Youth Voice their Aspirations for their $1.8M District Development Projects

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 19 February 2026: Forty-eight District Councils signed Funding Agreements on Monday this week for their village-based projects worth $86.4M – a major investment aimed at strengthening communities nationwide.

The signing ceremony marked a significant milestone for district development. But it was in conversations after the event that the deeper impact of the initiative became clear, as some youth representatives shared how the project will directly benefit young people in their districts.

A Boost for Sports Development
AJ Beriti Afaese, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer from Aleipata Itupa i Luga, reflected on how the initiative will revive sports in his district.

“Two years ago, we didn’t have any sports due to no sponsors unless families and friends overseas supported us.”

With government support now available, districts are planning to reintroduce sporting activities, including rugby tournaments.

“At this moment, the government’s help through the District Development Project will encourage our youth to pursue sports such as rugby. We’ve advised our districts that we will be holding rugby tournaments from three different villages, and they are happy about it,” Afaese said.

For many youths, sports represent unity, discipline, and positive engagement within their communities.

MP and Chair for Alataua District Development Project, Taituave Lafaitele Valoaga Taatiti Iona signing his district’s Funding Agreement on Monday this week.

Education Remains the First Priority
Speaking after the ceremony, Perise Toala, Senior Project Officer from Faasaleleaga 4, said education support is at the top of their district’s agenda.

“Our first priority is paying tuition fees for university students. Education is extremely important for our youth, and we have youth representatives who voice out the needs of young people in our districts.”

Her comments highlight the increasing role of youth representation in district planning. Through designated youth representatives, young people are ensuring their concerns — particularly around access to higher education — are formally included in council decisions.

Addressing Domestic Violence and Creating Job Opportunities
Adele Mataitai Fauatea, Senior Project Officer from Falealupo, explained that part of their district’s funding will go towards educational seminars focused on preventing domestic violence within their communities.

“Through the $1.8 million project, we have asked for funding to conduct seminars and education to help solve domestic violence. It’s important to showcase putting an end to violence against women by involving young couples in educational programs for long-term prevention of the problem.”

She stressed that the initiative is not only about responding to incidents but being proactive in promoting awareness and prevention.

In addition, she noted the project will provide employment opportunities for young people. “Youths are being used to work for projects in district councils and receive income.” By involving youth directly in district projects, the program creates both economic support and hands-on experience.

Investing in the Future
While the formal signing at To’oa Salamasina Hall signaled the project implementation, the views of young people from remote villages reveal the significance and perceived impact if may have on the young people.

From university tuition support and violence prevention programs to employment and sports development, the $1.8 million initiative represents more than funding and an investment in Samoa’s future generations.