Minister of Health calls for a collective stance against cancer

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, SAMOA – 02 October 2026: The Minister of Health Vaaaoao Salu Alofipo has called for a collective stance in the fight against cancer.

He made the call at the launch of this years Pinktober at the ANZ Bank’s headquarters in Apia to open the national awareness activities against cancer.

He said whilst the Ministry of Health remains committed to awareness programs in preventing cancer and care, such responsibility needs partnership and should include the community, churches and development partners.

He acknowledged the work of the Samoa Cancer Society and although it is such a small group, their perseverance and commitment to the cause have been tremendous in enabling awareness programs that reach beyond and bringing people together.

“No one should face cancer alone,” the Minister stated.

Samoa Cancer Society acknowledge supporters
The Samoa Cancer Society (SCS) Chairwomen, Tauiliili Alise Stunnenberg acknowledged the support by several individuals, business community, the Government and others who have supported them in the awareness drive.

She said ANZ Bank who has been sponsoring the Pinktober event for almost 15 years and is a part of a much bigger partnership.

“Thank you to the Government and the Ministry of Health for the expertise, commitment and willingness to work alongside the Cancer Society,” she said.

She is grateful for the door open to them for further collaboration and taking the conversation beyond the walls of the office to places where people work and gather.

She believes the most meaningful conversation does not happen at the clinic but at the dinner table, village and market to name a few.

She is grateful to the cancer survivors for sharing their stories that help others feel less alone.

She also announced the appointment of Dillimoa Tusani as the youth ambassador of the Cancer Society who will be part of the advocacy drive for the young people.

ANZ continues fight for cancer
ANZ Bank in-country Manager Sucharu Tandon has completed his 3-year term but confirmed the bank’s continuous support for the Cancer Society.

“ANZ has a long history of driving the society’s awareness program and we do it throughout the year to continue the conversation,” he said.

A month-long program has been laid out as part of the awareness drive and includes the Salani Bright Horizons head shave, Schools & Youth Program, Community Outreach & Bridge launch, Salani Pink Regatta, Bike & Fight for Life- Upolu, Star Athletics Session and Bike & Fight for Life Savaii.