Samoa’s One-Data Initiative: Turning District Insights into Action

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 20 February 2026 – The Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development (MWCSD), in partnership with the Samoa Bureau of Statistics (SBS), is taking decisive steps to enhance planning, coordination, and service delivery across the nation by refreshing the Samoa District Profiles, formerly known as the District Directory.

According to SBS, Samoa District Profiles are comprehensive statistical reports produced by the SBS that provide a detailed socioeconomic and demographic snapshot of each of the country’s 51 electoral districts.

“Accurate and timely district-level data is the foundation for effective policy and investment decisions,” said Leota Ali’ielua Salani, Chief Executive Officer of SBS.

He said with reliable information, we can ensure that development resources are directed to where they are needed most, and that community programs truly respond to real needs.

Central to the initiative is the formation of a One-Data Team comprising of MWCSD and SBS staff to meet regularly to develop, update, and maintain the District Register, ensuring that data remains accurate, consistent, and reliable.

The refreshed District Profiles are expected to provide policymakers, investors, and community leaders with actionable insights, allowing them to design programs and allocate resources with greater precision.

By understanding the unique needs of each district, Samoa can ensure that every community benefits from development initiatives.

As the country embraces data-driven decision-making, initiatives like the Samoa District Profiles are set to play a pivotal role in shaping smarter, stronger, and more resilient districts across the nation.

Recently, MWCSD also held a two-day reset workshop as part of preparations for its transition into two new entities: the Ministry of Family and Social Affairs and the Samoa District Development Authority.

According to MWCSD, “There are moments in public service when technical improvements and institutional reforms come together to create something far greater than just a process. This is one of those moments.”

The Staff reflected on achievements, operational challenges, and system improvements, while also sharpening standards in customer service and project management. The sessions fostered transparency, accountability, and readiness to serve families and communities more effectively.

At the centre of the District Profiles project is a One‑Data Team, composed of staff from both MWCSD and SBS, tasked with developing, updating, and maintaining the District Register with a strong focus on data integrity and shared ownership.

As Samoa embraces data-driven planning, the strengthened Samoa District Profiles are poised to play a pivotal role in building smarter, stronger, and more resilient districts across the nation.

“Better data. Better decisions. Stronger districts — transforming Samoa’s future, one community at a time,” the Ministry emphasised.