Three officials from American Samoa have joined Samoa officials to receive in-depth training to strengthen transparency, accountability, and equity in marine resource laws.
The Samoa Observer reports that the training brings together key officials from MAF, the Attorney General’s Office, and the American Samoa Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources to address the complexities of drafting and implementing laws that protect both Samoas’ coastal ecosystems.
Funded by a public diplomacy grant from the U.S. Embassy in Samoa, this training was organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF) in partnership with the Pacific Community (SPC) and the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (UC Law SF).
Seuseu Dr. Joseph Tauati, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries highlighted that “Legislation is a powerful tool for change.”
“It can shape behaviors, protect our marine and fisheries resources and ensure that future generations inherit a thriving ocean.”
He added that drafting effective laws requires more than just legal knowledge; it requires an understanding of our fisheries, our environment, our communities, and our economy.
The workshop provided training on critical Samoan laws, such as the Fisheries Management Act 2016, fisheries regulations, and community-driven village fisheries bylaws.
It also addressed broader issues of gender equity, social inclusion, and human rights within coastal communities that depend on marine resources.
The U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Daniel Tarapacki explained that by supporting this training, the US is investing not only in local governance, but also in the long-term health of marine ecosystems that are essential to livelihoods across the region.
“This collaboration not only strengthens the partnership between the United States and Samoa, but also underscores our commitment to working with Pacific partners to create strong, transparent legal frameworks that support sustainable resource use and protect the unique biodiversity of these waters for generations to come.”
Photo: US Embassy, Apia
