Development
Salelologa Township $35M Development under PREPARE Samoa Programme
By Jeannie Penehuro/
Apia, SAMOA – 16 June 2026 – The transformation at Salelologa township on Savaii Island will include a master plan for renovating the market and creating a vibrant waterfront with parks and recreational areas for children and families.
This development is funded by the World Bank through the PREPARE Samoa programme, with a total budget of US$35 million.
These improvements aim to boost the community’s economy, enhance public spaces, and strengthen disaster resilience across the region.
In launching the project this week, Deputy Prime Minister Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molio’o emphasized the importance of sharing benefits across the country two major islands.
“What benefits Upolu must also benefit Savai’i,” she said.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molioo with partners, launching the Samoa Prepare project on Monday this week.
The initiative is part of Samoa’s broader effort to prepare for natural hazards and climate change, both of which pose ongoing threats to the island nation.
“This project aims to strengthen our ability to prepare, respond, and recover. It will improve infrastructure, especially in Salelologa and Apia, and boost community readiness for emergencies.” Mulipola explained.
Stakeholder consultations for the project were held in Salelologa in July 2025 and played a key role in shaping the project. Local residents, government officials, and youth participated in workshops to identify vulnerabilities, discuss infrastructure needs, and share ideas for resilience-building.
The government also encourages youth involvement through participatory planning workshops, allowing young people to voice their concerns and share their visions for their township’s future.
Core Pillars of the PREPARE- Samoa Project
- Hazard Monitoring and Early Warning Systems
- Emergency Preparedness and Response
- Resilient Infrastructure
- Project Management
- Contingent Emergency Response
In addition to urban development, the government plans to build new fire stations to improve emergency services and protect communities.
Upgrading disaster management systems and updating legislation related to disaster response are also priorities
World Bank experts, including Jian Vun, the Pacific coordinator for urban disaster risk management, highlighted the importance of relocating critical infrastructure.
They reviewed the country’s main Meteorological Office site at Mulinu’u peninsula and recommended moving it inland to reduce vulnerability.
Construction of a new Meteorological Office at Falelauniu is underway to strengthen weather monitoring capabilities.