles outbreak. Tourism & Culture: Samoa Tourism Authority appointed Onomea Productions as official organiser of the Miss Samoa Pageant for 2026–2028.