No agreements or any lease on an American Samoa farm at Togitogiga

Staff Reporters/

Apia, SAMOA – 15 March 2024 – The Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries has clarified that there have been no formal agreements, including any lease arrangements made with the American Samoa government on a reported 400 acre cattle farm at Togitogiga.

In a media statement this morning, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Agriculture Dr Seuseu Tauati said, “Regarding the animal farm at Togitogiga that is operated by MAF, there have been no formal agreements, including any lease arrangements made with Am. Samoa.”

The issue was brought up in parliament on Wednesday by the leader of the Opposition following an American Samoa Senate Committee hearing where the Director of Agriculture, Solia Mutini discussed the 400 cattle farm even though he said there was no lease.

The Senators however were concerned about the absence of proper documentation and that the Fono had not been made aware of the government’s plans for a cattle farm in Samoa.

According to Dr Seuseu Tauati, there were discussions along collaboration to address the issue of food security for both Samoas.

“During the recent Atoa o Samoa discussions, representatives from both the Samoa and American Samoa Agriculture and Fisheries sectors engaged in constructive dialogue aimed at enhancing collaboration and addressing mutual priorities, particularly in the realm of food security.

“In response to the immediate needs of American Samoa, Samoa has taken proactive measures. We have provided 600 giant clams along with pertinent training to support food security initiatives. Additionally, we have offered tilapia to be supplied to American Samoa upon their readiness to receive them.

As an outcome of the Atoa Samoa Talks, the Governor of American Samoa Lemauga Peleti receiving the giant clams from the Minister of Agriculture, Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao at the end of November 2023.

“Furthermore, to bolster animal production in American Samoa, Samoa has generously offered 5 cattle and 5 sheep. These animals are currently being nurtured at the Vaea compound, awaiting collection by the American Samoa Department of Agriculture.”

Looking ahead, Dr Seuseu Tauati said that MAF is committed to advancing the genetics of our cattle industry.

“Plans are underway for the importation of bull semen for artificial insemination, scheduled to commence in the coming months. Additionally, discussions with the cattle industry in Australia are progressing, with the intention of importing young cattle to enhance our breeding stock. We have extended an invitation for American Samoa to partake in these discussions and explore the possibility of joint cattle imports via sea transport.

“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the American Samoa department of Marine and Wildlife Resources, and the American Samoa Department of Agriculture for our close collaboration. Your partnership is instrumental in driving the sustainable development of agriculture and fisheries in our region.

“In closing, I extend my appreciation to all involved parties for your unwavering support towards the advancement of agriculture and fisheries in Samoa. Should you have any further inquiries or require additional clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out,” said Dr Seuseu.