Samoa's 15-Year Farm Program Lifts Exports and Communities

Samoan farmers gathered this week to celebrate something remarkable: 15 years of steady agricultural growth that's changing lives and strengthening their economy.

The Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Plus program, funded by Australia and New Zealand, has worked alongside Samoan farmers since 2011 to rebuild and modernize their agricultural systems. The results speak for themselves.

Samoa's taro sector, once struggling with disease and market access problems, has made a dramatic comeback. Farmers now have the tools, training, and certifications needed to compete in international markets. The crop that serves as a cultural cornerstone is once again a source of pride and income.

The program didn't stop there. Kava growers and ornamental plant farmers are tapping into new opportunities thanks to solar dryers and processing technology that add value to their crops. Skills training has helped farmers meet international standards, opening doors that seemed locked just years ago.

Minister for Agriculture Fuimaono Maiava Tito Asafo told the Samoa Knowledge Forum that agriculture represents more than business for his country. "Agriculture is the heartbeat of our communities," he said, emphasizing how supporting farmers creates pathways for people to thrive at home while succeeding in global markets.

The Ripple Effect

The transformation goes beyond individual farms. When farmers gain access to better technology and training, entire communities benefit from more stable incomes and employment opportunities. Export growth means money flowing back into local economies, funding schools, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Australia's High Commissioner Will Robinson highlighted how sustained partnership creates lasting change. New Zealand's High Commissioner Si'alei van Toor emphasized that investing in skills and market systems ensures growth benefits everyone, not just a select few.

Both governments have committed to continuing their support beyond the program's June 2026 conclusion. Discussions about a successor program are already underway, showing that this partnership thinks in decades, not just funding cycles.

The forum brought together farmers, government officials, exporters, and researchers to share lessons learned and chart the path forward. Their conversations focused on maintaining momentum while addressing emerging challenges like climate resilience and changing market demands.

Samoa proves that patient, collaborative development work pays off when partners stay committed for the long haul.