The financial performance of the National Kidney Foundation suffered a sharp decline of 27 per cent, the Controller and Chief Auditor has reported.

In his Report to Parliament for the Financial Year ending 2011, Fuimaono C.G. Afele said this drop in financial performance was a year-on-year comparison.

“The financial performance of the Foundation declined when compared to the prior year,” his report reads.

“There was a decrease by 27 per cent in surplus from $1,487,754 to $1,078,144 in the current year.

“This was partly due to the reduction in Government grant received by the Foundation.

“Total income reduced by 16 per cent while total expenses reduced by 11.8 per cent.

“Total liabilities as at the end of the financial year have decreased by 22.7 per cent while total current assets have increased by 46.8 per cent.”

Other issues identified by Fuimaono during the audit, included names of those who were not attending Board meetings were sometimes not recorded in the minutes.

“Information on attendance at meetings is important for confirmation of those entitled to sitting allowances,” he reports.

“The Foundation should take follow up actions for outstanding fees especially those relating to deceased patients.

“Fixed assets were not labelled properly during the financial year in which the assets were purchased.”

The Foundation took the time to respond, Fuimaono’s Audit reads, and it agreed with Auditor’s comments and said that absent Board members have since been noted and follow-up actions are undertaken on a monthly basis for patients with long outstanding treatment fees and all patients are required to pay upfront before commencing daily treatments to avoid accumulated debts.

The report is republished in full below:
Samoa National Kidney Foundation

Financial year: 30 June 2010

Audit opinion: Unqualified

Auditor: Audit Office

Summary of audit findings:
1. The financial performance of the Foundation declined when compared to the prior year; there was a decrease by 27% in surplus from $1,487,754 to $1,078,144 in the current year. This was partly due to the reduction in Government grant received by the Foundation. Total income reduced by 16% while total expenses reduced by 11.8%.

2. Total liabilities as at the end of the financial year have decreased by 22.7% while total current assets have increased by 46.8%

3. Other issues identified during the audit included:
o Names of those who were not attending Board meetings were sometimes not recorded in the minutes. Information on attendance at meetings is important for confirmation of those entitled to sitting allowances;
o The Foundation should take follow up actions for outstanding fees especially those relating to deceased patients;

4. Fixed assets were not labelled properly during the financial year in which the assets were purchased.
The Foundation responded as follows:
• Agreed with auditor‟s comments as per 1 and 2 above;
Other issues:
• Absentees from Board meetings have since been duly noted on minutes of Board meetings;
• Follow-up actions are undertaken on a monthly basis for patients with long outstanding treatment fees and all patients are required to pay upfront before commencing daily treatments to avoid accumulated debts;
• All new purchased fixed assets are properly labelled in the correct financial year in which they were obtained.

Latafale Auva’a has won Miss Samoa New Zealand 2014 – 2015.

For the first time in the events 23-year history the competition was delivered online, with six contestants vying for the crown.
Miss Auva’a will be crowned Miss Samoa N.Z. by the reigning Miss Samoa New Zealand, Margaret Sarona Scott, at a special crowning ceremony on August 13 in Auckland.

This will be followed by her representation of our Samoan community in New Zealand at this year’s Miss Samoa Teuila Pageant in Samoa.


According to the Pacific Events & Entertainment Trust Board & Miss Samoa New Zealand committee Latafale, from Papakura in Auckland, is 20-years-old and.

“A scholarship student in her 3rd year of studying towards a double degree in Law and Music, Majoring in Performing Arts at Otago University, Dunedin,” the release reads.

“Her villages in Samoa are: Tiavea-Saleaumua, Vailoa-Faleata, and Satupa’itea- Siufaga.”
Miss Auva’a said the competition is an opportunity to be able to speak and encourage younger females in succeeding in the competitive working and study environment that is presented in the 21st century.

“We have a beautiful spirit of humility in the Samoan culture that should continue to be nurtured…not be a hindrance to achievement and good work,” she says.

Pacific Events & Entertainment Trust Board & Miss Samoa New Zealand committee Congratulated their Miss Samoa NZ 2014 Latafale Auva’a and wished her all the best for her reign.

“My opinion is that the footpath near the main road where the accident occurred is not safe for anyone to walk along at anytime.”

A driver is lucky to be alive after she drove into a ditch, overturning her car in the process.

The accident occurred in Tuana’imato where eyewitness, Taula’i Lemalu, said the driver lost control of her Rav4 at around 7.30pm last Saturday evening.

“A lady was driving her car when suddenly she sped up and lost control of her car,” he said.

“Then she left the road and her car continued along the footpath where she ended up in a ditch, overturning her vehicle in the process.

“Luckily no one was walking on the footpath when the accident happened.”

Mr Lemalu cautioned other drivers out there, saying there is an increasing number of cars on the road.

“There is also a lot of construction work going on here, so accidents can happen at anytime along Tuana’imato road if we are careless,” he said.

“This is not a motorway.

“My opinion is that the footpath near the main road where the accident occurred is not safe for anyone to walk along at anytime.”
Police were contacted in regards to this issue, however, at the time of press no comment was forthcoming.

“Suffice to say, the works have proceeded at Ueligitone where the water meters were installed until the meeting is done and issues have been sorted out.”

The Samoa Water Authority (S.W.A.) is asking Magiagi residents to be patient, saying they are doing all they can to settle the matter.

This response from S.W.A. was issued after a story was published in the Samoa Observer concerning water meters that were installed in the village.

Villagers claim that six months after the Authority agreed to trial the free water meters in the village for three months, it still has not happened.

They assume the delay with this issue has been caused by a change in leadership at the Authority following the death of the late General Manager Tainau Moefa’auo Vui Taputoa Titimaea in February this year.

Despite this unfortunate eventuality, S.W.A.’s General Manager, Seugamaalii Jamie Saena, said the matter had not been forgotten and ensured it would be resolved as soon as possible.

In an email Seugamaalii to the Observer, she confirmed the Authority met with the village last Tuesday.

“Then she left the road and her car continued along the footpath where she ended up in a ditch, overturning her vehicle in the process.

“The meeting was to sort out any issues or concerns the residents of Magiagi have regarding the works,” said Seugamaalii.

“Suffice to say, the works have proceeded at Ueligitone where the water meters were installed until the meeting is done and issues have been sorted out.”

However, the conclusion of the meeting is still unknown with Seugamaalii saying a full statement about the issue would be released by her Authority this week.

Punaoa Technical College dedicated a commemorative plaque built by the students with funding from parents and teachers last Friday.

Principal of Punaoa, Reverend Uale Misifosa thanked the parents of the students for their support throughout the project.

“Without your support we wouldn’t be able to complete this project,” he said.

“We didn’t hire anyone to do the project but the students have done it themselves.

“The project was funded by the money that we received from our concert held this year in July and it was that money that helped us with this project.

The money was also use to buy new keyboards for the music class.

“We wanted to increase the knowledge of the students through music which is why new pianos have been added in the school for the betterment of the students,” he said.

The Treasurer of the Methodist Church, Ropeti Faleatua, emphasised that many hands make light work.

“So I just want to congratulate you all for the wonderful work that you have put in,” he said.

“I want to especially thank the parents for your continuous support and especially the principal, the teachers and especially the students.

“I now know that you are bright students and that you can do anything that you put your mind and soul into it.”

The Laughing Samoans Eteuati Ete and Tofiga Fepulea'i drew a record crowd at Nadi's Prince Charles Park on the first night of their Fresh off the Blane show in Fiji.

The stars kept the crowd entertained with their various skits during the two-hour show to raise money for the Walk on Walk Strong (WOWS) charity.

Despite chilly conditions, the audience at the park laughed to the humorous show that has so far been showcased only in New Zealand and Australia.

Fepulea'i said this show was the funniest the Laughing Samoans had done.

"It's not out on DVD and you want to catch it on the two days.

"It's a great opportunity if you want to see us live," he said.

"We always expect a lot of laughter and joy. Our fans have supported us and kept us going. It has been 11 years since we have been running shows."

Fans of the stars were more than happy to watch their idols.

Nadi resident Tagi Kirikiti said she had been watching the comedians since high school.

"For me, their DVDs are always a stress reliever and to actually come and see them in the flesh and to hear their jokes is even better than watching them on DVD," she said.

"I'll never get tired of watching their DVDs and tonight is special because their concert is also something that the whole family can also enjoy. People who don't attend this show don't know what they are missing out on."

The show also marked the first night of the Digicel Bula Festival.

The Laughing Samoans are bringing this show to Apia at the end of the month.

Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi is confident that with four contenders the seat will remain a “strong hold” for the H.R.P.P.

Gagaifomauga youth will have a voice in the upcoming by-election, with many signing up to exercise their democratic right.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, Acting Electoral Commissioner, Francis Ainu’u, says the voters’ register for Gagaifomauga No. 1. District has swelled with more than 150 new names added to the electoral roll.

He said this increase was compared to the number of voters listed on the 2011 role.

“The main roll in 2011 was 1013,” said Mr. Ainu’u.

“It had since increased to 1164 with 150 new registered voters.”

According to Mr. Ainu’u the majority of new voters are youths who, by turning 21 years of age, became legal to vote since the last election.

He also noted that 64 names of people who had passed on since 2011 had been removed from the role.

Mr Ainu’u also said there were definitely five candidates locked down for the upcoming by-election – four running under the Human Rights Protection Party (H.R.P.P.) banner and one for the Tautua Party, with nominations officially closing at 12pm last Firday.

The five candidates from the H.R.P.P. are Faimalotoa Kika Iemaima Stowers, Gaiga Aukusitino, Lavea Natoe Ieti, Taito Vaea Muese Tanu.

The sole contender from opposition Tautua Samoa Party is Lavea Peseta Lua Nafoi.

Mr. Ainu’u said Lavea was the last person to officially register his nomination with the Electoral Commissioner’s Office, doing so last Thursday morning.

He said the other candidates were particularly keen to enter the race, all entering their names on Friday July 25.

“The candidates have filled in necessary paper works and satisfied all the requirements,” said the Acting Commissioner.

“Everything is going well and so far there have been no complications in terms of preparations.”

The special election for the constituency was warranted by the Speaker La’aulialemalietoa Leautea Polataivao on June 27 following the death of former M.P Tuiloa Anetele’a Tuiloa.

Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi is confident that with four contenders the seat will remain a “stronghold” for the H.R.P.P.

Tuilaepa claimed that the seat had never been occupied by any M.P. who represented the Opposition.

However, Tautua Samoa Leader, Palusalue Fa’apo II disagreed with this notion.

Palusalue said the late Tuiloa was an Independent M.P before he was approached by H.R.P.P to join them.

The by-election is scheduled for August 15 this year.

PR - In a testament to Westpac’s commitment to providing convenient banking ‘everywhere’, the bank is excited to announce the addition of a new ATM to its growing number of electronic banking channels in Samoa, live to the public on 1 August 2014.

Located at Frankie’s new Supermarket at Lotopa, the new ATM provides convenience to locals wishing to withdraw cash or check their balances without having to visit a branch. “This is good news to all our customers living around that area, with convenient banking now available 24 hours a day,” says Cameron Penfold, Country Head, Westpac Samoa.

According to Mr Penfold, Westpac rolled out the new ATM in response to community feedback. “Many locals have approached us asking for another solution to make their banking easier. We’d always hoped to establish an ATM in the Lotopa area but the challenge we had is finding the right location. When we heard about a new supermarket, we knew Frankie’s would be an ideal spot for our customers.”

The addition of a new ATM brings Westpac Samoa’s ATM fleet to 11. The bank also offers 195 EFTPOS merchants and three branches (comprising the main branch and branches in Vaitele and Salelologa) plus an additional airport agency.

In addition to these services, Westpac offers 22 In-store Banking merchants around Upolu and Savaii, which Mr Penfold says is a convenient electronic solution that offers a range of services to local customers. “In-store Banking provides a range of banking services, so Westpac customers can withdraw or deposit cash, transfer money between their Westpac accounts, check their account balances, print mini statements of their accounts and pay for your water bills, electricity bills, internet as well as your phone bills.”

The Samoa National Provident Fund (S.N.P.F.) has shined in the Controller and Chief Auditor’s 2011 report, posting a $9 million net increase to its cash flow.

In his report to the Legislative Assembly for the financial year ending 2010, Fuimaono C.G. Afele says the Fund’s financial performance had improved over the year.

“With an excess income of $27,024,141 compared to $24,016,937 in the prior year,” the Chief Auditor reports.

“The Fund also experienced growth in total assets, four per cent, and total funds employed. “Cash flow position of the Fund had also improved with a net increase of $12 million compared to the net increase of $3 million in the prior year.”

Fuimaono did note, however, that there was an unreconciled variance of $352,072 between the subsidiary and general ledger for employer contribution and that the following internal control weaknesses were noted for sundry debtors.

“Variances in rental debtors’ balances between the Investment Report and the General Ledger,” the report reads.

“Sundry debtors with credit balances (and) sundry debtors accounts being inactive for over a year.

“Some pension files were not updated as required by member service policy, which required an update on an annual basis.”

The S.N.P.F. took the time to respond to the Auditor’s findings, as reads below:

“Issues one to three - agreed with audit findings,” the Fund responded.

“Issue four - management has recognised these weaknesses in the system and has doubled efforts in ensuring that any variances noted are identified and addressed in a timely manner. Consequently, this issue was not raised again by auditors in the 2011 audit.

“Issue five - a thorough review of the sundry debtors portfolio was done after the 2010 audit was completed.

“The exercise addressed all major weaknesses noted by auditors and improvements were implemented. Consequently this issue was not raised again by auditors in the 2011 audit.

“Issue six - members service department is ensuring that pension files are updated on a regular basis.

“Consequently this issue was not raised again by auditors in the 2011 audit.”

The Chief Auditor’s report on the S.N.P.F. and its subsidiaries – the Parliamentary Pension Scheme and the Senior Citizens’ Benefit Fund, and the Funds’ Building Maintenance Recoverable Account are republished verbatim:

Samoa National Provident Fund
Financial year: 30 June 2010
Audit opinion: Unqualified
Auditor: Lesa ma Penn
Summary of audit findings:
1. The Fund financial performance improved over the year with an excess income of $27,024,141 compared to $24,016,937 in the prior year.

2. The Fund also experienced growth in total assets (4%) and total funds employed

3. Cash flow position of the Fund had also improved with a net increase of $12 million compared to the net increase of $3 million in the prior year.

4. There was an unreconciled variance of $352,072 between the subsidiary and general ledger for employer contribution.

5. The following internal control weaknesses were noted for sundry debtors:
• Variances in rental debtors’ balances between the Investment Report and the General Ledger;
• Sundry debtors with credit balances;
• Sundry debtors accounts being inactive for over a year.

6. Some pension files were not updated as required by member service policy, which
required an update on an annual basis.

7. The Fund responded as follows:
• Issues 1 to 3 - Agreed with audit findings;
• Issue 4 - Management has recognized these weaknesses in the system and has doubled efforts in ensuring that any variances noted are identified and addressed in a timely manner. Consequently, this issue was not raised again by auditors in the 2011 audit;
• Issue 5 - A thorough review of the sundry debtors portfolio was done after the 2010 audit was completed. The exercise addressed all major weaknesses noted by auditors and improvements were implemented. Consequently this issue was not raised again by auditors in the 2011 audit;
• Issue 6 - Members service department is ensuring that pension files are updated on a regular basis. Consequently this issue was not raised again by auditors in the 2011 audit.
Samoa National Provident Fund- Building Maintenance Recoverable Account

Financial year: 30 June 2010 Audit opinion: Unqualified Auditor: Audit Office
Summary of audit findings:

1. Total expenditure of the Fund increased by 1.8% due mainly to the increase in electricity cost for common areas including elevators.

2. Total payments received from tenants increased by 3.7% while total amount owed by tenants reduced by 41% when compared to the prior year.

3. The Fund agreed with issues 1 and 2.

Samoa National Provident Fund – Parliamentary Pension Scheme
Financial year: 30 June 2010
Audit opinion: Unqualified
Auditor: Audit Office
Summary of audit findings:

1. The Scheme had not received the Supplementary Government contribution for the financial year ended 30 June 2010 at the time of the audit.

2. Contributions by some members were incorrectly calculated on the total of basic salary and other allowances instead of the basic salary amount only.

3. Some minutes of Board meetings were not signed to confirm such resolutions as true records of the Board’s discussions.

4. The Scheme responded as follows:
• Issue 1 - Despite our follow up efforts via telephone and letters the MOF advised that they had to incorporate the Government supplementary contributions in a budget. We are still waiting for that payment;
• Issue 2 - It has been corrected since the issue was raised with the Ministry of Finance;
• Issue 3 - Copies of these minutes were misplaced but comments are crucial for development.

Samoa National Provident Fund – Senior Citizens Benefit Scheme

Financial year: 30 June 2010
Audit opinion: Unqualified
Auditor: Lesa ma Penn
Summary of audit findings:

1. The Scheme received a Government grant of $15,400,000 for the year.

2. Overall financial performance resulted in an excess of expenditure over income of $198,129. The performance has improved compared to the prior year with an excess of expenditure over income of $284,923.

3. Cash position had deteriorated with a net decrease in cash during the year of $368,017 compared to a net decrease of $89,256 in the prior year.

4. Unclaimed pensions as at 30 June 2010 of $1,910,074 related as far back as November 2001.

5. The Scheme responded as follows:
• Issue 1 - Agree with audit findings;
• Issues 2 and 3 - Agree with audit findings;
• Issue 4 - Substantial unclaimed pension write back was performed in the subsequent financial year 30 June 2011.

A man sent back to Samoa from the United States of America to face charges over the alleged rape of four students with special needs has been given time to find a lawyer.

That was the outcome of yesterday’s brief Court appearance for 37-year-old, Vaiaoga Leatuvao. The accused fronted up before his Honour, the Chief Justice Patu Tiava’asu’e Falefatu Sapolu.

He asked the Court for legal aid.

The request was accepted and the accused has been given until 18 August to find legal aid.

Yesterday, the Prosecutor, Precious Chang, of the Attorney General’s Office, asked the Court to keep the accused in custody.

She reminded that Leatuvao had left the Samoan jurisdiction when he was supposed to have appeared in Court.

She told the Court that the Police had to find him in America before he was sent back with assistance from the American authorities.

His Honour Chief Justice Patu also sought more information from Ms. Chang in relation to the number of alleged victims involved. The Chief Justice said this was important because Leatuvao faces 23 charges of a sexual nature.

“Twenty three charges is very serious,” he said.

The matter was then adjourned without a plea so that the accused could find legal aid.

Meanwhile, he is being kept in custody.

According to information provided by the United States government, Leatuvao, went to America on a six-month visitor's visa in September 2012.

In July 2013, the Samoan government charged Leatuvao with raping four female students at a Samoan school for disabled children.

Leatuvao, who was still in Seattle on the now-expired visa, was arrested last August for immigration violations. He was sent back from Sea-Tac

Airport, escorted by two United States government agents.

Attorney General, Aumua Ming Leung Wai, confirmed that Leatuvao had been wanted by the local authorities.

He “the said male had left Samoa” several years ago.

Since then, “the Office of the Attorney General with the Samoan Police had worked with relevant United States authorities for the return of this male.”

Floyd Nauer, the man accused over the stabbing of a 27-year-old woman at Togafu’afu’a last month, has been granted bail.

The decision came from the Supreme Court yesterday where Nauer appeared before His Honour, Chief Justice Patu Tiava’asu’e Falefatu Sapolu. Lawyer, Tima Leavai, represented the defendant.
In granting him bail, the Court ordered Nauer to hand in his travel documents to the Registrar of the Court.

He was also told to refrain from any contact with the alleged victim and for him to report to the Police outpost at Safata every Tuesdays and Fridays.

He was also ordered not to set foot at Togafu’afu’a until further notice from the Court.

No details of the charges against the accused were mentioned during the proceedings yesterday.

The matter has been adjourned until 18 August 2014.

Close to three hundred casual police officers have been recruited and were sworn in yesterday as part of Samoa’s preparations for the upcoming Small Island Developing States (S.I.D.S) Conference.

Held in the District Court, the swearing in ceremony was witnessed by proud relatives and friends of the new officers.
His Honour Judge Vaepule Vaemoa Vaai presided.

“Stay strong to keep the oath that you have taken,” Judge Vaai told them yesterday.

“Perform your duty well and assist your other police friends during the conference.”

The new officers were also told to “serve with honesty to ensure the safety of the people that will be here for the conference as well as the people of Samoa.”

“There will be many challenges along the way but I must remind you to remember the words of the oath that you have made today.”

Police Commissioner, Fauono Talalelei Tapu, said the decision to recruit casual officers is to ensure there are enough police officers throughout S.I.D.S.

“Many people from other countries will be here,” he said.

“So it’s important that we have enough officers to cater for these people if anything goes wrong."

“It’s all about ensuring their safety and the safety of the people of Samoa.”

The casual officers will be serving for a minimum of two weeks only for the conference starting on the 23rd of August to the 7th of December.

The drivers and the vehicles to be used to transport V.I.P’s during the S.I.D.S Conference were put through their paces yesterday.

The drill was part of many practise runs the specially trained drivers will be put through over the next few days as Samoa picks up the pace of preparations for S.I.D.S.

The drills are being carried out by the Police with assistance from Australia.

“It’s vital that these important people are transported in a professional way,” Acting Police Commissioner, Fauono Talalelei Tapu, told the Samoa Observer yesterday.

“The drivers who are all police officers have been put through special training and their job is to not only transport our key guests but also look out for their welfare."

“The thing with these vehicles is that it’s not like driving just any other car. So these people have been given plenty of training and they are ready.”

More than twenty cars were tested around the town area yesterday.

“We’re not letting anyone else drive the key officials,” he said.

“Only police officers who are taking part in the training are the ones who will be driving the officials.”

“We pray that the people would assist the police to make their work easier in order to make sure the running of the conference is smooth.”

Travelling to American Samoa by sea from Satitoa is back on the cards with the Samoa Shipping Corporation (S.S.C.) announcing their inter-island ferry trips will start up again this Thursday.

According to an S.S.C. staff member, the first ship will depart for Pago Pago at 9a.m. from the US$8million Satitoa Wharf in Aleipata.

Attempts to get an official comment by press time from S.S.C.’s Managing Director, Papali’i Willie Nansen, were unsuccessful.

However, last week members of the public praised the Government for putting the trips back on the S.S.C.’s schedule, while at the same time offered up some advice.

“The road towards Satitoa must be well maintained first,” Talatonu Leleiga of Vaitele said.

“It seems the rainy season is going to be here for the whole of next week, we have to be well prepared and exercise a few precautions for everyone who travels and to drive safe towards Satitoa wharf next week.”

“No questions that the road towards Satitoa is going to be a very busy one especially at night when the ferry arrives.”

“Bear in mind that driving in wet weather conditions is much different than in dry weather… always be on full alert and maneuver your car cautiously when it’s wet out there.” “Roads tend to be wet and slippery especially after a heavy downpour, the water on the roads is mixed with dirt and oil leak from vehicles on to the road is also retained causing slippery surfaces – and could end in a serious car accident.”

Samusu mother, Tagiilima Tautolo, said: “Satitoa wharf will enable more business in town to move to Aleipata, more homes to be built and more jobs.”

“It’s a huge help for sure to the local people in the district as well.”

“That is something I am interested in.”

In an interview last November with the Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure (M.W.T.I), Manu’alesagala Enokati Posala, he said the Satitoa Port is an integral part of the Government’s plan to further develop Aleipata.

Earlier this year, Cabinet ordered control of the wharf facilities to be transferred from Samoa Ports Authority (S.P.A.) to S.S.C.

Four new Australian Volunteers arrived in Samoa this week to begin their work.

The Australian High Commissioner Sue Langford welcomed the new intake during a brief orientation.

In congratulating the new volunteers, Ms Langford emphasized the importance of their roles in physically representing Australia’s partnership with Samoa.

“You who are here as Australian Volunteers are the public face of the Australian Aid Program,” Langford highlighted.

The volunteers’ roles in Samoa are diverse, with a focus on building the capacity of individuals, organisations and the community through skills and knowledge sharing. The long term sustainability of the work done by the volunteers while on assignment is a key consideration.

The four new volunteers are:
1. Jeff Sneddon who is volunteering with Pacific Water for three months as an IT Advisor. Sneddon will amongst various responsibilities, assist and train PWWA staff to review and update their IT systems, implement an online payment and financial system, and to improve their information management skills. He will also train PWWA staff in the new systems and procedures. This will help PWWA provide its regional members with increased capacity to deliver services and improve water quality and access.

2. Lauren Treby will be undertaking a 12 month assignment as Monitoring and Evaluation Support Officer within the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development (MWCSD) in Apia, Samoa. Treby will be responsible for implementation, review and updating the MWCSD’s Monitoring and Evaluation Framework and will provide support for organisational development through staff training, information and process management.

3. Hanna Cihal is volunteering for 12 months as a Monitoring and Evaluation Officer with Samoa’s Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture (MESC). She will be working in the Education Sector of MESC and will collaborate with partners from the Samoa Qualifications Authority (SQA) and the National University of Samoa (NUS). Cihal will be assisting staff at MESC, SQA and NUS to develop and improve monitoring and evaluation practices for education in Samoa. A strong focus of the role is building staff capacity in monitoring, evaluation and related skills.

4. Beatrice Carey will be working for 12 months with the Samoa National Orchestra as National Orchestra Music Trainer with the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture (MESC). Beatrice will work in the Culture Division to strengthen and build organizational capacity of the National Orchestra.
Ideally, the National Orchestra will contribute to increased awareness and visibility of music and performing arts in Samoa, and create a platform and opportunity for aspiring local musicians to broaden their potential within the arts industry.
The Australian Government has supported over 12,000 Australian citizens to work as volunteers throughout the Asia-Pacific region since the 1960s.
More than 400 of those volunteers have taken on assignments in Samoa to date, and are making a positive contribution to the country’s development.

“Every kind of fruit grows here, - coconut, bananas, breadfruit, granadillas, “ mummy apples”, oranges, mangoes, custard apples, limes, pineapples, the sweet potato, the taro and the yam are raised in great quantities, and vegetables from temperate climes are successfully cultivated…”

Heroism, wars, struggle, strength, lush forests and beauty are some of the moments of our growth through our history and what the museum takes note of with respect to our traditions, moral values and way of life.

“Samoa and its story,” is the title of a book published by New Zealand to extend the story of Samoa from

German rule to New Zealand captivity and occupation. It gives a detailed account of the lush environment of Samoa among other things. Interestingly it mentioned abundance as follows:

“Everywhere the bush and the fruit-plantation; the coconut palm groves along the coast and inland furring the ranges, the wild timber, large and small. All twisted and twined with shrubs and lianes, in a true tropical profusion of jungly intricacy. Every kind of fruit grows here, - coconut, bananas, breadfruit, granadillas, “ mummy apples”, oranges, mangoes, custard apples, limes, pineapples, the sweet potato, the taro and the yam are raised in great quantities, and vegetable from temperate climes are successfully cultivated…”

And of heroism and wealth, it said, “Manono was known for its warriors and was rich in food supplies. “

Of fame it stated, “Savaii was famous for its great volcano at the time.”

Of courage it read, “ It was on that beach ( Apia) in the height of gale ( 1889 cyclone) that the brave Samoans, friends and foes alike, burying the hatchet, rushed into the surf to rescue the perishing Germans and Americans, and it was the chief of Apia, Seumanutafa, who especially distinguished himself by his chivalrous humanity and courage.”

And of the population it reported that, “The Samoans then numbered about 35,000. “

The author was correct if we look at Samoa now, “ …the Samoans were not dying out.”

The picture above is one taken in 1905 and is our current face-book image of the week.

Meanwhile, the museum continues to prepare for exhibitions during the SIDS conference. Meanwhile, there are plenty memories to reflect on as we make our way towards highlighting the importance of our environment, our cultural heritage and partnerships with our friends near and far.

With that we leave you with humble blessings for this week. God speed.

The Samoa Swim Series is attracting a lot of attention among open water swimmers for the exciting programme of swims, official and unofficial, and all the extra activities around the Series.

Last week, the event attracted more than a hundred swimmers and supporters to Samoa.

There was much more to the Samoa Series than the official “3 great swims in 3 days”.

From the grand opening of the Series with a march through town behind the Police band leading the parade, to the closure with the Prize Giving on a balmy South Pacific evening, the event was one holiday participants will look back to with a smile.

In addition to the three official swims, there were the unofficial swims. Lifelong friendships were formed in Samoa with fellow swimmers, until the next time.

Here is another look at some of the action from the wonderful week that was.

Manusina player Soteria Pulumu picked up the first red card of the Women’s World Cup in France after a spectacular and dangerous spear tackle during her side’s clash with England in Pool A.

Referee Amy Perrett was left with no option but to send Pulumu off after the 12th-minute challenge. Fortunately, Hunt was not injured in the incident and managed to play on for the remainder of the clash.

Reduced to 14 players, Samoa were easily dispatched by the English on a 65-3 scoreline, as the victors ran in 10 tries in total to establish a lead at the top of the pool.

“To have invested so much of my life in this job without knowing that one day we would be shoved away without being appreciated is really disappointing”

The news that the Electric Power Corporation (E.P.C.) is planning to cut more than 300 workers as part of a major restructuring project has angered staff members at the Corporation.

What’s more, they say they have heard about the plan from several sources but they have yet to be officially informed.

But while they are waiting for an official announcement, some of them are deeply worried about their future and that of their families.

Fearing repercussions from the top, the workers agreed to speak to the Samoa Observer on the condition that their names are withheld.

“I’ve been a loyal worker of this organisation for more than ten years,” said one of the linesman. “It saddened me when I heard the news about the Management’s plan.

“To be honest, I didn’t want to turn up to work today or ever come back to work."

“To have invested so much of my life in this job without knowing that one day we would be shoved away without being appreciated is really disappointing.”

From 450 staff members, once the “New E.P.C Management Structure” is “officially approved,” the number of employees will drop to about a hundred.

The employee said for the many years he had worked for the Corporation, “I worked tirelessly” during days and nights.

“We were the first men that were out cutting down trees when the cyclone Evan struck us,” he said.

The worker pointed out that he was around when the deadly tsunami struck in 2009.

“We didn’t get full pay for the work we did night and day but we continued to work because it’s our service to the country.”

“I was aware of the plans from up there and it really upset me when we are some of the first people to go once they are done with their talks and discussions.”

Another employee said she had heard rumours about the restructure.

“One of the men from the other division told us about what’s going around,” he said.

“I’m new here; a new graduate but this will surely affect me in terms of employment. I know of students that we went school together that are looking for work and if they make us redundant then I’ll be following them in finding another job.”

Another senior staff member also expressed his concern about the proposed change.

“I really don’t want to think about this new structure,” he said. “Our division has less than 15 members and only a few of us will still be here after the new structure change.”

A senior supervisor said he was concerned about people under his supervision.

“I’m just hoping the Board will re-think this,” he said. “A lot of the grounds men will be affected and especially those who aren’t earning enough…where will these people go to find work?”

Documents leaked to the Samoa Observer showed that the restructure will slash the number of jobs at the Corporation drastically.

Under the sub-title “New E.P.C Structure” once the “New EPC Management Structure” some of the divisions will be merged while others will be demolished.

General Manger of E.P.C, Tologata Tile Tuimaleali’ifano, confirmed that the issue is being discussed but was reluctant to give details.

“Thanks for showing interest in “New EPC Structure,” Tologata wrote in response to an email from the Samoa Observer. “However, I think it is pretty much premature to publicise this as it is still under deliberation by the Board.”

Pushed about how the new structure would affect the employees, Tologata said: “I just cannot discuss this until this is officially approved by our Board of Directors and Cabinet.”

He added that “I am the only one authorised by the Board to release any information to the public about E.P.C and you have to disclose your source of this information.”

The Director General of Health, Leausa Dr. Take Naseri, has criticised members of the media over what he described as irresponsible reporting of the potential chikungunya outbreak.

The criticism comes as the health sector is monitoring a situation concerning the chikungunya virus, of which there have been no confirmed cases yet in Samoa.

There are suspicions with the cases so far only “clinically diagnosed” – a tentative diagnosis made on the basis of knowledge obtained by medical history and physical examination alone, without benefit of laboratory tests or x-ray films.

During a press conference held to both update the public about the potential outbreak and to specifically to address the media’s reporting on it yesterday, Leausa said some outlets had gotten their reports wrong.

One outlet in particular was singled out, the Talamua Media & Publications, for its flagrant false-to-fact report that Leausa had confirmed a case of dengue fever.

The news item was written by journalist Lagi Keresoma.

“We are disappointed,” he said.

He said what only made it worse is that his Ministry had done much work to be as open as they can with the media.

“The fact (is) that we try our best to be open to the media,” he said.

“So we can open up to the public and educate the public. We rely a lot on the media cause they have ways of getting the attention of people.”

Asked for a comment yesterday, Talamua owner, Apulu Lance Polu said he takes anything to do with health and health information, especially if it is incorrect information, as a serious matter by his standards.

He said he would need to talk to Ms. Keresoma.

Late yesterday afternoon, Apulu emailed to say that “it’s obvious the info we used for last week’s story was incorrect so we have quickly uploaded a correction using the information from this morning’s (yesterday) press conference.”

“The updated story is on our website now and I hope will put the whole issue in correct perspective.”

“I regret if this has alarmed a few people. It was our mistake.”

During the press conference yesterday, Leausa said what was so damning about Talamua’s report was not only was dengue fever more contagious than chikungunya, it had a much higher case fatality rate.

“A case fatality rate is the proportion of deaths within a designated population of ‘cases’ over the course of the disease,” he said.

“This (report) is scary because dengue kills…it is more contagious. We never mentioned any dengue outbreak…and then there is a dengue case that is ‘confirmed’ in Samoa…and this is scary in the sense…cause Dengue kills it carries a high mortality rate.”

“But as of today – there is no dengue. So we need to correct that.”

“So I think we need to be clear when you leave here that there is no dengue as is reported on Talumua Online.”

When Ms. Keresoma arrived at the press conference, Leausa took the opportunity to address the issue of her report with her directly.

He implored her to check her facts before she published her articles.

“Now our counterparts are starting to complain on not reporting a case of dengue fever when they see you are reporting it.”

“I feel that before you go online, you need to get your facts right. It’s not appropriate that you made it dengue when there’s no dengue at all.”

Leausa said that this was not a good situation and that his department had been getting phone calls from people involved in the upcoming Small Island Developing States (S.I.D.S.) conference.

“People that are calling us are the people involved in the S.I.D.S., All these S.I.D.S. countries. This is scary when we talk about dengue because dengue has four types and it’s been five years since the last outbreak.”

Leusa said dengue fever is quite fatal.

“So I think that you should apologise and correct your news and we expect to see that online please,” he said to Talamua.

During the course of the press conference, he also chastised other news agencies for reporting that his Ministry had confirmed cases Chikungunya virus.

“As of today we don’t even have a confirmed case of the less fatal chikungunya – only clinical diagnoses,” he said. “We have called this press conference to give you an update and reassure our public of the current situation of a potential outbreak of chickunguna.”