Renovations of Tourism Sites Aim to Increase Economic Value for Samoan Economy

Generating more economic opportunities for the Samoa Tourism Industry is the objective of continuous development works by the Government including renovation of tourist sites.

The Samoa Tourism Authority (STA) is leading ongoing renovation works for sites within the country, with the kind assistance from the Government of NZ through the Samoa Tourism Growth Partnership (STGP). This Partnership is a five-year investment since 2017, which also includes broader support of product development, tourism training, and destination marketing.

The initial assistance for the first phase of renovation works that have been completed is SAT$913,000, for some of the popular hotspots including the Afu Aau Waterfall at Palauli, Saleaula Lava Fields, Laauoleola Cave at Aopo, Fuipisia Falls and Sopoaga Falls at Lotofaga.

Assistance for the second phase that is currently being carried out is SAT1.3million, for works on Papaseea Sliding Rocks at Seesee, Asaga Mangroves, Savaia Giant Clams, Papapapaitai Waterfall Outlook, Le Mafa Pass, Palolo Deep Marine Reserve at Matautu, and Swimming with the Turtles at Satoalepai.

“These are some of many valuable tourism projects we continue to implement for our members, which in turn increase economic value for our country.” Said STA CEO, Faamatuainu Lenatai’i Suifua.

“As there is sufficient time with the current closure of borders, we continue to work closely with our Industry in preparing our destination for when borders open up.” Faamatuainu added.

Members of the local Industry have acknowledged the improved standards from the completed and projected works, as resonated by the President of the Savaii Samoa Tourism Association, Vaaelua Faapoipoi Gidlow.
“We are appreciative of the great Government assistance through the upgraded works to the sites not only in Upolu but in our humble shores in Savaii.” Said Vaaelua. “The standards have obviously been lifted since these works, which would not have been afforded by our site owners and communities.”
“I hope the sites can maintain and upkeep the improved products with impeccable services as there are still locals who are visiting especially during the long weekends, as we await the reopening of borders,” Vaaelua added.
The Authority is also looking at ways to develop other sites within the country, with current works scheduled to be completed at the end of July. All works are being locally procured and implemented by local contractors.

For further details contact Su’a Hesed Ieremia hesed@samoa.travel Ph. 724-7865, and for more information on Beautiful Samoa visit website www.samoa.travel.

ENDS