Welcome to the Office of Samoan Affairs
This website is supported by Grant Number 90ZD0009 from the Office of Family Assistance within the Administration for Children and Families, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Neither the Administration for Children and Families nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families and the Office of Family Assistance.
Headquarters: 454 E. Carson Plaza Dr. #109, Carson, CA 90746
Sacramento Main Office 2255 Watt Ave., Suite 385 Sacramento, CA 9582
Sacramento Satellite Office 11779 Bagota Way Rancho Cordova, CA 95742
June V. Pouesi, Executive Director
Dear Mothers
On this beautiful Mother’s Day, I extend warmest alofa and heartfelt congratulations to every mother across our communities. Whether you are a biological mother, an adoptive mother, a grandmother raising grandchildren, a mother figure, or a spiritual mother in our churches and villages, today we honor you with deep respect and gratitude.
As Director of the Office of Samoan Affairs, I am reminded daily of the role Samoan mothers play in preserving our Christian heritage and close-knit family values. You are the heart of our families — the ones who rise early to prepare meals, stay up late to pray, teach our children the importance of fa’aaloalo (respect), aiga (family), and tautua (service). Your strength, wisdom, and unconditional love are the foundation upon which our communities stand.
To every mother who carries the weight of responsibility with grace, who nurtures with patience, and who gives without expecting anything in return — thank you. Your quiet sacrifices do not go unnoticed. Your love echoes through generations, shaping the future of our communities and all those blessed to call you “Mom,” “Mama,” or “Tina.”
May this Mother’s Day bring you moments of rest, joy, and loving recognition from your families. May God bless you with good health, peace in your homes, and continued strength for the important work you do. Ia manuia le aso o Tina uma!
With deepest respect and alofa
June
Pacific Community
Our Community
Samoa (Independent State of Samoa)
- Politics and Justice: Double murderer Muaava Pokati Tu’u received a life imprisonment sentence on or around May 8. Opposition figures continue monitoring cases involving high-profile acquittals, such as one related to Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt (from earlier in 2026).
- Community and Education: Classes resumed at Loto Taumafai after grant releases. 39 students from USP and NUS received Yazaki Kizuna Scholarships. Police appeal for info on a missing 17-year-old from Vaimoso (April).
- Economy and Trade: New equipment donation strengthens trade measurement services. Ongoing discussions on education priorities and misplaced government spending.
- Other: Concerns over a missing tsunami siren in Lalomanu-Aleipata. Sports and cultural activities, including fishing tournaments and performances, remain active.
American Samoa (U.S. Territory)
- Digital and Regional Ties: A high-level delegation from the Governor’s Office and ASTCA completed a successful three-day mission to Samoa focused on digital sovereignty and the SAS Cable 2 project. Meetings involved government ministries, the private sector, PM, and U.S. Embassy.
- Governance and Community:
- Governor Pula’ali’i Nikolao Pula issued a Mother’s Day message honoring mothers.
- Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata thanked teachers during Appreciation Week and sent greetings for Mother’s Day.
- LBJ Hospital received donations of wheelchairs, walkers, etc., and the Governor toured ARPA-funded projects there.
- Tauese P.F. Sunia Ocean Center reopened with new exhibits (National Marine Sanctuary).
- Economy and Infrastructure: Inflation rose for the second consecutive month. Tax office stamping stations closed. ASPA addressed water issues (e.g., Fagamalo village disinfection). Contract awarded for AP Lutali Executive Office Building renovations.
- Environment and Education: Wetlands Month proclaimed (May); focus on mangrove habitats. Student achievements (e.g., Manu’a High School 4-Way Test award) and Close Up delegation to D.C. Swains Island community meeting for Flag Day preparations.
- Other Local: Police responses to family disturbances, school truancy spots, and other incidents. Military promotions (e.g., local to Gunnery Sergeant).
Note on Deep-Sea Mining: Mixed views—some local Republicans support responsible approaches, while churches (e.g., CCCAS) and neighbors (Guam/CNMI governors) push for moratoriums due to environmental risks.
Broader Pacific Islands
- Regional Cooperation and Security: Pacific Islands Forum Leaders invoked the Biketawa Declaration (May 8) for a regional response to the fuel crisis. New Zealand plans to invite the U.S., China, and Taiwan to the 2026 Forum, signaling broader engagement after prior exclusions.
- Climate and Disasters: Typhoon Sinlaku’s impacts linger (death toll up to 17, recovery in Chuuk/CNMI). Ongoing focus on resilience, sea-level rise, and sustainable fisheries. Palau in a neutral climate phase; various efforts on cleaner shipping and tuna stocks.
- Politics and Elections: Niue held elections with record female MPs and PM Tagelagi retaining his seat. Solomon Islands developments (no-confidence processes). Fiji considers measures on drugs/gangs; Tonga cabinet issues.
- Economy and Development: Fuel price shocks (e.g., Niue warnings of surges), cost-of-living pressures, and aid/migration talks. Connectivity (e.g., Starlink updates elsewhere) and health/mental support post-disasters.
- Other: Cultural preservation, music/traditions, and responses to issues like gender violence linked to climate, or press freedom concerns in spots like Fiji.
The region faces persistent challenges with fuel costs, climate impacts, and connectivity, balanced by diplomatic wins, community events, and cultural pride.
Fiji
RNZ
The High Court in Fiji has dismissed a stay application by former deputy prime minister Manoa Kamikamica against proceedings brought against him by the country’s anti-corruption agency.
Kamikamica is facing one count of perjury and providing false information.
The Fiji Times reports Justice Sianiu Fa’alogo Bull ruling the defence argument claiming an absence of evidence was “without merit” and refused the application.
Kamikamica’s charges stem from alleged statements under oath in relation to the controversial appointment of the now-sacked Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption boss Barbara Malimali.
Health workers in Fiji are owed an estimated FJ$1.7 million (US$770,000) in unpaid overtime.
State broadcaster reported Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Atonio Lalabalavu confirming last week that the unpaid overtime accumulated between January and March this year.
The unpaid overtime mostly affects staff on lower pay bands, including registered nurses, medical imaging technologists, and senior pharmacy technicians.
Dr Atonio said the figure is expected to rise further as data from several major cost centres was still being compiled.
He said all overtime up to December 2025 has been fully paid.
Tonga
Tonga’s Ministry of Health says dengue cases in the country have reached 53.
The latest numbers, as of Monday, recorded three people in Princess Fusipala Hospital in Ha’apai.
The majority of cases are among the 11-14-year-old age group and predominantly boys.
Response teams have been giving out mosquito repellents and bed nets to households with confirmed cases.
French Polynesia
Several employees of Taaone Hospital in French Polynesia are under investigation for alleged involvement in methamphetamine trafficking.
Islands Business reports that three orderlies, who have worked at the hospital for years, and another man appeared before judges and have been placed in pre-trial detention.
Two of the suspects were arrested in Los Angeles last month with 240 grams of methamphetamine.
They were repatriated to Tahiti, leading investigators to detain the other two men.
Trial is set down for 18 June.
Guam
Guam is forecasted to see US$10.5 billion worth of military construction work through to the next fiscal year.
These figures come after a briefing on the ongoing US military buildup in Guam, incolving Guams’s government and the US National Guard.
Guam’s Community Defence Liaison Office executive director Vera Topasna said the funds will fund military housing, missile defence system plans, and some cyber security initiatives.
Pacific Daily News reports that work on projects worth $6.1b is already underway.
Guam government agencies pushed for more federal support for local hospitals and pubilc infrustructure like roads, power, water and port support.
ECONOMY: Samoa
HEALTH CONCERNS
People
Western Samoa banana farmers contribution to the Allied war effort
- The “amazing” story of Samoa’s contribution to the Second World War with a New Zealand-Samoan pilot from Lotofaga flying a Spitfire that contributed to the Allied war effort in Europe, has come to light.
More fascinating that the Royal Air Force Spitfire Mark Vb named Western Samoa, had been bought with the £5,723 the Western Samoa banana farmers raised by contributing six pence per crate of exported bananas.
Many including the Samoa Returned Servicemen – RSA had not heard this story at all.
Until the grandaughter of the Samoan pilot attended last weeks ANZAC Day commemorations in Apia, told the story and presented a framed photo of the pilot sitting in the cockpit with Western Samoa emblazoned on the side.
“They did not know they had a Samoan Spitfire, let alone that there was a New Zealand-Samoan pilot.
New Zealand Army’s Brigadier Esther Harrop has attended 31 Anzac Day services in uniform around the world but this year’s ceremony in Samoa, and the story of sixpence per crate of bananas and her grandfather’s Spitfire, brought her to tears.
Following the service, Brigadier Harrop presented a Second World War photo of her grandfather, then Flight Sergeant Andrew Kronfeld, to the local Returned and Services Association.
The aircraft was gifted to 485 New Zealand Squadron and Flight Sergeant Kronfeld, whose family came from Lotofaga on the south coast of Upolu, was chosen to fly it.
New Zealand Army’s Brigadier Esther Harrop presented a Second World War photo of her grandfather, then Flight Sergeant Andrew Kronfeld, to the local Returned and Services Association.
Brigadier Harrop said she loved sharing the “amazing” story of Samoa’s contribution to the Second World War.
“The president of the RSA, Tuala Iosefo Ponifasio, who was formerly the deputy prime minister of Samoa, had not heard this story at all.
“They did not know they had a Samoan Spitfire, let alone that there was a New Zealand-Samoan pilot.
“I was so proud. The reaction from the people who hadn’t heard this story was so cool… they wanted to celebrate this.”
Brigadier Harrop never met her grandfather but found out about the Spitfire and bananas story in about 2015.
Flight Sergeant Andrew Kronfeld was one of two Polynesian faces in his tranche when 90 Commonwealth pilots trained in Winnipeg in Canada, and he was the top graduate. His mother was Louisa Kronfeld of the chiefly title Fiame of Lotofaga, and his father was German trader Gustav Kronfeld. After starting a trading business in Samoa and Tonga, the large family moved to Auckland, New Zealand in 1890.
Flight Sergeant Andrew Kronfeld flew the Spitfire in Europe and shot down a German Messerschmitt Bf 109 over France. He survived the war but the aircraft, which was transferred to an American volunteer unit, was later destroyed.
In 1941 he went to Calcutta, now Kolkata, in India where he met his wife, and their daughter (Brigadier Harrop’s mother Sandy Harrop) was also born there.
Brigadier Harrop said the Spitfire symbolised Samoa’s direct and voluntary contribution to the Allied war effort, and its enduring bond with New Zealand service personnel.
“We are incredibly proud of his service, and it was particularly special to represent the NZDF and my family on Anzac Day in our ancestral home of Samoa.”
Caring for Samoan Elderly: Evidence-Based Guide to Common Ailments (Sources: Samoa Ministry of Health guidelines and peer-reviewed studies as of 2026)
Samoan older adults (typically 60+) face a high burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) due to lifestyle, diet, genetics, and aging. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity-related complications are leading causes of illness and death in Samoa and American Samoa. Nearly 1 in 3 adults has diabetes, with even higher rates of overweight/obesity (often over 80-90%). Awareness, treatment, and control rates remain low, so regular check-ups are essential.
1. Diabetes (Sugar Disease / Ma’i Suka)
Type 2 diabetes is extremely common and often leads to complications like poor wound healing, vision loss, kidney issues, and nerve pain in the elderly. Management tips (per Samoa Diabetes Management Guideline 2024):
- Monitor blood sugar regularly (HbA1c every 3-6 months; target often <7-7.5% for older adults to avoid hypoglycemia risks).
- Adopt a balanced diet low in refined sugars and processed foods — emphasize local staples like taro, fish, vegetables, and moderate portions.
- Stay active with gentle walking or light gardening; aim for 150 minutes/week if possible.
- Take prescribed medications (e.g., metformin) consistently and attend regular clinic visits.
- Watch for foot care to prevent ulcers.
2. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Often silent but a major driver of strokes and heart disease. Prevalence rises sharply with age. Evidence-based steps:
- Target BP usually <140/90 mmHg (or <130/80 if diabetic and tolerated).
- Reduce salt intake (limit processed foods and added salt).
- Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active.
- Use prescribed medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers) as directed — do not stop suddenly.
- Regular monitoring at clinics or with home devices.
3. Arthritis, Joint Pain & Inflammation
Common due to wear-and-tear, obesity, and prior injuries. Helpful approaches:
- Gentle exercise (swimming, walking, or seated movements) to maintain mobility.
- Weight management to reduce joint stress.
- Traditional Samoan matalafi (Psychotria insularum) leaf extract has shown anti-inflammatory effects comparable to ibuprofen in studies (reduces cytokines via compounds like rutin). Use under guidance from a traditional healer (taulasea) or doctor.
- Over-the-counter or prescribed pain relief as needed; physical therapy or massage (fofo) can help.
4. Other Common Issues in Samoan Elders
- Heart disease & stroke risk — Control cholesterol with statins (often recommended for diabetics over 40) and manage all NCD risks together.
- Obesity & related problems — Focus on lifelong healthy eating and activity; family support is key in Samoan culture.
- Vision/hearing loss, frailty & falls — Annual checks, home safety modifications, and balanced nutrition (calcium/vitamin D for bones).
- Mental health & isolation — Stay connected through family, church, and community activities.
General Recommendations for Families & Caregivers
- Encourage regular health screenings at district hospitals or clinics (Samoa MoH promotes PEN Fa’a Samoa for NCDs).
- Combine Western medicine with safe traditional practices where evidence supports (e.g., matalafi for inflammation; consult professionals to avoid interactions).
- Promote family-based care: shared meals, physical activity, and emotional support align with fa’a Samoa.
- Prevent complications through medication adherence, foot care, and early reporting of symptoms.
- Seek government or community elderly support programs for additional help.
Important disclaimer: This is general information based on public health data and guidelines. It is not personalized medical advice. Always consult a qualified doctor, nurse, or traditional healer working with modern care for individual needs. Early detection and consistent management can greatly improve quality of life.