Launch of the RESTORE Project in Samoa: Strengthening Community Resilience and Protecting Marine Ecosystems
In Samoa, the Conservation International team recently held, on March 25, a series of inception workshops and community consultations in the districts of A’ana Alofi 4, Aiga-le-Tai, and Falelatai & Samatau. These gatherings brought together key partners from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), demonstrating a strong commitment to preserving the country’s coastal and marine ecosystems.
The active participation of local communities—from traditional leaders to young environmental advocates—reflects the strong potential of this initiative to build a sustainable and resilient future for Samoa.
Key highlights from the sessions:
- Enhanced collaboration: Government representatives, traditional chiefs, youth, and civil society members came together to co-develop an integrated conservation strategy grounded in a shared vision for the land and sea.
- Concrete discussions: Topics included sustainable fisheries management, the restoration of coral reefs and mangroves, and innovative initiatives to strengthen local livelihoods.
- A shared vision for the future: Aligned with the Samoa Ocean Strategy 2020–2030, the RESTORE project blends traditional knowledge and scientific approaches to safeguard natural resources while supporting cultural heritage and economic development within communities.
The regional Kiwa RESTORE project aims to strengthen community resilience to climate change through Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in three Pacific Island countries: Fiji, Samoa, and Timor-Leste.
