IMF commended Samoa’s low public debt & financial stability

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 12 August 2026 – The Government has responded to recent public concerns regarding withdrawals from the District Development Programme (DDP) accounts that allege misuse of funds.

A government statement also refutes claims that the recent IMF Article IV consultation found corruption in DDP funds.

The Government emphasizes that it takes the management of public funds seriously and that accusations of corruption require clear evidence.

The DDP is a key national initiative by the FAST Government that is funded by the government, operating under official agreements and strict financial rules.

For 2025-26, Parliament approved $91.8 million for devilment projects in Samoa’s 51 districts. Funds are allocated based on approved plans, budgets, and compliance with reporting and auditing standards.

$150 per person Back-to-School Assistance Programme
A significant part of district spending was on the Back-to-School Assistance Programme, which provided $150 to eligible families to help with the start of the school year school costs.

This was a government-led initiative delivered through district offices nationwide.

The government clarifies that withdrawing money from a district’s bank account does not automatically indicate misuse.

Proper expenditure must be authorized, for an approved purpose, documented, reconciled, and subject to audits.

District councils are responsible for transparent accounting, and any unsupported expenditure will be investigated under legal and financial procedures.

IMF commended Samoa’s low public debt & financial stability
The government also refutes claims that the recent IMF Article IV consultation found corruption in DDP funds.

“The IMF report did not identify misuse but highlighted under-spending and recommended improvements in project planning, procurement, monitoring, and transparency,” the Government statement said.

“Samoa is already implementing these reforms through updated manuals and a new district development framework.

“The IMF commended Samoa’s low public debt and financial stability, affirming the country’s capacity to support vulnerable households.”

Looking ahead, the Government has increased pension support for seniors from July 2026, with benefits rising from $300 to $500 monthly for those aged 70 and over.

Benefits for persons with disabilities will also rise to $300 per month.

Additionally, $20 million has been allocated for a Child Wellbeing Benefit, with payments starting in January 2027.

The government reaffirms that public money must be responsibly managed, and allegations of corruption require evidence.

“The Government will continue strengthening the transparency and accountability of the District Development Programme while ensuring that funding reaches the families, children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities and communities for whom it was intended.”