RESTORE in Samoa: Communities Mobilised to Restore Nature

From 22 to 25 April 2025, more than 200 marine resource users participated in a perception survey across 15 coastal villages in Samoa. This initiative is part of the RESTORE regional project, funded by the Kiwa Initiative, and carried out with support from the National University of Samoa (NUS) and CI-Samoa.

The findings highlight deep concern among communities regarding the degradation of coastal ecosystems:

• coastal erosion,
• damaged coral reefs,
• declining fisheries.

These environmental pressures are directly threatening the livelihoods of local populations.
The survey also reveals strong community support for nature-based solutions, while underlining the need for more training, tools, and ongoing support to take effective action. Inclusive decision-making and long-term partnerships are seen as key factors for success.
This local and participatory data collection effort underscores the importance of co-designing climate responses with the people most affected.
The Kiwa Initiative warmly thanks the traditional leaders (Sui o Nu’u), community members, and the students who supported data collection, for their commitment to protecting and restoring Samoa’s ecosystems.