AGP Executive Report

Health Crisis: Samoa’s main hospital is rationing critical medicines after a low-supply situation, with an urgent air freight shipment from Fiji-based Pacific Specialist Healthcare covering only about half of what’s needed; key drugs including metformin, amlodipine and children’s paracetamol are scarce, and a reported SAT$12 million backlog in unpaid supplier bills is being blamed. Local Governance: The government says it is separate from district councils’ finances, pushing back on claims the District Development Programme is in trouble after reports of banks being asked to approve $300,000 overdraft facilities for district councils. Justice & Courts: Two of three people linked to a Vietnam shooting involving two Samoan men were remanded for two more weeks as charges include misleading police and corruption, with the case tied to Unalei Rentals. Regional Security: Pacific countries, including Samoa, are meeting in Fiji to strengthen cybercrime laws through a regional handbook under the Pacific Islands Law Officers Network. National Planning: Samoa officially launched its new five-year Pathway for the Development of Samoa (FY2026/27–FY2030/31), calling for a whole-of-society effort to deliver resilient growth and good governance.

Health Crisis: Samoa’s main hospital is rationing critical medicines, including metformin, amlodipine and children’s paracetamol, after a Fiji air-freight shipment covered only about half of needs and more supplies are still expected; reports also point to a SAT$12 million backlog in unpaid supplier bills. Local Governance: The Minister of Women, Community and Social Development responded after criticism over a Facebook post about a request for SAT$300,000 overdraft facilities for District Councils to cover the remaining 30% of their $1.8 million District Development funds. National Planning: Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Fosi Schmidt launched Samoa’s five-year Pathway for the Development of Samoa (FY2026/27–FY2030/31), calling for government, communities and the private sector to deliver a plan focused on resilient growth, good governance and social justice. Regional Security: Pacific legal experts meeting in Nadi, Fiji are finalising a handbook to strengthen cybercrime laws and regional defences, with Samoa among the participating countries. Culture & Youth: Independent Boxing Samoa’s “Fight for Independence 64” drew big crowds at the N.U.S. Gym, while a new Samoan psychotherapy clinic opened as a first-of-its-kind mental health centre.

National Development Plan: Samoa has launched its new five-year Pathway for the Development of Samoa (FY2026/27–FY2030/31), with a public roadshow planned for Upolu and Savai‘i, aiming to boost resilience, grow the economy, improve social outcomes and strengthen good governance. Public Service Boost: 109 government officials graduated at USP Samoa, supported by Australia’s Tautai Governance for Economic Growth Program to improve public sector performance. Fuel Update: Samoa’s Ministry of Finance says there is no fuel shortage and reserves remain comfortable, after public concern tied to global oil disruptions. District Council Funding Question: Opposition MP Leatinuu Wayne Sooialo says banks being asked for overdraft help for District Councils raises questions about how public funds are being used. Mental Health Access: A new psychotherapy clinic, Ahmadhina Health Centre, has opened in Samoa as a first-of-its-kind centre using Positive and Transcultural Psychotherapy. Sports—Marist Sevens: Tepatasi won the Marist International 7s again, beating Yaro Chiefs 10-5 in the final. Sports—OFC U19 Qualifiers: Papua New Guinea started strong in the OFC U19 campaign, with David Tita scoring a hat-trick in a 4-0 win over Tonga. Agribusiness Innovation: Samoa’s Agri-Innovate Competition 2026 finale celebrated agrifood entrepreneurs, backed by the EU-funded STODAS project through FAO and SROS. Independence in Motion: Triathlon Samoa marked Independence Day with a 21km relay featuring 12 teams. Community & Culture: Samoa Language Week celebrations continued with cultural events and community activities highlighting Samoan language and heritage.

Poverty and schooling: A poverty advocate says more Samoan students are working part-time to help pay family bills, raising concerns about learning impacts when teens work long hours. Marist Sevens: Tepatasi beat Yaro Chiefs 10-5 to retain the Marist Sevens title, after hard semi-final wins. Public service boost: 109 Government of Samoa officials graduated at USP Samoa, supported by Australia’s Tautai Governance for Economic Growth Program. Mental health care: Samoa’s first psychotherapy clinic, Ahmadhina Health Centre, has opened, offering Positive and Transcultural Psychotherapy with a cultural focus. Fuel calm-down: Samoa’s Ministry of Finance says there is no fuel shortage and reserves remain comfortable, after an amber alert sparked public worry. Independence sport: Triathlon Samoa held a 21km Independence Day Relay with 12 teams. Boxing: Fight for Independence 64 delivered standout pro debuts, while Fiji’s boxing commission warns a heavyweight over clearance rules after a Samoa bout.

Fuel Watch: Samoa’s Ministry of Finance says there is NO fuel shortage and reserves remain comfortable (50 days diesel, 56 petrol, 82 kerosene/jet) after the Disaster Advisory Committee moved the country to an amber alert—with more shipments planned for July to September. Local Governance: The government has asked Samoa’s four commercial banks to help provide overdraft facilities to District Councils to cover the remaining 30% of $1.8m District Development funds. Sports & Community: Triathlon Samoa marked Independence with a 21km Independence Day Relay drawing 12 teams, while Marist Sevens set up a Fiji vs Samoa final at Apia Park. Culture & Language: Samoa Language Week celebrations continued in Auckland, with community events at Manurewa Library and new bilingual children’s music videos launched in Aotearoa. International Spotlight: Australia’s Governor-General Sam Mostyn thanked Samoa for hospitality during Independence events.

Fuel Watch: Samoa’s Ministry of Finance says there is NO fuel shortage and reserves remain comfortable (50 days diesel, 56 petrol, 82 kerosene/jet fuel), after the Disaster Advisory Committee moved the country to amber alert as a precaution. Sports & Community: The Vailima International Marist Sevens finals are set at Apia Park with Tepatasi vs Yaro Chiefs (men) and Tagimoucia vs No Idea (women), with finals expected around 9pm. Independence in Motion: Triathlon Samoa held a 21km Independence Day Relay with 12 teams, supported by government funding and prizes. Culture & Language: Samoan Language Week wrapped up with community events in Auckland and new bilingual children’s music videos launched in Aotearoa. Local Talent: Samoa Powerlifting Nationals saw record lifts and selections confirmed for the Oceania Championships in Suva. Justice & Community Impact: In Auckland, former funeral director Nicholas Bakulich was convicted and discharged over misconduct involving a Samoan chief’s remains, ordered to pay emotional harm reparation.

Marist Sevens: Tepatasi will face Yaro Chiefs in the men’s final at Apia Park after Tepatasi edged Laumua o Tumua 22-19 and Yaro Chiefs beat Tama Uli 27-0; women’s final also set for around 9pm with Tagimoucia taking on No Idea. Independence Sports: Triathlon Samoa’s 21km Independence Day Relay drew 12 teams, with President Laulusā Leilani Faletoese calling it competitive and community-driven. Fuel Update: Samoa’s Ministry of Finance says there is NO fuel shortage and reserves remain strong (50 days diesel, 56 petrol, 82 kerosene/jet) despite an amber alert; MP Leatinuu questions the alert and urges action on fuel costs. Court Case: Former funeral director Nicholas Bakulich has been sentenced/convicted and discharged over dishonest mishandling of a Samoan matai’s remains, ordered to pay $5,000 emotional harm reparation. Boxing Rules: Fiji’s Boxing Commission warns heavyweight Sainivalati Ratu after he fought in Samoa without clearance, with penalties possible. Culture & Health: “Sāmoan Scientist” launches a diabetes-focused podcast for Pacific families, linking research with traditional food and everyday choices. Rugby Pathways: Manu Samoa’s Sa’u says he won’t block others by playing for Manu soon, while Moana Pasifika’s future could be decided within weeks as Samoa and Tonga-led plans progress.

Fuel Crisis Watch: Samoa has been placed on an amber alert over fuel supplies, meaning EPC will begin power shedding and schools may shift to remote learning, despite claims reserves are still stable; Local Politics: Faleata No.2 MP Leatinuu questions the amber alert and urges the government to tackle high fuel costs directly, including removing the government fuel levy and subsidising bus fares; Super Rugby: A decision on Moana Pasifika’s future is expected within weeks as talks continue on a Samoa-and-Tonga-led plan after the franchise was put into liquidation with debts reported at over $8 million; Rugby (Manu): Former All Black of Samoan heritage Sa’u says he won’t block others by joining Manu immediately; Olympic Boxing: Samoa’s Poutoa and Ioapo were knocked out in their opening bouts at the Olympic qualifier in Amman, while two other Samoan boxers remain in contention; Health & Culture: A “Sāmoan Scientist” podcast is launching to bring diabetes research into Pacific homes, linking science with traditional food and culture; Business & Tourism: Marriott appoints John Douglas as Area General Manager for the Pacific Islands, with oversight across Fiji, Samoa and beyond.

Fuel Crisis Watch: Samoa has been placed on an amber alert over the global fuel situation, with the Disaster Advisory Committee saying EPC will begin power shedding and schools may shift to remote learning as reserves tighten. Trade & EU Partnership: Pacific ACP trade officials are pushing for stronger implementation of agreements, urging that EU cooperation deliver real benefits as more states move toward the iEPA. Moana Pasifika Future: A decision on Moana Pasifika’s next chapter is expected within weeks, as a Samoa and Tonga-led rescue plan is discussed after the franchise was placed into liquidation. Manu Samoa Rugby: Manu Samoa has named its Nations Cup squad, including three on-island players, with the team set to open against Hong Kong China in July. Samoa Language Week: New bilingual Samoan children’s music videos were launched during Samoa Language Week 2026, adding fresh resources for young learners. Hospitality Appointments: Marriott International has appointed John Douglas as Area General Manager for the Pacific Islands, with oversight across Fiji, Samoa and the region.

Fuel Alert in Samoa: Samoa is on amber alert over the global fuel supply situation, with EPC set to begin power shedding and schools moving to remote learning; the DAC says there is enough supply now, but the nation has less than 30 days of fuel reserves and the Cabinet has approved a National Fuel Supply Plan. Court Ruling: The Supreme Court dismissed Associate Minister Peseta Vaifou Tevaga’s civil claim against La’auli and others in a dispute involving a nonu company, ordering the company’s management back to his son and others. Manu Samoa Nations Cup: Manu Samoa has named a 32-player squad for the 2026 Nations Cup in July, including three on-island players, with Samoa opening against Hong Kong China on July 5. Moana Pasifika Future: A Samoa-and-Tonga-led rescue plan could decide Moana Pasifika’s next chapter within weeks as the franchise faces liquidation and more than $8 million in creditor claims. Pacific Rugby Pathways: Cook Islands and Tonga rugby leaders back Kanaloa’s bid to take over Moana Pasifika, saying Pacific-led decision-making must be protected. Hospitality Leadership: Marriott International appoints John Douglas as Area General Manager for Pacific Islands, with oversight including Samoa. Sports & Community: Samoa’s Manusina women’s team thrashed PNG Cassowaries 83-0 in the Oceania Women’s Championship, while tag rugby preparations got a boost from visiting Oztag mentors.

Moana Pasifika Rescue Talks: The Rugby Players Association says a decision on Moana Pasifika’s future could come within weeks, with a Samoa-and-Tonga-led plan taking shape after the franchise was placed into liquidation and reported debts topped $8 million. Manu Samoa Nations Cup Squad: Manu Samoa named a 32-player squad for July’s Nations Cup in Chile and Uruguay, including three on-island players (Taunuu Niulevaea, Elisapeta Alofipo, Warren Solomona) plus Moana Pasifika captain Miracle Fai’ilagi and other overseas-based talent. Tag Rugby Boost: Two experienced Central Coast Oztag mentors arrived in Samoa to run tag clinics, aiming to add structure to local players ahead of the Tag World Cup in October. Forestry & Climate Resilience: FAO-backed training in Suva helped Samoa Forestry Division officers improve sustainable teak and pine production and management. Scam Warning: ANZ Samoa urges customers to watch for fake bank ads and says it will never ask for passwords or one-time passcodes via social media. Independence Sports Fautasi: The Police and Fire fautasi Malu o Samoa won the Foe Sipuni race to cap Independence Day celebrations.

Crime & Finance: Samoa’s Central Bank has ordered banks to freeze accounts of three more people linked to a gang-related murder probe in Vietnam, including an Australian, a US citizen and a New Zealander, after police and the Transnational Crime Unit flagged possible funds that could be moved. Local Governance & Trust: A new Samoa governance survey says many young Samoans feel leaders mainly serve the wealthy, with development seen as unfair and rights constrained by culture and tradition. Super Rugby & Pacific Sport: Moana Pasifika’s survival talk is heating up as the franchise faces liquidation and “D-Day” pressure for a decision, while Samoa and Tonga-backed Kanaloa’s bid to take over gains regional support. Rugby Development: Samoa’s Manusina women’s team thrashed PNG’s Cassowaries 83-0 and named a 27-player squad for a Tri-Series in Fiji. Health & Digital Services: Australia delivered $450,000 in ICT equipment to boost Samoa’s e-Health project, improving access to patient records. Scams Warning: ANZ Samoa urges customers to beware fake bank ads and reminds people ANZ will never ask for passwords or one-time passcodes via social media. Independence & Community: Police and Fire fautasi crew Malu o Samoa won the Foe Sipuni race to cap Independence celebrations.

Moana Pasifika Future: Tonga and Cook Islands rugby leaders have backed the Kanaloa consortium’s bid to take over Moana Pasifika’s licence, saying Pacific rugby’s next chapter must be shaped by Pacific voices as NZ Rugby weighs options after the franchise’s 2026 exit. Regional Diplomacy: New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters met Samoa and Tonga leaders in Apia to push Polynesian priorities, with climate, security, migration and culture on the agenda. Independence Celebrations: Samoa marked 64 years of independence with 33 recipients receiving honours, while the Police and Fire fautasi crew Malu o Samoa won the Foe Sipuni race to cap the festivities. Youth and Governance: A new survey says Samoa youth feel shut out of political processes, with many believing leaders mainly serve the wealthy and that culture and tradition can limit rights. Safety and Scams: ANZ Samoa warns customers about fake bank advertisements and urges people not to share passwords or one-time passcodes. Sports Pathways: Samoa’s Manu Samoa Sevens squad is named for Dubai and South Africa legs, and PNG U-19 men’s football team departs for OFC qualifiers in the Cook Islands.

Samoa Independence & diplomacy: Samoa’s President and Prime Minister received fresh international congratulations, including messages from the UAE and the US marking the 64th anniversary of independence. Health & digital services: Australia delivered $450,000 in ICT equipment to support Samoa’s e-Health push, aimed at faster access to patient records across health facilities. Fuel & cost pressures: Kerosene, petrol and diesel prices are rising again in June, with the latest increases linked to the ongoing impact of the Middle East conflict on refined fuel costs. Youth & crime concerns: PM Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt says Samoa’s youth are being “used” by international drug rings, following the Vietnam case involving Samoans. Rugby spotlight: Manu Samoa Sevens squad named for the Dubai and South Africa legs, while New Zealand moves to explore options to keep Moana Pasifika alive after liquidation steps. Community & environment: Samoan community leaders and environmentalists protested at Coca-Cola’s London AGM, urging a return to reusable packaging to cut plastic waste in the Pacific.

Samoa Health Tech Boost: Australia has delivered $450,000 in ICT equipment to strengthen Samoa’s e-Health project, helping clinics access patient records faster, on top of about $7.5m in support since 2021. Moana Pasifika Rescue Talks: New Zealand has stepped in to explore options to keep Super Rugby’s Moana Pasifika alive after liquidation steps, with Winston Peters directing officials to talk to NZ Rugby and stakeholders. Pacific Rugby Power Moves: Tonga and Cook Islands unions back the Kanaloa takeover bid for Moana Pasifika, arguing Pacific rugby’s future must be shaped by Pacific voices. Youth and Drugs Warning: Samoa PM Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt says young people are being “used” by international drug rings after Samoans allegedly linked to a Vietnam killing. Regional Media Focus: PNG hosts the Pacific Media Partnership Conference in Honiara, tackling misinformation and how Pacific newsrooms can stay resilient. USP Graduation: USP Samoa graduated 224 students, with King Tupou VI presiding over the ceremony. Customs Leadership: Oceania Customs Organisation appoints Laisiana Tugaga as Head of Secretariat, the first Fijian to lead the role.

Independence Day Diplomacy: Samoa marked 64 years of independence with messages and support from abroad, including UAE congratulations to President Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II and India’s EAM Jaishankar sharing that India has delivered a haemo-dialysis machine with a portable RO unit to Samoa under FIPIC-III. Parliament & Governance: Australia opened Samoa’s new Samoan Parliamentary Precinct in Apia, investing AUD 34.1m, while the National Assembly resumes this week after a recess focused on oversight and regional work. Regional Aviation: PNG’s Benedict Oraka elected chair of the Pacific Aviation Safety Office, with Samoa’s outgoing chair Fui Mau Simanu thanked for four years of reforms. Moana Pasifika Rescue Talks: New Zealand moved to explore options to keep Moana Pasifika alive after liquidation pressures, with Winston Peters instructing officials to begin talks with NZ Rugby and stakeholders. Security & Youth Concerns: Samoa’s PM Laaulialemalietoa Schmidt warned youth are being “used” by international drug rings after Vietnam-linked confessions, as police reported 20 drug raids and 55 charges so far this year. Culture & Sport: Telefoni o le Vainu’u won the Independence fautasi, and Samoa Language Week kicked off with church services across Aotearoa.