Moefa’auouo Julius Tafuna’i surprised by Cabinet appointment

By Henrietta Tupu/

Apia, Samoa – 17 September 2025 – The youngest Cabinet Minister announced yesterday was caught by surprise when his name was read out.

The forty-one-year-old Accountant, Moefaauouo Julius Ah Kui Tafunai is now in charge of the Governments District Development Project which will allocate $2M tala a year for five years for the 51 electoral constituencies.

The project, an initiative of the FAST Party in 2021is operated under the Ministry of Women, Community, and Social Development. The portfolio includes social welfare and development, women affairs, peoples with disability, youth and the Bureau of Statistics.

“I was surprised when I was named in a ministerial role; but I thought that my skills and qualifications in managing finances will apply as the main focus remains on serving the community with dedication and faith,” he told Talamua.

He also sees every calling as a divine purpose from God, regardless of gender or background.

After the swearing in yesterday, the newly appointed Minister and his Associate Minister Tilafono David Hunter moved into office and were welcomed by the CEO, Loau Donina Vaa and staff as well as the Government Statistician.

In his first try in politics, the former Financial Controller for Samoa Breweries, Moefaauouo defeated a veteran HRPP candidate.

Heavily involved in village affairs and the Treasurer for the Lufilufi EFKS church, his appointment as a Cabinet Minister marks a new chapter in his life as he is part of new government now leading the country.

He remains humble and relies on his faith and commitment to serving Samoa and its people with integrity and purpose.