American Samoa Government receives gift of 500 Giant Clams from Samoa

Source: Office of the Governor of American Samoa

Apia, Samoa – 29 November 2023: In a significant step towards fostering collaboration and bolstering mutual support, the Samoa Government has gifted 500 giant clams to American Samoa. This marks a significant moment in the ongoing partnership between the two governments, aimed at strengthening cooperation in crucial areas such as fisheries, aquaculture, mariculture, and capacity building.

The exchange is a fulfillment of the anticipated outcomes of the Atoa-o-Samoa Meeting that emphasizes the commitment of both nations to work hand in hand for the betterment of their communities.

American Samoa extended a warm welcome to the Samoa delegation led by Afioga Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi, Minister of Agriculture & Fisheries, through a traditional Ava ceremony, performed by the Office of Samoan Affairs at the Fagaalu Fale Samoa.

The formal proceedings began with Governor Lemanu P. S. Mauga welcoming remarks, expressing appreciation for the sustained collaboration, and highlighting the importance of the occasion. The Governor emphasized, “One of the primary objectives of this exchange is to facilitate the sharing of knowledge and the building of capacity. The outcomes from the Atoa o Samoa meeting play a crucial role in our continuous endeavors to cultivate a sustainable environment and foster a healthy lifestyle in our communities. I extend my sincere thanks to the Prime Minister of Samoa, Honorable Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa, and the Government of Samoa for fulfilling their commitments as discussed in the preceding Atoa o Samoa meetings.”

The Governor also expressed gratitude to the American Samoa Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources, the Department of Agriculture, and the Samoa Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries for their invaluable contributions to the collaborative efforts. Following this, Minister Laauli Leuatea Polataivao Fosi, presented the clams, offering remarks that further emphasized the shared commitment to sustainability between the two nations.

“We are committed to a mutual sharing of resources, demonstrating our dedication to collaborative efforts. It’s crucial to prepare for challenging times, especially given the uncertainty of shipping interruptions. Our goal is to be well-prepared, and we have dedicated staff ready to provide training and assistance to the team in American Samoa,” said Laaulii.

Fisheries Officers preparing the giant clams for release into the sea.

In his closing remarks, Director Taotasi A. Soliai highlighted that both the Samoa and American Samoa teams will undergo a two-week training and workshops to facilitate the successful development of this new project. He expressed gratitude to the Samoa team and all involved parties for their contributions, emphasizing the positive impact the initiative will have on community livelihoods, food security, and the sustainable management of fisheries resources in the region.

The exchange program aligns with the broader vision of the Atoa-o-Samoa Meeting, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and cooperation in addressing shared challenges. As both the American Samoa Government and the Government of Samoa continue to explore avenues for joint initiatives, the exchange of giant clams stands as a tangible manifestation of the enduring friendship and commitment between the two Samoas.