Samoa

views updated May 23 2018

SAMOA

LOCATION, SIZE, AND EXTENT
TOPOGRAPHY
CLIMATE
FLORA AND FAUNA
ENVIRONMENT
POPULATION
MIGRATION
ETHNIC GROUPS
LANGUAGES
RELIGIONS
TRANSPORTATION
HISTORY
GOVERNMENT
POLITICAL PARTIES
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
JUDICIAL SYSTEM
ARMED FORCES
INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
ECONOMY
INCOME
LABOR
AGRICULTURE
ANIMAL HUSBANDRY
FISHING
FORESTRY
MINING
ENERGY AND POWER
INDUSTRY
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
DOMESTIC TRADE
FOREIGN TRADE
BALANCE OF PAYMENTS
BANKING AND SECURITIES
INSURANCE
PUBLIC FINANCE
TAXATION
CUSTOMS AND DUTIES
FOREIGN INVESTMENT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
HEALTH
HOUSING
EDUCATION
LIBRARIES AND MUSEUMS
MEDIA
ORGANIZATIONS
TOURISM, TRAVEL, AND RECREATION
FAMOUS SAMOANS
DEPENDENCIES
BIBLIOGRAPHY

Independent State of Samoa

Malo Sa'oloto Tuto'atasi o Samoa i Sisifo

CAPITAL: Apia

FLAG: The upper-left quarter of the flag is blue and bears five white, five-rayed stars representing the Southern Cross; the remainder of the flag is red.

ANTHEM: The Flag of Freedom.

MONETARY UNIT: The Samoan tala (ws$) is a paper currency of 100 sene. There are coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 sene and 1 tala, and notes of 2, 5, 10, 20, and 100 talas. ws$1 = us$0.35962 (or us$1 = ws$2.7807) as of 2004.

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES: British weights and measures are used.

HOLIDAYS: New Year's, 12 January; Independence Holidays (first three workdays of June); Anzac Day, 25 April; Christmas Day, 25 December; Boxing Day, 26 December. Movable religious holidays are Good Friday, Easter Monday, and Whitmonday.

TIME: 1 am = noon GMT.

LOCATION, SIZE, AND EXTENT

Samoa consists of the islands of Savai'i and Upolu and several smaller islands, of which only Manono and Apolima are inhabited. The country, situated almost centrally both in the Pacific Ocean and among the South Sea islands, has a total land area of 2,944 sq km (1,137 sq mi), extending 150 km (93 mi) esewnw and 39 km (24 mi) nnessw. Savai'i and Upolu, separated by the Apolima Strait at a distance of nearly 18 km (11 mi), have a combined coastline of 403 km (250 mi). Comparatively, the area occupied by Samoa is slightly smaller than the state of Rhode Island.

TOPOGRAPHY

Located on the Pacific tectonic plate near the boundary of the Australian Plate, the country lies within the area of "Ring of Fire," a seismically active band surrounding the Pacific Ocean. The islands are, therefore, volcanic in origin, with coral reefs surrounding most of them. Rugged volcanic ranges rise on both islands. Volcanoes on Savai'i include Mauga Afi and Mauga Silisili, the latter of which is the highest point in Samoa, with an elevation of 1,857 m (6,094 ft). Mauga Fito is the highest point on Upolu, with an elevation of 1,116 m (3,660 ft). There are numerous swift-flowing, seasonal rivers on both islands.

Apolima is a volcanic crater whose wall is pierced by a passage that connects its harbor with the sea. Manono, about 70 m (230 ft) high, consists chiefly of coral sand. These two islands lie within the Apolima Strait. There are also a number of underwater volcanoes in the region.

CLIMATE

The climate is tropical, but because of the oceanic surroundings, temperature ranges are not considerable. The hottest month is December, and the coldest is July; the mean daily temperature is about 27°c (81°f). The year is divided into a dry season (May to October) and a wet season (November to April). Rainfall averages 287 cm (113 in) annually, and the average yearly relative humidity is 83%. Although the islands lie outside the normal track of hurricanes, severe storms occurred in 1889, 1966, and 1968. Trade winds from the southeast are fairly constant throughout the dry season.

FLORA AND FAUNA

Lush vegetation covers much of the land. Along the coast there are mangrove forests, pandani, Barringtonia, hibiscus, and strand vegetation, commonly found throughout the Pacific. The adjacent lowland forest, which originally stretched inland over the lower slopes of the mountains, has been cut down extensively on Upolu and in more limited areas on Savai'i. Inland and at higher elevations, the rain forests contain trees and lianas of many genera and species. The higher elevations of Savai'i contain moss forests and mountain scrub.

Fifty species of birds are found; 16 of these are seabirds, many of which visit Samoa only during the breeding season. Sixteen of the 34 species of land birds are indigenous. Among the latter are small doves, parrots, pigeons, and wild ducks. The most interesting bird, scientifically, is the tooth-billed pigeon (Didunculus strigirostris Peale), which some ornithologists regard as the connecting link between bird life of the present and the tooth-billed birds of zoological antiquity.

The only indigenous mammals in Samoa are the rat (Mus exulans Peale) and the flying fox (Pteropus samoensis Peale). Numerous species of birds and mammals, chiefly domesticated, have been introduced by the Samoans and Europeans. Two species of snakes, several different lizards, and the gecko are found. Insect life includes many species of moths, beetles, spiders, and ants. The mosquito (Stegomyia pseudoscutellaris) is a carrier of human filaria.

ENVIRONMENT

Samoa's environmental problems include soil erosion, damage to the nation's forests, and the need for protection of its wildlife. The lack of adequate sewage disposal facilities, as well as siltation and industrial by-products, threaten the nation's marine habitats. Samoa's water supply is too small to support its current population.

Lake Lanoto'o (Goldfish Lake), located on Upolu, is a Ramsar wetland site. The deep lake fills a volcanic crater with pea-greencolored water; wild goldfish inhabit its shorelines. According to a 2006 report issued by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), threatened species include three types of mammals, seven species of birds, one type of reptile, four species of fish, one type of mollusk, and two species of plants. Threatened species include the humpbacked whale, albacore tuna, hawksbill turtle, Samoan moorhen, and Samoan flying fox.

POPULATION

The population of Samoa in 2005 was estimated by the United Nations (UN) at 188,000, which placed it at number 173 in population among the 193 nations of the world. In 2005, approximately 4% of the population was over 65 years of age, with another 41% of the population under 15 years of age. There were 108 males for every 100 females in the country. According to the UN, the annual population rate of change for 200510 was expected to be 2.4%, the highest growth rate in Polynesia and a rate the government viewed as too high. High emigration offsets the high birth rate. The projected population for the year 2025 was 193,000. The population density was 66 per sq km (171 per sq mi).

The UN estimated that 22% of the population lived in urban areas in 2005 and that urban areas were growing at an annual rate of 1.82%. The capital city, Apia, had a population of 40,000 in that year.

MIGRATION

Under German colonial rule, many Chinese laborers were imported to work on plantations. More recently, there has generally been a net annual loss of population through migration. Emigration occurs mainly through students going to New Zealand to continue their education and Samoans seeking work there. In addition, several thousand Samoans live in American Samoa and other parts of the United States. The migration rate in 2000 was -22.8 migrants per 1,000 population, falling to -11.73 in 2005.

ETHNIC GROUPS

Samoans compose about 92.6% of the total population. The Samoans are the second-largest branch of the Polynesians, a people occupying the scattered islands of the Pacific from Hawaii to New Zealand and from eastern Fiji to Easter Island. Most of the remaining Samoans are of mixed Samoan and European or Asian descent. Euronesians (persons of European and Polynesian descent) make up 7% of the total, and Europeans constitute 0.4%.

For many years, all inhabitants of Samoa were accorded a domestic status as Samoan or European. Residents are now officially classed as either citizens or foreigners. Among Samoan citizens, however, the distinction between persons of Samoan or European status is still recognized. Most Samoans live in foreshore villages, while non-Samoans predominate in Apia and its environs.

LANGUAGES

Samoan is the universal language, but both Samoan and English are official. Some Chinese is also spoken. Most of the part Samoans and many others speak English, and it is taught in the schools.

RELIGIONS

Over 99% of Samoans profess some form of Christianity, and religious observance is strong among all groups. The Congregational Christian Church of Western Samoa, a successor to the London Missionary Society, is self-supporting and the largest religious body in the country, representing about 34.8% of the population. The Roman Catholic (19.6%) and Methodist churches (15%) also have large followings. The Mormons (12.7%), Assemblies of God (6.6%), and Seventh-Day Adventists (3.5%) have grown in recent years. The country is home to one of seven Baha'i Houses of Worship in the world. There are a small number of Muslims.

The constitution provides for religious freedom but describes the state as "based on Chrsistian principles and Samoan customs." Though the right to choose one's own faith is generally respected by the government, local village chiefs sometimes choose the religious denomination that is followed by their group; there have been cases where members of the village tribe who did not adhere to this designated faith were punished by tribal leaders or banished from the village.

TRANSPORTATION

The road system in 2002 totaled 836 km (519 mi), of which 267 km (166 mi) were paved. Most roads are on the northern coast of Upolu. Buses and taxis provide public transportation. In 2003, there were 6,400 passenger cars and 6,700 commercial vehicles.

Diesel-powered launches carry passengers and freight around the islands, and small motor vessels maintain service between Apia and Pago Pago in American Samoa. Fortnightly cargo and passenger connections are maintained with New Zealand, and scheduled transpacific services connect Samoa with Australian, Japanese, United Kingdom, and North American ports. Apia is the principal port. Asau, on Savai'i, was opened as a second deepsea port in 1972. As of 2005, there was one cargo vessel of 1,000 GRT or more, totaling 7,091 GRT.

As of 2004, there were four airports, three of which (as of 2005) had a paved runway. Faleolo Airport, 35 km (22 mi) west of Apia, is the principal air terminal. Polynesian Airlines provides daily air connections with Pago Pago and regularly scheduled flights to other Pacific destinations; through Pago Pago there are connecting flights to New Zealand, Australia, and the United States. Air Samoa and Samoa Aviation provide internal air service between Upolu and Savai'i, and Hawaiian Airlines provides direct service between Honolulu and Faleolo and commuter service between Faleolo and Pago Pago. In 2001 (the latest year for which data was available), 173,500 passengers were carried on scheduled domestic and international flights.

HISTORY

Archaeological evidence on Upolu indicates that Samoa was colonized by maritime traders of the Lapita culture at least as early as the 1st millennium bc. From the mid-13th century ad, genealogies, important titles, traditions, and legends give considerable information on the main political events. The first Europeans to sight the islands were the Dutch explorer Jacob Roggeveen in 1722 and the French navigator Louis de Bougainville in 1768. But the world knew little about Samoa until after the arrival of the missionary John Williams in 1830 and the establishment of the London Missionary Society.

Williams's arrival coincided with the victory of one group of chiefs over another, ending a series of violent internecine wars. Runaway sailors and other Europeans had already settled among the Samoans and assisted the chiefs in their campaigns. Whalers also visited the islands, and from time to time the warships of the great powers visited Apia to oversee the activities of whaling crews and settlers. Naval officers and missionaries began to consult with the dominant group of chiefs as if it represented a national government and treated its leader as a king. In time, semiofficial representatives of Great Britain and the United States were stationed in Apia. Between 1847 and 1861, the United States appointed a commercial agent, and Britain and the city of Hamburg appointed consuls.

Factional rivalries took a new turn as British, US, and German consular agents, aided sometimes by their countries' warships, aligned themselves with various paramount chiefs. Intrigues among the chiefs and jealousies among the representatives of the great powers culminated in civil war in 1889. In the Berlin Treaty, which followed, Britain, the United States, and Germany set up a neutral and independent government under King Malietoa Laupepea, and their consuls were authorized to constitute Apia as a separate municipality. The death of King Malietoa in 1898 led to a dispute over succession, and the three powers intervened once again. In 1899, they abolished the kingship, and in 1900, they signed a series of conventions that made Samoa a German protectorate. The German administration continued to experience difficulties, leading to the exile of several Samoan leaders and the suspension of others from office. With the outbreak of World War I in 1914, New Zealand military forces occupied Samoa, and from 1919 to 1946, New Zealand administered the islands as a mandate of the League of Nations.

In 1927, local opposition to the New Zealand administration among both the Samoan and the European communities resulted in the formation of a nationalistic organization known as the Mau, which embarked on a program of civil disobedience. Its members withdrew from political life, from schools, and from all contact with the government. The protests lasted in one form or another until 1936, when the leaders of the Mau reached an agreement with the administration and reentered the political life of the territory.

In 1946, a trusteeship agreement was approved by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, and New Zealand formally committed itself to promoting the development of Samoa toward ultimate self-government. The passage of the Samoa Amendment Act of 1947 and a series of further amendments governed Samoa's subsequent evolution toward independence. An executive council was reconstituted in 1957, and the New Zealand high commissioner withdrew from the Legislative Assembly, which thenceforth was presided over by an elected speaker. In 1959, an executive cabinet was introduced, and in 1960, the constitution of the Independent State of Samoa was adopted. This was followed by a plebiscite under UN supervision in 1961, in which an overwhelming majority of voters approved the adoption of the constitution and supported independence.

On 1 January 1962, Samoa became an independent nation under the name of Western Samoa. Tupua Tamasese Meaoli and Malietoa Tanumafili II became joint heads of state. When the former died on 5 April 1963, the latter became the sole head of state. Fiame Faumuina Mataafa was independent Western Samoa's first prime minister (196270) and served again in that post from 1973 until his death in 1975.

During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Western Samoa suffered from a worsening economy and growing political and social unrest. A divisive public-sector strike from 6 April to 2 July 1981 cut many essential services to a critical level. The leadership of Tupuola Taisi Efi, who later became head of the Christian Democratic Party (CDP) and was prime minister in 1976, was successfully challenged by the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP), which won the February 1982 general election. Judicial rulings regarding electoral fraud subsequently nullified some of the election results, and Tupuola returned to power from September to December.

On 30 December 1982, however, a second HRPP government was formed, with Tofilau Eti, the new HRPP leader, as prime minister. Controversy erupted in 1982 over the signing of a protocol with New Zealand that substantially reduced the right of Western Samoans to New Zealand citizenship. Tofilau resigned in December 1985 after his budget failed to win approval, and Va'ai Kolone became prime minister in January 1986 as head of a new coalition government comprising 15 CDP members and 12 former HRPP members. Tupuola was named deputy prime minister of the new government. Tofilau Eti, leader of the HRPP, was reelected prime minister in April 1988 as a result of a contested election that was settled by a judge flown in from New Zealand. A gradual deterioration in the bilateral relationship between Samoa and New Zealand continued as the two nations disputed the special immigration quota applied to Samoans.

In October 1990, a referendum on the issue of universal suffrage narrowly passed. A proposal to establish an upper legislative chamber composed of traditional chiefs failed.

In 1991, in the first elections held under an arrangement of universal suffrage, the HRPP won 28 of 47 seats and Tofilau once again became prime minister. Among the new ministers appointed was Fiame Naomi, the first female cabinet member, becoming minister of education, youth, sports and culture, and labor. In elections held 26 April 1996, Tofilau Eti retained his post as prime minister.

In July 1997, following an affirmative vote by the legislative assembly, the country officially changed its name from Western Samoa to Samoa. Tofilau Eti resigned due to poor health in November 1998 and died in March 1999 at the age of 74. He was succeeded by deputy prime minister Tuila'epa Sailelel Malielegaoi. In elections held 2 March 2001, Tuila'epa retained his post as prime minister, with the HRPP taking 23 seats in the Fono. The Supreme Court ordered four by-elections, which were won by the HRPP, bringing its total to 30 of 49 parliamentary seats. The HRPP formed a government with the support of several independent members of parliament.

In June 2002, New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark issued an apology to the Samoans for injustices inflicted upon them during colonial times. During the time when New Zealand ruled the country (from 1919 to 1962), 22% of the population died as a result of an influenza virus introduced to the islands, and in 1929, New Zealand police fired upon and killed nine people during a rally for independence.

In the early 2000s, Samoa again faced economic concerns. Declining fish catches led the government in 2004 to appoint a committee to investigate the problem and to consider suspending fishermen's loan payments. In addition, the government banned scuba fishing with the hope of allowing the fish populations to rise. In 2005, Samoan doctors struck for higher wages and better working conditions. When their demands were not met, 25 hospital doctors resigned, while foreign doctors maintained a skeleton crew.

In December 2005, Samoa was still negotiating for membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO), for which it first applied in 1998. A key issue in the negotiations was the privatization of Samoan public services. Opponents of Samoa joining the WTO cited concerns that Samoa could lose control of its natural resources and find its markets saturated with cheap inferior goods from overseas.

GOVERNMENT

Executive power is vested in the head of state. Although Malietoa Tanumafili II, head of state in 1962, had lifetime tenure, the constitution took effect 1 January that year; it provided for his successors to be elected for a term of five years by the Fono, or legislative assembly. The powers and functions of the head of state are far-reaching. All legislation must have his assent before it becomes law. He also has power to grant pardons and reprieves and to suspend or commute any sentence by any court. Executive authority is administered by a cabinet consisting of a prime minister and 12 other ministers appointed by him. The head of state and the cabinet members make up the executive council.

The 49-member parliament consists of the head of state and the Fono. Forty-seven Samoan members are elected out of the approximately 20,000 mataitraditional chiefs or heads of familiesin six two-seat and 35 single-seat constituencies. The election of the 47 Samoan members is by universal adult suffrage. Citizens of non-Samoan origin who qualify for registration on the individual voters' roll elect the two other members by universal suffrage.

The next elections are to be held no later than March 2011.

POLITICAL PARTIES

Technically, candidates for public office campaign as individuals, but political parties are becoming increasingly important. The Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) was founded in 1979 as an opposition party to the government of Prime Minister Tupuola Efi. Tupuola's followers, although not yet formally organized, had, in effect, constituted the ruling party; Tupuola later became the head of the Christian Deomocratic Party (CDP). Other parties winning seats in the 2001 elections were the Samoan National Development Party (SNDP), which took 13 seats, and the Samoa United People's Party (SUPP), which took one seat. Independent candidates won 11 seats. The next elections were to be held no later than March 2006.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

With the exception of the Apia area, local government is carried out by the village fono, or council of matai and orators, and where and when necessary, through meetings of matai and orators of a district. The main administrative link between the central government and the outside districts is provided by part-time officials in each village who act as government agents in such matters as the registration of vital statistics; local inspectors represent the various government departments.

JUDICIAL SYSTEM

Court procedure is patterned after practices in British courts. Samoan custom is taken into consideration in certain cases. English is the official language of the court, but Samoan is also used. The Supreme Court has full civil and criminal jurisdiction over the administration of justice in Samoa. It is under the jurisdiction of the chief judge, who is appointed by the head of state, acting on the advice of the prime minister. The Court of Appeal consists of three judges, who may be judges of the Supreme Court or other persons with appropriate qualifications.

Magistrates' courts are subordinate courts with varying degrees of authority. The highest, presided over by the senior magistrate, may hear criminal cases involving imprisonment of up to three years or cases involving only fines. The Land and Titles Court has jurisdiction in disputes over Samoan land and succession to Samoan titles. Samoan assessors and associate judges possessing a good knowledge of Samoan custom must be present at all sittings of the court. Lawyers are not permitted to appear in the Land and Titles Court; each party appoints its own leader, usually a chief or an orator. Court decisions are based largely on Samoan custom.

Some civil and criminal matters are handled by village fonos (traditional courts), which apply a considerably different procedure than that used in the official Western-style courts. The Village Fono Law of 1990 affords legal status to the decision of the village fono and allows the appeal of fono decisions to the Land and Titles Court and to the Supreme Court. In July 2000, the Supreme Court ruled that the Village Fono Law could not be used to infringe upon villagers' freedom of religion, speech, assembly, or association.

ARMED FORCES

Samoa has no armed forces and relies on its police force for internal security. The government foresees no military development because of financial considerations and the absence of threats from abroad. There are informal defense ties with New Zealand under the terms of the 1962 Treaty of Friendship.

INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

Samoa became a member of the United Nations (UN) on 15 December 1976; it belongs to ESCAP and several nonregional specialized agencies, such as the FAO, the World Bank, UNCTAD, UNESCO, and WHO.

The nation also participates in the ACP Group, the Asian Development Bank, the Commonwealth of Nations, G-77, the South Pacific Commission, the South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement (Sparteca), the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), and the Pacific Island Forum. Samoa has observer status in the World Trade Organization.

An Inter-Samoa Consultative Committee, made up of representatives from Samoa and American Samoa, holds meetings alternately in both countries to discuss matters of mutual interest. By treaty, New Zealand is the exclusive representative of Samoa in the conduct of its foreign affairs outside the Pacific region. In environmental cooperation, Samoa is part of the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Kyoto Protocol, the Montréal Protocol, MARPOL, the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, and the UN Conventions on the Law of the Sea, Climate Change, and Desertification.

ECONOMY

The economy is based largely on agriculture, which, including fisheries, provides 50% of the gross domestic product (GDP) and employs two-thirds of the workforce, mostly in subsistence farming of food crops. In addition to agricultural exports, tourist revenues and remittances from overseas workers are also important sources of foreign exchange. Economic performance has suffered since 1990 due to the devastation to crops, tourism, and infrastructure caused by Cyclones Ofa and Val. In 199394 a fungal disease reduced taro production by 97%, threatening the island's basic food crop and causing negative growth in the economy. Samoa has the highest unemployment rate and the lowest wages in Oceania.

In 2004, the GDP growth rate was 1.9%, down from 3.5% in 2003. The inflation rate registered a sudden jump in 2004, to 16.4%, as a result of food shortages caused by hurricane damage early in the year; by the middle of 2005 the inflation had been brought back down to 7.6%, and it was on a continued downward trend. Great hopes are set for the tourism industry, with visitor numbers expected to double by 2010. The main engine of this growth trend is a new airlinePolynesian Blue, which operates flights between Samoa, Australia, and New Zealand.

INCOME

The US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) reports that in 2005 Samoa's gross domestic product (GDP) was estimated at $1.0 billion. The CIA defines GDP as the value of all final goods and services produced within a nation in a given year and computed on the basis of purchasing power parity (PPP) rather than value as measured on the basis of the rate of exchange based on current dollars. The per capita GDP was estimated at $5,600. The annual growth rate of GDP was estimated at 5%. The average inflation rate in 2001 was 4%. It was estimated that agriculture accounted for 14% of GDP, industry 23%, and services 63%.

According to the World Bank, in 2000, remittances from citizens working abroad totaled $45 million, or about $253 per capita, and accounted for approximately 19.5% of GDP.

LABOR

In 2000, there were approximately 90,000 workers in Samoa. The majority were engaged in agriculture, and cash crops are raised as supplements to subsistence crops. Agriculture, forestry, and fishing account for 65% of wage employment; services account for 30% and industry for 5%. Although there are no data on unemployment in Samoa, underemployment is known to be substantial.

There are only two trade unions in the country, representing workers at the three major banks and the country's only factory. Although small, a trade union movement has been established. Public employees are represented by the Public Service Association. Approximately 20% of the workforce is unionized. Over the years, thousands of skilled and semiskilled Samoans have left the islands, drawn away mainly by better economic opportunities in New Zealand, Australia, and the United States.

Labor is generally restricted to a 40-hour week. Payment is in cash, and in many cases rations are also supplied to workers, either as part of their wages or in addition to them. In most cases, living quarters are provided for plantation workers. The minimum hourly wage was $0.47 in 2001. Samoan labor law provides for rudimentary safety and health standards, but these standards are not effectively enforced. Children may not work before the age of 15, but the law does not apply to service rendered to the matai, who sometimes require children to work on village farms. Moreover, increasing numbers of children work as street vendors in Apia.

AGRICULTURE

Tropical agriculture occupies 46% of the land area, employs about 34% of the labor force, and makes up about 12% of gross domestic product (GDP). Most Samoans grow food crops for home consumption and cash crops for export. Village agriculture, in which the family is the productive unit, involves the largest areas of land, occupies the preponderance of the labor force, and produces the major portion of food and cash crops. Coconut products, cocoa, taro, and bananas are produced for export, and bananas, taro, and taamu are grown for local sale. Village plantings are invariably mixed, containing some or all of the following crops: coconuts, cocoa, bananas, taro, taamu, breadfruit, sugarcane, yams, manioc, and various fruits. Plantation agriculture has been controlled mainly by nonindigenous residents.

Exports of unprocessed copra have been largely replaced by coconut oil, coconut cream, and copra cake. In 2004, coconut production was estimated at 140,000 tons. Taro (coco yam) production in 2004 amounted to 17,000 tons. Taro production dropped 97% in 199394 due to leaf blight, and the government is working on methods to control the disease. Exports of cocoa have fallen in recent years, thereby discouraging production. Since 1991, no production over 1,000 tons has been reported. Banana exports fluctuate greatly from year to year. Exports of agricultural products in 2004 amounted to $5.6 million, while agricultural imports totaled $40.6 million that year.

ANIMAL HUSBANDRY

Pigs and cattle form the bulk of the livestock. In 2005, pigs, which are common in the villages, were estimated to number 201,000 and cattle 29,000. A small number of cattle are kept for milk; the remainder are raised for beef. Nearly one-half of the cattle population is owned by Western Samoa Trust Estate Corporation (WSTEC), the most progressive cattle breeder. Other livestock in 2005 included an estimated 7,000 donkeys and 1,800 horses. Meat production in 2005 was 5,140 tons, 74% of it pork.

FISHING

The government has sought to expand the fishing industry, but most fishing is still conducted along the reefs and coasts; deep-sea fishing, save for bonito and shark, is not developed. A $3 million fish market and wharf, built with Japanese aid, was completed in Apia in 1982. The local fish catch, however, steadily fell from 4,020 tons in 1982 to 565 tons in 1991; by 2003, the catch rebounded to 10,267 tons, with tuna comprising about 40%.

FORESTRY

The nation's forest area is estimated at 105,000 hectares (259,000 acres). Reforestation projects are concentrated on Savai'i, which accounts for 80% of the nation's forest area. A large-scale timbermilling enterprise, established on Savai'i in 1970, began to produce kiln-dried sawn timber and veneer sheets for export. Roundwood production in 2004 was 131,000 cu m (4.6 million cu ft), with 53% used as fuel wood. Timber imports were estimated at $5.6 million in 2004.

MINING

No minerals of commercial value were known to exist in Samoa.

ENERGY AND POWER

Samoa formerly depended heavily on imported energy, but hydroelectric power, first available in 1985, has greatly increased its generating capacity. In 2002, net electricity generation was 0.111 billion kWh, of which 50.5% came from fossil fuels and 49.5% from hydropower. In the same year, consumption of electricity totaled 0.103 million kWh. Total installed capacity in 2002 was 0.029 million kW.

Samoa has no reserves of oil, natural gas, or coal, nor any refining capacity. All fossil fuel needs were met by imports of refined petroleum products. In 2002, imports and demand each averaged 1,020 barrels per day. Gasoline and distillates made up the majority of those imports at 400 barrels per day and 450 barrels per day, respectively.

INDUSTRY

The government has encouraged industrial growth, and manufacturing, geared mainly to processing primary products, is increasing steadily. Industries include food- and timber-processing facilities, a brewery, cigarette and match factories, and small individual enterprises for processing coffee and for manufacturing curios, soap, carbonated drinks, light metal products, garments, footwear, and other consumer products. A coconut oil mill, an additional coconut cream factory, a veneer mill, and a meat cannery began operations in the 1980s. In 1991, the Japanese Yazaki Samsa Co. began manufacturing automotive seat belts. The firm also produces electrical wiring systems.

In 2000, the industrial production growth rate was 2.8%, less than half the GDP growth rate in the same year and an indicator of an underperforming sector. In 2001, industry accounted for 23% of GDP; services were the main economic engine, with a 63% share. Although agriculture had only a 14% share in the economy, it employed two-thirds of the labor force and was responsible for 90% of total exports.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

New Zealand provides extensive scientific and technical aid to Samoa. Other donors include Japan, the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG), Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has an integrated field office in Apia to promote science in the Pacific States. The National University of Samoa, founded in 1988 at Apia, has a faculty of science. The University of the South Pacific, founded in 1977 at Apia, has a school of agriculture.

DOMESTIC TRADE

Apia, the capital, is the center of commercial life. Many firms act as agents for shipping and airlines and for overseas commercial organizations generally. Outside Apia, trading stations, linked with the capital by launch and road transport, collect produce and distribute consumer goods. Several major firms operate about 200 stations in the outer districts and secure a large share of the total commercial business. There are also a number of smaller firms and independent traders. In Apia, various firms and small shops sell imported commodities and domestic products. Open markets sponsoring local produce vendors are a common food retailing situation for a nation where 65% of the workforce is employed in agriculture. The largest such market is Meketi Fou in Apia. Office hours are from 8 am to noon and resume from 1 pm to 4:30 pm.

FOREIGN TRADE

The fact that Samoa has a limited number of exportsprincipally agricultural and timber productsrenders its economy extremely

CountryExportsImportsBalance
World87.1150.5-63.4
Australia62.233.328.9
United States11.420.9-9.5
United Kingdom3.91.32.6
Japan2.87.8-5.0
New Zealand2.454.6-52.2
Tokelau1.21.2
New Caledonia1.01.0
Italy-San Marino-Holy See0.70.20.5
China, Hong Kong SAR0.41.5-1.1
Germany0.30.20.1
() data not available or not significant.

vulnerable to weather conditions and market fluctuations. Imports consist chiefly of machinery and equipment, industrial supplies, and foodstuffs. The principal exports include fish, coconut oil and cream, copra, taro, garments, and beer. Foodstuffs and industrial supplies account for about 50% of the country's annual imports.

In 2004, exports totaled $94 million (FOBFree on Board), while imports grew to $285 million. Most of the exports went to Australia (67.2%), the United States (5.7%), and Indonesia (5.3%). Imports included food and live animals, mineral fuels, crude nonfuel materials, beverages, and tobacco and primarily came from New Zealand (25.1%), Fiji (21.5%), Taiwan (9.1%), Australia (8.9%), Singapore (8.5%), Japan (7.5%), and the United States (4.7%).

BALANCE OF PAYMENTS

In the early 1970s, Samoa's heavy trade deficits were largely offset by tourism revenues, remittances from Samoans working abroad, and long-term investment capital. By the early 1980s, however, rising import costs and declining export earnings led to a critical balance-of-payments situation. By 1992, the external account deficit (excluding grants) had increased to about 28% of GDP. Samoa's external debt stood at $192 million in 1999.

The US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) reported that in 2000 the purchasing power parity of Samoa's exports was $17 million, while imports totaled $90 million, resulting in a trade deficit of $73 million.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reported that in 1999 Samoa had exports of goods totaling $20 million and imports totaling $116 million. The services credit totaled $61 million and debit $25 million.

Exports of goods and services totaled $98 million in 2004, up from $86 million in 2003. Imports grew from $154 million in 2003 to $181 million in 2004. The resource balance was consequently negative and on a downward pathfrom -$68 million in 2003 to -$83 million in 2004. An opposite trend was registered for the current account balance, which improved from $8 million in 2003 to $15 million in 2004. Foreign exchange reserves (including gold)

Current Account18.2
     Balance on goods-97.5
         Imports-115.7
         Exports20.3
     Balance on services36.8
     Balance on income0.4
     Current transfers41.6
Capital Account24.5
Financial Account-0.7
     Direct investment abroad
     Direct investment in Samoa
     Portfolio investment assets
     Portfolio investment liabilities
     Financial derivatives
     Other investment assets
     Other investment liabilities-0.7
Net Errors and Omissions2.1
Reserves and Related Items-7.0
() data not available or not significant.

increased to $204 million in 2004, covering more than six months of imports.

BANKING AND SECURITIES

Legislation in 1974 set up the Monetary Board to act as the central bank. The activities of the Monetary Board were taken over in May 1984 by the new Central Bank of Samoa. An Australian bank, ANZ, acquired the government's 25% stake in the Bank of Western Samoa (BWS), becoming its outright owner. The BWS is the largest bank in the country, with assets of about a$16 million (us$13 million). The government has sold its Post Office Savings Bank (POSB) to a consortium of local businesses. The bank, to be renamed the National Bank of Samoa, is the country's first locally owned commercial bank. The other banks are Pacific Commercial Bank (owned by Westpac, the Bank of Hawaii, and local shareholders) and the Development Bank of Western Samoa.

Parliament passed legislation in early 1988 to allow banks to set up offshore banking centers. More the 1,000 companies have registered in Apia under the new tax haven legislation, contributing substantially to the national budget. The International Monetary Fund reports that in 2001, currency and demand depositsan aggregate commonly known as M1were equal to $24.5 million. In that same year, M2an aggregate equal to M1 plus savings deposits, small time deposits, and money market mutual fundswas $86.6 million.

INSURANCE

There is a private life insurance company in Apia, National Pacific Insurance Ltd., managed by the National Insurance Co. of New Zealand.

PUBLIC FINANCE

Samoa's financial year ends on 31 December. Government budgets commonly show deficits.

The US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) estimated that in 200102 Samoa's central government took in revenues of approximately $105 million and had expenditures of $119 million. Revenues minus expenditures totaled approximately -$14 million. Total external debt was $197 million.

TAXATION

Individuals and companies are liable for the payment of income tax. The basic nonresident corporate tax rate is 48%, and the resident corporate tax rate is 39%; rates for both domestic and foreign insurance companies are lower. Personal income tax rates range from 550%. There are also gift, inheritance, and stamp taxes.

CUSTOMS AND DUTIES

Customs duties provide almost half of current government revenues and are levied on all imports except those specifically exempted. Preferential rates for imports from Commonwealth countries were abolished in 1975.

FOREIGN INVESTMENT

The government actively promotes the establishment of industries financed by overseas companies. These include milling and logging operations by a US company on Savai'i and by a joint Japanese-Samoan enterprise on Upolu, and a US hotel resort center near Apia.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The government has consistently stressed diversification of agriculture. It has also sought to promote growth in manufacturing, forestry, fishing, hydroelectric power, and tourism, which received a boost when the Falento Airport got a new terminal and runway extension in 1985. In 1989, an offshore banking center was launched. New Zealand, Australia, the United States, the Asian Development Bank, and the European Community are major sources of development aid, and Japan and Germany have provided technical and financial aid. Assistance from the UN family of organizations totaled us$2.6 million in 1991. The country's fifth development plan (198587) called for an investment of ws$146.9 million, ws114.2 million of it from external sources. Investment increased significantly in 1990 and 1992, mainly due to increased public capital expenditures. External aid has been a major source of public investment financing, providing approximately 68% of capital expenditures in 1991 and 47% in 1992.

The Samoan economy remains dependent on foreign aid, remittances from overseas, agriculture (it employs two-thirds of the labor force and accounts for 90% of total exports), and fishing. Tourism is a sector of increasing importance, and the government is implementing infrastructure changes (most notably, a new airline) that it hopes will double visitor arrivals by 2010.

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

A social security system was established in 1972 under the Western Samoan National Provident Fund. It provides for employee retirement pensions, disability benefits, and death benefits. Employees contribute 5% of their earnings, and this amount is matched by their employers. Retirement is allowed at age 55. Workers' compensation is funded by employers and is compulsory. This program covers reasonable medical expenses and is paid for entirely by employer contributions.

Domestic abuse is common and considered culturally acceptable, except in the most extreme cases. Police are rarely notified and domestic issues are resolved within the village structure. Universal suffrage was enacted in 1990, and the following year, a Women's Affairs Ministry was established. The government sponsors literacy programs to assist in integrating women into the economic mainstream.

Human rights are generally well respected in Samoa.

HEALTH

The Department of Health oversees health care on the islands. The country is divided into 14 health districts, each under a medical officer. In 2004, there were an estimated 70 physicians, 202 nurses, and 18 dentists per 100,000 people. District nurses are stationed at strategic points throughout the islands. Child health clinics, particularly clinics for young children and infants, are a regular feature of their work. Approximately 91% of children were vaccinated against measles. A mobile dental clinic operates in the villages, while all schools in Apia are visited at regular intervals by a team of dental practitioners.

Diabetic retinopathy is common in Polynesian Samoans. The increase in diabetes has been linked to the Westernization of the Samoan diet. The life expectancy was estimated at 70.72 years as of 2005. During the same year, the infant mortality rate was an estimated 27.71 per 1,000 births. As of 2002, the crude birth rate and overall mortality rate were estimated at 15.5 and 6.4 per 1,000 people, respectively.

The immunization rates for children under age one were as follows: diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus, 95%; polio, 95%; measles, 98%; and tuberculosis, 98%. Tuberculosis and AIDS are present but not considered major problems.

HOUSING

Most Samoans live in villages in traditional Samoan houses called fales. A fale is usually round or oval, with pebble floors and a thatch roof. It has no walls, being supported on the sides by posts. Coconut-leaf blinds can be lowered to exclude wind and rain. In areas more affected by contact with Europeans, the fale may have a concrete floor, corrugated iron roof, and latticework walls. Another fused Samoan-European type, much used by chiefs and pastors, is an oblong concrete house with some walls, often with separate rooms in each corner; like the fale it is open at the sides. Fales are grouped around an open area in the center of the village and have separate cookhouses behind them.

More modern housing has been constructed since about the 1990s, primarily through international assistance. Solid wall structures with concrete foundations and iron roofs have been built to withstand the natural elements of harsh wind, rain, and cyclones. However, low-income families are not able to purchase or build such structures without assistance. The Housing Corporation of Samoa was established by the Housing Corporation Act of 1989 to offer loans and assistance for prospective homeowners. In 2001, there were about 23,059 households in Samoa; the average number of members per household was eight.

EDUCATION

Formal education is provided by the Department of Education and five religious missions. Government and mission schools have a uniform syllabus and common examinations. The government school system is more comprehensive, with almost all teachers holding Samoan teachers' certificates. Village schools provide four years of primary schooling. District schools draw the brighter pupils from village schools and educate them through the upper primary level. In the Apia area, urban schools provide a lower-through upper-primary curriculum. A major educational goal has been to make Samoans bilingual, with English as their second tongue. In the senior classes of the primary schools, all instruction is in English.

The government maintains secondary schools, in which the medium of instruction is English. Samoa College is patterned after a New Zealand secondary school; each year, 100 pupils from government and mission schools are selected for admission by competitive examination. Vaipouli High School, in Savai'i, provides a general secondary curriculum, and Avele College, in Apia, offers training in modern agricultural methods. In addition, the University of the South Pacific School of Agriculture maintains a campus at Alafua, on the outskirts of Apia. The medium of instruction in mission secondary schools is English, with curriculum and textbooks similar to those used in New Zealand.

In 2001, about 54% of children between the ages of three and four were enrolled in some type of preschool program. Primary school enrollment in 2003 was estimated at about 98% of age-eligible students. The same year, secondary school enrollment was about 62% of age-eligible students. It is estimated that nearly all students complete their primary education. The student-to-teacher ratio for primary school was at about 27:1 in 2003; the ratio for secondary school was about 21:1. In 2003, private schools accounted for about 16.6% of primary school enrollment and 31.7% of secondary enrollment.

Samoa was one of the founders of the regional University of the South Pacific. The National University, which was established in 1984, was upgraded and provided with a new campus in 1997. Other tertiary institutions include the College of Tropical Agriculture and a Trades Training College. In 2001, it was estimated that about 7% of the tertiary-age population was enrolled in tertiary education programs. The adult literacy rate for 2004 was estimated at about 98.7%.

As of 2003, public expenditures on education were estimated at 4.8% of GDP, or 14.6% of total government expenditures.

LIBRARIES AND MUSEUMS

The Nelson Memorial Public Library in Apia has 90,000 volumes. The library of the University of the South Pacific has around 22,000 volumes, and the Legislative Assembly has a library with 6,000 volumes. A bookmobile service operates on Upolu and Savai'i. The National Museum and Culture Center in Apia, established in 1984, includes a local museum, library, and theater and offers crafts workshops. Vailima is home to the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, featuring the author's house and estate.

MEDIA

Internal and overseas wireless telegraph services are available. In 2002, there were 11,800 mainline phones and 2,700 mobile phones in use nationwide.

The government-controlled Samoan Broadcasting Service, in Apia, transmits radio programs on two stations in Samoan and English and provides direct broadcasts from the Fono. In 2004, there were five private radio stations and a satellite cable system available in parts of Apia. One of the two television stations was owned by the government. In 1997, there were 323 radios and 25 television sets in use per 1,000 population. In 2002, there were 4,000 Internet subscribers.

There are several bilingual weeklies, including Le Samoa and Savali, published in Samoan and English. There is one daily, the Samoan Times. The constitution provides for free speech and a free press, and the government is said to respect these provisions in practice.

ORGANIZATIONS

The Samoa Chamber of Commerce and Industry is based in Apia.

Youth clubs include the Boy's Brigade Samoa, University of South Pacific Student Association, and YMCA/YWCA. There are several sports associations representing such pastimes as squash, weightlifting, badminton, tae kwon do, and sailing. Many of these are affiliated with the national Olympic Committee and other international organizations.

Volunteer service organizations, such as the Lions Clubs International and the Calliope Lodge of Freemasons, are present. Women's organizations include Soroptimist International of Samoa, Mothers' Club, Federation of Women's Committees, and the South-East Asia and Pan-Pacific Women's Association. Mapusaga O Aiga Samoa is a national organization promoting public awareness of issues concerning child abuse and domestic violence. There are national chapters of the Red Cross Society and Habitat for Humanity.

TOURISM, TRAVEL, AND RECREATION

Until 1965, official policy in Samoa was opposed to tourism, but during 196667, there was a complete reversal of policy. The government hired international tourism consultants to advise it on long-term means of developing a tourism industry. Samoa joined the Pacific Area Travel Association, extended tax holidays and import-duty concessions to hotel builders, and appropriated money for the building of new hotels.

The major tourist attractions are the beaches and traditional villages. In Apia is Vailima, the residence of the head of state and once the home of Robert Louis Stevenson; Stevenson's grave is nearby. Pastimes include swimming, waterskiing, and fishing. Football (soccer), cricket, and rugby are popular local sports.

Travelers to Samoa must have a passport valid for at least six months, as well as an onward/return ticket. Visitors do not require a visa or entry permit for stays of up to 60 days. In 2003, 92,313 tourists visited Samoa. Hotel rooms numbered 939, with 2,131 beds.

According to 2005 US State Department estimates, the daily cost of staying in Samoa was $207 per day.

FAMOUS SAMOANS

The Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson (185094) lived principally on Upolu from 1889 until his death. Samoans famous since independence include Malietoa Tanumafili II (b.1913), who was named head of state in 1962, and Fiame Faumuina Mataafa (d.1975), who served as prime minister from 1962 to 1970 and again from 1973 until his death. Tupuola Taisi Efi (b.1938) was prime minister from 1976 to 1982. Tofilau Eti (b.American Samoa, 192499) was prime minister from December 1982 to December 1985, when he resigned and was succeeded by Va'ai Kolone. Sailele Malielegaoi Tuila'epa (b.1945) has been prime minister and foreign minister since 1998 and was reelected in 2001.

DEPENDENCIES

Samoa has no territories or colonies.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Craig, Robert D. Historical Dictionary of Polynesia. Lanham, Md.: Scarecrow, 2002.

Freeman, Derek. Margaret Mead and Samoa: The Making and Unmaking of an Anthropological Myth. Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press, 1983.

Gilson, R. P. Samoa 1830 to 1900: The Politics of a Multi-Cultural Community. New York: Oxford University Press, 1970.

Leibo, Steven A. East and Southeast Asia, 2005. 38th ed. Harpers Ferry, W.Va.: Stryker-Post Publications, 2005.

Lockwood, Victoria S. (ed.). Globalization and Culture Change in the Pacific Islands. Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Pearson/Prentice Hall, 2004.

Mead, Margaret. Coming of Age in Samoa. London: Penguin, 1961 (orig. 1928).

Samoa

views updated May 17 2018

SAMOA

Independent State of Samoa

Malo Sa'oloto Tuto'atasi o Samoa i Sisifo

COUNTRY OVERVIEW

LOCATION AND SIZE.

Located in the South Pacific Ocean, about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand and just east of the International Date Line. The country consists of 2 large islandsSavai'i to the west and Upolu to the eastand several smaller islands. It has a land area of 2,850 square kilometers (1,100 square miles) and a coastline of 403 kilometers (250 miles), making it slightly smaller than Rhode Island. The capital city, Apia is located on the north coast of Upolu.

POPULATION.

The population of Samoa was estimated at 169,200 in mid-2000, an increase of 17 percent since the census of 1991. In 2000 the birth rate stood at 30.3 per 1,000 people, while the death rate was 6.4 per 1,000. With a projected annual population growth rate of only 0.6 percent between 2000 and 2010, Samoa would have 179,000 by 2010; the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) World Factbook 2001 estimated the population at 179,058 for 2001, though. The low growth rate resulted mainly from a high rate of outward-migration, which in 2000 was estimated at 17.6 per 1,000. This migration is mostly to the United States and New Zealand.

The population is predominantly of Samoan (Polynesian) ethnic origin, although about 7 percent also have European origins. Only 21 percent of the population live in an urban area, with Apia accounting for most of this. The urban growth rate is twice as high as the general growth rate, but at 1.2 percent per year still relatively low by Pacific standards.

OVERVIEW OF ECONOMY

As a small island country in the South Pacific, Samoa (formerly Western Samoa) has an economy largely based on agriculture, government and tourist services, and remittances from Samoans living abroad. The majority of households in Samoa are dependent on subsistence production for at least part of their food supply and other basic items. At the same time, most households rely on cash income to provide basics that are not available from subsistence. In other words, food products grown or caught for personal consumptionsuch as taro, coconut, banana, fish, and crayfishare also sold to generate cash for village households.

The export economy mainly relies on agricultural products. The most important of these are coconut products such as copra (the dried flesh of the coconut), copra meal, coconut oil, and coconut cream. In the early 1990s taro (a tropical Asian plant) was an important export but was destroyed by disease in 1993 and is only starting to re-emerge as an export. In the late 1990s the development of a commercial fishing operation illustrated the competitive advantage Samoa has in this industry, with its proximity to fish canning facilities in American Samoa. Timber has been a modest source of export income in the past, but is not likely to be significant for 25 years when recently planted trees mature.

Manufacturing in Samoa is mainly to supply the domestic market, although there have been some initiatives to foster export manufacturing using tax breaks. Tourism grew steadily through the 1990s and has considerable potential, especially if tourism infrastructure is developed.

Besides tourism, remittances and international aid offset Samoa's annual trade imbalance. Remittances from relatives overseas are an important source of income for many families in Samoa and a significant source of foreign exchange for the country. The largest source of remittance income, comes from the Samoan population living in New Zealand. Another substantial amount comes Samoan communities in Hawaii and California. International aid contributes about one-quarter of gross domestic product (GDP) and supports many of the govern-ment's development projects. The largest aid donors are Japan, Australia, and New Zealand followed by multilateral aid agencies such as the Asian Development Bank.

POLITICS, GOVERNMENT, AND TAXATION

Traditionally, political power in Samoa was held by matai (chiefs), whose positions were generally inherited, although individuals with charisma and power can earn positions. The matai system survives to the present day, but was changed during the colonial and post-colonial periods. Political turbulence characterized the 19th century in Samoa, during which matai-lead governments formed and reformed, often with support from traders, missionaries, and other foreigners. In 1899 the colonial powers of Germany, Great Britain, and the United States resolved this impasse for their own purposes by signing a treaty granting Germany control of Western Samoa and the United States control of Eastern (American) Samoa. Western Samoa, however, was occupied by New Zealand during World War I and was a colony of that country until it gained independence in 1962. In the 1920s the Mau movement, advocating non-payment of tax and whose ultimate goal was independence, was formed. The movement was suppressed by New Zealander troops in the late 1920s but it remains a symbol of nationalism to the present day.

Samoa has a parliamentary system with the Paramount Chief of Samoa as the ceremonial head of state. Until 1991, members of Parliament were elected by the matai, but in that year universal suffrage for all citizens 21 years and over was introduced. Tradition is still maintained, however, since only matai can be elected to 1 of the 49 parliamentary seats. There are 2 main parties, the Human Rights Protection Party and the Samoa National Development Party, but these parties tend to revolve around personalities more than political positions that allow them to be labeled left, center, or right.

Until recently the main domestic sources of government revenue were trade tariffs and, to a lesser extent, income taxes . In 1994, a value added goods and services tax (VAGST) was introduced despite popular opposition. The VAGST of 10 percent is imposed on most items of consumption including imports, with exceptions including unprocessed local primary production, financial services, and hospital and educational services. Since this tax's creation, most individuals do not have to pay income tax and trade tariffs have been reduced.

INFRASTRUCTURE, POWER, AND COMMUNICATIONS

The 2 main islands of Upolu and Savai'i are quite well serviced by 790 kilometers (491 miles) of roads, of which about 40 percent are paved. Nearly all villages can be accessed by road, and bus services reach most parts of the country. The 2 islands are linked by passenger and car ferries with frequent sailings. The size of the country and the existence of road and ferry services mean that internal air travel is relatively rare. The sole international airport, Faleolo Airport, on the northwest coast of Upolu, provides international air passage to New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga, American Samoa, Australia, and Honolulu, Hawaii. Polynesian Airlines, owned by the Samoan government, and Samoa Air are 2 of the main regional carriers. Samoa also has 2 unpaved airports on Savai'i for domestic travel.

While about 62 percent of Samoa's electricity is generated with the use of imported fuel, the remainder is generated by a local hydroelectric station. Telephone services extend to most parts of the country, although only about 1 in 4 households has a telephone and public telephones are rare. International telephone service is usually good. In 2000 there was at least 1 Internet service provider.

Communications
CountryTelephonesTelephones, Mobile/Cellular aRadio Stations aRadios aTV Stations aTelevisions aInternet Service Providers cInternet Users c
Samoa8,0001,545 (1998)AM 1; FM 3; shortwave 0178,000611,0002500
United States194 M69.209 M (1998)AM 4,762; FM 5,542; shortwave 18575 M1,500219 M7,800148 M
Philippines1.9 M1.959 M (1998)AM 366; FM 290; shortwave 3 (1999)11.5 M313.7 M33500,000
Solomon Islands8,000658AM 3; FM 0; shortwave 057,00003,00013,000
aData is for 1997 unless otherwise noted.
bData is for 1998 unless otherwise noted.
cData is for 2000 unless otherwise noted.
SOURCE: CIA World Factbook 2001 [Online].

ECONOMIC SECTORS

Calculating the size of different economic sectors is very difficult for Samoa's economy because a large proportion of the population works in the informal subsistence sector. In Samoa, there has been a relative decline in subsistence activities during the 1990s dropping as a percentage of GDP from 29.7 percent in 1992 to 17.7 percent in 1998, according to the Asian Development Bank. Over the same period, agriculture declined slightly from 21.2 percent to 19.3 percent of GDP. On the other hand, industry increased considerably from 15.8 to 23.7 percent as did services from 32 to 38.6 percent of GDP. In the labor force data, much of the agricultural employment is in unpaid village workeither informal or subsistenceso that it is difficult to compare these data with those from other countries. Official counts, however, show about 23,000 workers in the formal sector out of a total labor force of 42,494.

AGRICULTURE

About two-thirds of all households in Samoa depend on a mixture of subsistence agriculture and cash cropping . The non-monetary agricultural production of the country was estimated to comprise 17.7 percent of GDP in 1998, falling from 29.7 percent in 1992. This was partly a result of the growth of other parts of the economy, rather than a contraction of the subsistence economy. In 1998 non-subsistence agriculture and fishing made up 19.3 percent of GDP. Agriculture contributed about 30 percent of all export revenue in 1999. The main export products, in order of importance in the late 1990s were copra (dried coconut flesh), coconut oil, copra meal, coconut cream, and kava (a mildly narcotic drink traditional to the South Pacific). The importance of coconut products is obvious, but unlike many Pacific countries that only export copra, Samoa has added value to these products. For example, coconut cream canned in Samoa is worth several times its equivalent in copra. The vulnerability of dependence on a crop such as coconuts was illustrated when cyclones in 1990 and 1991 caused considerable damage to tree crops.

During the 1980s, Samoa identified an international niche market for taro, a traditional prestige root crop. The taro exported from Samoa was sold mostly to Samoan and other Pacific communities and, in 1992, made up more than one-half of all agricultural exports by value, surpassing the cyclone-depleted coconut products. In 1993, taro blight destroyed the whole crop, however, and by the late 1990s taro production was only beginning to recover.

In recent years, the government and international aid donors have been promoting agricultural diversification. Although there have been small amounts of other food crops exported (such as bananas), the only crop that has generated significant export income is kava, which has recently gained an international reputation as a soothing and therapeutic substance. In 1998, kava exports were valued at WST5.5 million (US$1.8 million), a sum similar to the copra exports in that year. Other agricultural products currently being promoted include cattle and tropical fruits.

FISHING.

The Asian Development Bank estimated that 30 to 40 percent of all households in Samoa fish for their own consumption and that 12 percent of households rely on fishing as their primary source of income. Many subsistence fishers may also sell some of their catch. Larger commercial fishing endeavors have developed, though, mainly resulting from the introduction of long-line tuna boats. Thus, fishing's contribution to GDP rose from 4 percent in 1995 to 8 percent in 1999, with further expansion expected. Most of the catch is processed in the canneries of American Samoa, giving Samoa a competitive advantage because of the proximity of these facilities and because they allow access to the American market.

FORESTRY.

In the past, there was relatively large-scale logging on the island of Savai'i, but logging has become small-scale and limited mostly to customary (village owned) land. Exports of timber are small as most production is for the local market. Large-scale establishment of forest plantations began in the 1970s, but most of these forests were destroyed by the cyclones of 1990 and 1991. Recent planting of high-value hardwood species such as mahogany will take about 25 years to mature, so there are few prospects of timber re-establishing itself as an important export before then.

INDUSTRY

Of the formal labor force, about 17 percent worked in industry, with about half of these working in construction and just over one-quarter in manufacturing in 1991. More recent data show that all industrial sectors together accounted for 23.7 percent of GDP in 1998. This percentage has grown through the 1990s.

MANUFACTURING.

Much of the manufacturing sector, mostly located in Apia, serves the purpose of import substitution . Thus, the most important industries include food processing, beer production, furniture, and construction materials. There are, however, some export-oriented industries. Notable is the production of canned coconut cream, mainly for export. Beer and cigarette factories export some of their product. A small industries center has been established at Vaitele, near Apia. The most uncommon of the new endeavors, in a Pacific sense, is the Yazaki automobile electrical wiring assembly plant, which was transferred from Melbourne in 1991. This plant exports about US$50 million in automotive parts to Australia each year, however, the benefit to Samoa may be low since wages are low and the company pays no taxes or duties .

SERVICES

Services accounted for 51 percent of all formal sector employment in 1991, and this proportion has probably risen since then. In 1998 all services accounted for 38.6 percent of GDP, up from 32 percent in 1992. The largest subsector of employment was social and personal services, which accounted for just over half of all employment in the services sector, with many of these being government employees.

TOURISM.

Through the 1990s there has been a steady increase in the number of visitors to Samoa, from just over 48,000 in 1990 to about 78,000 in 1998. Only about one-third of these can be considered as tourists, however, since another third are Samoan expatriates visiting friends and relatives while another third are traveling on business. Still, tourism contributed an estimated 15.4 percent of GDP in 1997.

Samoa has considerable potential as a tourist destination. It has a strong and visible culture and many Samoans consider their country Hawai'iki (the original home of all Polynesians). On this basis the Samoa Visitors Bureau presents Samoa as "The Cradle of Polynesia" in its international promotions. The visibility of Samoan cultureepitomized by traditional open-sided housesthe many beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and other features of a "tropical paradise" and the scale and architectural variety of Samoan churches exceed normal tourist expectations of a country its size. There are several international standard hotels, mostly in Apia and elsewhere on Upolu. Smaller hotels and guesthouses have seen growing competition from village-based tourist operations. Most local accommodations include fales (leaf houses), usually on a beach, with locally cooked food on offer. These are relatively low impact ventures, though, in which most of the profits stay in the village.

FINANCIAL SERVICES.

Following the example of Vanuatu and Cook Islands, Samoa established an offshore banking center in 1988. About 500 banks and other companies have established themselves in Samoa, although information is not available to identify the costs and benefits of this operation to the Samoan economy. Domestic financial services are provided by Bank of Samoa (owned by ANZ Bank), Pacific Commercial Bank (a joint venture between Bank of Hawaii and Westpac) and National Bank.

RETAIL.

The retail sector is similar to that in other Pacific countries of similar size. Apia has a number of medium-sized shops and small supermarkets that sell food imported from New Zealand and manufactures from Asia as well as local produce. Elsewhere in the country, shops stock mainly basic items necessary for everyday life. The largest market is in Apia, selling fruit, vegetables, fish, basic manufactured goods, and handicrafts. Smaller markets are found in other towns where the range of products is related to the size of the local population.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

The difference between the level of Samoa's exports and imports is considerable. In the years shown in the table, the trade imbalance ranges from just over 3 to 1 in 1985 to more than 10 to 1 in 1995, and the general trend is an increasing imbalance. The value of exports has not kept pace with the expansion of the economy, which requires increased imports. Also, 2 cyclones in 1990 and

Trade (expressed in billions of US$): Samoa
ExportsImports
1975.007.037
1980.017.062
1985.016.051
1990.009.080
1995.009.095
1998.015.097
SOURCE: International Monetary Fund. International Financial Statistics Yearbook 1999.

1991 and the taro blight in 1993 had a severe impact on the level of exports in the mid 1990s.

Australia has been the most important destination for exports in recent years, ranging between 50 and 85 percent of all exports between 1995 and 1999. New Zealand is the most important source of imports, but Australia, Japan, Fiji, and the United States are also significant.

The large negative balance of trade is possible because of other international transfers. Tourism contributes some international income. At the household level the most important source of income is remittances from relatives living overseas, particularly in New Zealand, the United States, and Australia. At the government level, international aid helps to counterbalance the trade deficit .

MONEY

The Samoan tala has depreciated against the U.S. dollar since 1982. This may be partly attributed to the vulnerable export base of the country, but a range of other factors in the international economy are less easy to identify. In the late 1990s a strong U.S. dollar devalued most currencies of the Pacific region that most influence the Samoan tala, including the New Zealand and Australian dollars.

POVERTY AND WEALTH

A total of 174 countries are ranked in the United Nations Development Program 's (UNDP) Human Development Report 2000 according to the Human Development Indicator (HDI), which measures a country's state of well-being using income, education, and health measures. The HDI rank for Samoa was 95 which puts it in the middle range of countries, similar to other countries in Polynesia but higher than Melanesian countries. GDP per capita in 1998 was US$998, about one-thirtieth that of the United States.

There is no adequate information on income distribution in Samoa, but this may be inferred from other

Exchange rates: Samoa
talas per US$1
Jan 20013.3400
20003.2712
19993.0120
19982.9429
19972.5562
19962.4618
SOURCE: CIA World Factbook 2001 [ONLINE].
GDP per Capita (US$)
Country19751980198519901998
SamoaN/A974915931998
United States19,36421,52923,20025,36329,683
Philippines9741,1669671,0641,092
Solomon Islands419583666784753
SOURCE: United Nations. Human Development Report 2000; Trends in human development and per capita income.

information. Another indicator developed by the UNDP is the Human Poverty Index (HPI). It measures conditions for those worst off in a country, such as their educational level, health status, access to health services, access to safe water, and incidence of malnutrition in children. Of 15 Pacific countries measured by the HPI, Samoa falls in the middle, meaning that the people worst off in Samoa are comparatively better off than the worst off in most Melanesian countries. On indicators of education, Samoa boasts 96 percent literacy and a high participation rate in education. School attendance is mandatory up to age 14 and there are no central government fees, although local communities may levy them to cover maintenance of buildings.

In health, the indicators are generally high, with universal access to health services and with most households having access to safe water. Health service is free and available through clinics as well as at 5 public hospitals. There is not a system of universal pensions, but those who have worked in formal employment are likely to have provided for a pension through the National Provident Fund. Most other older people depend on their nuclear or extended families, in Samoa and overseas. Since 1999, migrants returning from working in New Zealand are able to bring their New Zealand pensions with them, and this is expected to be an increasing source of income in Samoa as the number of these migrants increases.

WORKING CONDITIONS

There is a minimum wage in the private sector of WST1.40 per hour, which has been readjusted to the cost of living over the last 20 years. This rate makes living in town problematic, although many households will have some people working for wages as well as others undertaking subsistence production. The minimum wage is about 10 percent of the salary that a new senior manager might get in the private sector.

Men make up an estimated 78 percent of the formal workforce. In almost all sectors they predominate. In public service men comprise only 47 percent of the full-time salaried workers but two-thirds of the temporary government workers. The unemployment rate of 13 percent is quite high, but it would be even higher if all those in the rural sector who wanted paid employment were counted. There is no unemployment benefit. Unionization is relatively strong with the Teacher's Association being formed in the 1950s and the Western Samoa Public Service Association starting in 1969. In the private sector, unions have been a recent development with the formation of the Western Samoa National Union of Workers in 1994.

COUNTRY HISTORY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1721. The first European "explorer" visits Samoa. Metal tools and weapons are introduced.

1830s-1890s. A series of governments under Samoan chieftainship and foreign support come and go. German coconut plantations are founded.

1899. Treaties are signed between Britain, Germany, and the United States giving Western Samoa to Germany and American (Eastern) Samoa to the United States.

1914. New Zealand takes control of Western Samoa during World War I.

1920s. The nonviolent Mau movement, formed to oppose taxes and support independence, is suppressed by force; 11 Samoans, including a matai, are killed.

1962. Western Samoa becomes the first independent nation in the Pacific Islands.

1982. Samoa experiences a constitutional crisis with 3 governments in 1 year. Tension continues between parliamentary and traditional matai systems.

1991. Universal voting franchise is introduced for all citizens over age 21; previously only matai could vote.

1997. The country's name changes from Western Samoa to Samoa.

FUTURE TRENDS

During the 1990s Samoa's economy experienced several blows related to natural disaster, but at the turn of the century, there is optimism about future development. The fishing industry has grown rapidly in recent years with further potential apparent. Tourism has grown slowly but steadily, and to some extent the degree to which this expands may depend not only on the government's promotion of it but also on the public's attitude to the desirable scale of the industry. The agricultural sector is likely to continue to be affected by weather, disease, and fluctuating world prices, but probably will continue as an important source of export income, even if the product mix changes. For many years there have been predictions that migrant remittances will eventually slow down as expatriates become more settled in their countries of residence, but so far this does not seem be the case. Though international aid payments are being reduced in some cases, most small Pacific countriessuch as Samoahave managed to attract high per capita levels of aid, and this ought to continue into the foreseeable future.

DEPENDENCIES

Samoa has no territories or colonies.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Economist Intelligence Unit. Country Profile: Samoa. London: Economist Intelligence Unit, 2001.

"Key Indicators for Developing Asian and Pacific Countries." Asian Development Bank. <http://www.adb.org/Samoa>. Accessed February 2001

"Samoa 2000: Building on Recent Reforms." Asian Development Bank. Manila: ADB, 2000.

Lal, Brij V., and Kate Fortune. The Pacific Islands: An Encyclopedia. Honolulu: University of Hawai'i Press, 2000.

U.S. Central Intelligence Agency. World Factbook 2001. <http:// www.odci.gov/cia/publications/factbook/index.html>. Accessed August 2001.

United Nations Development Programme. Pacific Human Development Report 1999: Creating Opportunities. Suva: UNDP, 1999.

Vaai, Kolone. "Recent Economic Development in WesternSamoa." Pacific Economic Bulletin. Vol. 11, No. 2, 1996.

Wardlow Friesen

CAPITAL:

Apia.

MONETARY UNIT:

Tala (WST). One tala equals 100 sene. Coins are 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 sene and 1 tala. Notes are 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 talas.

CHIEF EXPORTS:

Copra, coconut oil, coconut cream, taro, fish, and kava.

CHIEF IMPORTS:

Food, machines and transport equipment, manufactures, and fuels.

GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT:

US$571 million (purchasing power parity, 2000 est.).

BALANCE OF TRADE:

Exports: US$17 million (f.o.b., 2000). Imports: US$90 million (f.o.b., 2000).

Samoa

views updated May 29 2018

Samoa

PROFILE
GEOGRAPHY AND PEOPLE
HISTORY
GOVERNMENT
POLITICAL CONDITIONS
ECONOMY
FOREIGN RELATIONS AND U.S.-SAMOAN RELATIONS
TRAVEL

Compiled from the October 2007 Background Note and supplemented with additional information from the State Department and the editors of this volume. See the introduction to this set for explanatory notes.

Official Name:

Independent State of Samoa

PROFILE

Geography

Area: 2,934 sq. km. (1,133 sq. mi.) in two main islands plus seven smaller ones.

Cities: Capital (pop. 34,000)—Apia.

Terrain: Mountainous with narrow coastal plain.

Climate: Tropical.

People

Nationality: Noun and adjective—Samoan.

Population: (November 2006) 179,186. Age structure (2001)— 40.7% under 15; 4.5% over 65.

Growth rate: 1.4% (mainly due to emigration).

Ethnic groups: Samoan 92.6%, Euronesian (mixed European and Polynesian) 7%, European 0.4%.

Religions: Christian 98.9%.

Languages: Samoan, English.

Education: Literacy—99.7%.

Health: Life expectancy—male 71.8 yrs.; female 73.8 yrs. Infant mortality rate—29.72/1000.

Work force: Agriculture—64%; services—30%.

Government

Type: Mix of parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy. Independence (from New Zealand-administered UN trusteeship) January 1, 1962.

Constitution: January 1, 1962.

Government branches: Executive—head of state (5-year term; elected by parliament), prime minister (head of government), cabinet. Legislative—unicameral parliament (Fono). Judicial—Court of Appeal, Supreme Court, and supporting hierarchy.

Political parties: Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP), Samoa Democratic United Party (SDUP), and Samoa Party (SP).

Economy

GDP: (2005) $461.28 million.

GDP per capita: (2005, nominal) $2,556.

GDP composition by sector: Services 39%, industry 48%, agriculture 13%.

Industry: Types—tourism, coconuts, small scale manufacturing, fishing.

Trade: Exports—$11.8 million: fish, coconut products, nonu fruit products, processing of automotive components. Export markets—New Zealand, Australia, U.S. (includes American Samoa). Imports—$219.6 million: food and beverages, industrial supplies. Import sources—New Zealand, Hong Kong, U.S. ($19.99 million), Australia, Japan, Fiji.

External debt: $184.64 million (92.6% is owed to multilateral lenders).

Currency: Tala (or Samoan dollar).

GEOGRAPHY AND PEOPLE

Samoa consists of the two large islands of Upolu and Savai'i and seven small islets located about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand in the Polynesian region of the South Pacific. The main island of Upolu is home to nearly three-quarters of Samoa' population and its capital city of Apia. The climate is tropical, with a rainy season from November to April. The Fa'a Samoa, or traditional Samoan way, remains a strong force in Samoan life and politics. Despite centuries of European influence, Samoa maintains its historical customs, social systems, and language, which is believed to be the oldest form of Polynesian speech still in existence. Only the Maoris of New Zealand outnumber the Samoans among Polynesian groups.

HISTORY

Migrants from Southeast Asia arrived in the Samoan islands more than 2,000 years ago and from there settled the rest of Polynesia further to the east. Contact with Europeans began in the early 1700s but did not intensify until the arrival of English missionaries and traders in the 1830s. At the turn of the 20th century, the Samoan islands were split into two sections. The eastern islands became territories of the United States in 1904 and today are known as American Samoa. The western islands became known as Western Samoa (now the Independent State of Samoa), passing from German control to New Zealand in 1914. New Zealand administered Western Samoa under the auspices of the League of Nations and then as a UN trusteeship until independence in 1962. Western Samoa was the first Pacific Island country to gain its independence. In July 1997 the Constitution was amended to change the country's name from Western Samoa to Samoa (officially the “Independent State of Samoa”). Western Samoa had been known simply as Samoa in the United Nations since joining the organization in 1976. The neighboring U.S. territory of American Samoa protested the move, feeling that the change diminished its own Samoan identity. American Samoans still use the terms Western Samoa and Western Samoans.

GOVERNMENT

The 1960 Constitution, which formally came into force with independence, is based on the British Westminster parliamentary system, modified to take account of Samoan customs. Malietoa Tanumafili held the post of head of state for 45 years until his death in May 2007. His successor, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, was selected by the Fono for a 5-year term.

The unicameral legislature (Fono) contains 49 members serving 5-year terms. Forty-seven are elected from territorial districts by ethnic Samoans districts; the other two are chosen by non-Samoans on separate electoral rolls. Universal suffrage was extended in 1990, but only chiefs (matai) may stand for election to the Samoan seats. The voting age is 21 years and over. There are more than 30,000 matais in the country, about 8% of whom are women.

The prime minister is chosen by a majority in the Fono and is appointed by the head of state to form a government. The 12 cabinet ministers are appointed by the head of state on the advice of the prime minister, and subject to the continuing confidence of the Fono.

The judicial system is based on English common law and local customs. The Supreme Court is the court of highest jurisdiction. Its chief justice is appointed by the head of state upon the recommendation of the prime minister.

Principal Government Officials

Last Updated: 2/1/2008

Head of State: Malietoa, Tanumafili II

Prime Minister: Tuila'epa, Sailele Malielegaoi

Deputy Prime Minister: Misa, Telefoni Retzlaff

Min. of Agriculture: Tuisugaletaua, Sofara Aveau

Min. of Commerce, Industry, & Labor: Hans, Joachim

Min. of Communication & Information Technology: Palusalue, Faapo

Min. of Education, Sports, & Culture: Fiame, Naomi Mata'afa

Min. of Foreign Affairs: Tuila'epa, Sailele Malielegaoi

Min. of Health: Mulitalo, Siafausa Vui

Min. of Justice & Courts Admin.

Min. of Natural Resources & Environment: Tagaloa, Sale Tagaloa

Min. of Police: Ulu, Vaomalo Kini

Min. of Revenue: Gaina, Tino

Min. of Women, Community, & Social Development: Tuala, Ainiu Iusitino

Min. of Works, Transport, & Infrastructure: Faumuina, Liuga

Attorney General: Heather, Brenda

Governor, Central Bank: Scanlan, Papali'i Tommy

Ambassador to the US: Elisaia, Aliioaiga Feturi

Permanent Representative to the UN, New York: Elisaia, Aliioaiga Feturi

Samoa maintains its diplomatic representation in the United States at 800 2nd Avenue, Suite 400D, New York, NY 10017; tel: 212-599-6196.

POLITICAL CONDITIONS

The Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) has held majority in the Fono for the past six consecutive 5-year terms. HRPP leader Tofilau Eti Ale-sana served as prime minister for nearly all of the period between 1982 and 1998, when he resigned due to health problems. Tofilau Eti Alesana was replaced by his deputy Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi. Parliamentary elections are held every 5 years, and the last was held in March 2006. The Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP), led by Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, won 35 of the 49 seats. After the elections, the Samoa Democratic United Party (SDUP) was the opposition party but since then has suffered defections and divisions that have reduced it below the eight members required by parliamentary orders to constitute an official parliamentary party. Its remaining adherents have thus officially become independents, and as of October 2007 there was no recognized opposition party. The Supreme Court ordered by-elections, due to bribery and death of a member of parliament and that saw HRPP gain two extra seats to 37 of the 49 seats. Apart from HRPP and SDUP, there are several political parties but they are not represented in parliament.

ECONOMY

The Samoan economy is dependent on agricultural exports, tourism, and capital flows from abroad. The effects of three natural disasters in the early 1990s were overcome by the middle of the decade, but economic growth cooled again with the regional economic downturn. Long-run development depends upon upgrading the tourist infrastructure, attracting foreign investment, and further diversification of the economy.

Two major cyclones hit Samoa at the beginning of the 1990s. Cyclone Ofa left an estimated 10,000 islanders homeless in February 1990; Cyclone Val caused 13 deaths and hundreds of millions of dollars in damage in December 1991. As a result, GDP declined by nearly 50% from 1989 to 1991. These experiences and Samoa's position as a low-lying island state punctuate its concern about global climate change.

Further economic problems occurred in 1994 with an outbreak of taro leaf blight and the near collapse of the national airline Polynesian Airlines. Taro, a root crop, traditionally was Samoa's largest export, generating more than half of all export revenue in 1993. But a fungal blight decimated the plants, and in each year since 1994 taro exports have accounted for less than 1% of export revenue. Polynesian Airlines reached a financial crisis in 1994, which disrupted the tourist industry and eventually required a government bailout. It has since become a profit-making concern.

The government responded to these shocks with a major program of road building and post-cyclone infrastructure repair. Economic reforms were stepped up, including the liberalization of exchange controls. GDP growth rebounded to over 6% in both 1995 and 1996 before slowing again at the end of the decade.

The service sector accounts for more than half of GDP and employs approximately 30% of the labor force. Tourism is the largest-single activity, more than doubling in visitor numbers and revenue over the last decade. More than 101,000 visitors arrived in Samoa in 2005, contributing over $82.95 million to the local economy. One-third were from American Samoa, 28% from New Zealand, and 11% from the United States. Arrivals increased in 2000, as visitors to the South Pacific avoided the political strife in Fiji by traveling to Samoa instead.

The primary sector (agriculture, forestry, and fishing) employs nearly two-thirds of the labor force and pro-

duces 13% of GDP. Important products include coconuts and fish. Industry accounts for almost half of GDP while employing less than 6% of the work force. The largest industrial venture is Yazaki Samoa, a Japanese-owned company processing automotive components for export to Australia under a concessional market-access arrangement. The Yazaki plant employs more than 2,000 workers and makes up over 20% of the manufacturing sector's total output. Net receipts amount to between $1.5 million and $3.03 million annually, although shipments from Yazaki are counted as services (export processing) and therefore do not officially appear as merchandise exports.

New Zealand is Samoa's principal trading partner, typically providing between 35% and 40% of imports and purchasing 45%-50% of exports. The increasing number of Asian-owned businesses in Samoa has led the increasing trade with Hong Kong and Japan. Australia, American Samoa, the U.S., and Fiji also are important trading partners. Samoa's principal exports are coconut products, nonu fruit, and fish. Its main imports are food and beverages, industrial supplies, and fuels. The collapse of taro exports in 1994 has had the unintended effect of modestly diversifying Samoa's export products and markets. Prior to the taro leaf blight, Samoa's exports consisted of taro ($1.1 million), coconut cream ($540,000), and “other” ($350,000). Ninety percent of exports went to the Pacific region, and only 1% went to Europe. Forced to look for alternatives to taro, Samoa's exporters have dramatically increased the production of copra, coconut oil, and fish. These three products, which combined to produce export revenue of less than $100,000 in 1993, now account for over $6.7 million. There also has been a relative shift from Pacific markets to European ones, which now receive nearly 15% of Samoa's exports. Samoa's exports are still concentrated in fish ($5.8 million), nonu fruit products ($3.27 million), and coconut products ($0.9 million worth of copra, copra meal, coconut oil, and coconut cream), but are at least somewhat more diverse than before.

Samoa annually receives important financial assistance from abroad. The more than 100,000 Samoans who live overseas provide two sources of revenue. Their direct remittances have amounted to $90 million per year recently (about 23% of GDP), and they account for more than half of all tourist visits. In addition to the expatriate community, Samoa also receives more than $28 million annually in official bilateral development assistance from sources led by China, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. These three sources of revenue—tourism, private transfers, and official transfers—allow Samoa to cover its persistently large trade deficit.

FOREIGN RELATIONS AND U.S.-SAMOAN RELATIONS

The Samoan Government is generally conservative and pro-Western, with a strong interest in regional political and economic issues. At independence in 1962, Samoa signed a Treaty of Friendship with New Zealand. This treaty confirms the special relationship between the two countries and provides a framework for their interaction. Under the terms of the treaty, Samoa can request that New Zealand act as a channel of communication to governments and international organizations outside the immediate area of the Pacific islands. Samoa also can request defense assistance, which New Zealand is required to consider (Samoa does not maintain a formal military). Overall Samoa has strong links with New Zealand, where many Samoans now live and many others were educated.

The Samoan Government was an outspoken critic of the French decision to resume nuclear weapons testing in the South Pacific in 1995. Large-scale street demonstrations were held in Apia against the French tests, which concluded in 1996. The Samoan Government also banned visits to Samoa by French warships and aircraft for several years. This ban has now been lifted, and a French warship visited Apia in July 2006. The Government of Samoa has a strong relationship with the Government of the People's Republic of China (P.R.C). The P.R.C. has provided substantial assistance to Samoa, including an economic grant agreement for new development projects valued at $2.6 million concluded in April 2007. Assistance from the P.R.C. has been especially focused on construction projects, including the main government building as well as performance venues for the South Pacific Games, which Samoa hosted in August/September 2007. The P.R.C started construction in September 2007 of two complexes for the Samoan parliament and Justice Department, with another multi-million dollar ministry building in the pipeline.

Since 1967, the United States has supported a substantial Peace Corps program in Samoa. Over 1,700 Peace Corps Volunteers have served in Samoa over that time, with 51 Volunteers currently in-country. Peace Corps programs emphasize village-based development and capacity building. Other forms of U.S. assistance to Samoa are limited. The U.S. Embassy, staffed by a single officer, is the smallest Embassy in Samoa and one of the few one-officer U.S. Embassies in the world.

Samoa participated in a first round of negotiations with its Pacific Island neighbors for a regional trade agreement in August 2000. Samoa is a member of the United Nations and strong advocate of the Pacific Commission and Pacific Islands Forum.

Principal U.S. Embassy Officials

Last Updated: 2/19/2008

APIA (E) U.S. Embassy, 5th Floor, ACB House, Matafele, Apia, Samoa, APO/FPO American Embassy, PSC 467 BOX 1, APO, AP 96531-1034, (685) 21-631, Fax (685) 22-030, Work-week: Monday to Friday, 0815-1700, Website: http://samoa.usembassy.gov.

CA:Nicholas Greanias (Auckland)
DCM/CHG:George W. Colvin Jr.
MGT:Judith H. Semilota (Wellington)
AMB:William P. McCormick (Resident Wellington)
PAO:Roy Glover (Wellington)
GSO:Andrea Gastaldo (Wellington)
RSO:James Doherty
DAO:CAPT Rick Martinez (Wellington)
FMO:Facilities: Preston Hatchell (Wellington)
ICASS:Chair Non-Icass Post
ISSO:See Dcm/Charge
State ICASS:Non-Icass Post

TRAVEL

Consular Information Sheet

January 23, 2008

Country Description: Samoa consists of the two large islands of Upolu and Savai'i and seven small islets. The country has a stable parliamentary democracy with a developing economy. Tourist facilities are accessible by bus, taxi and car and are within walking distance of access roads. Infrastructure is adequate in Apia, the capital, but it is limited in other areas. Nearly all Internet connections use a relatively slow dial-up method. Samoa has two digital telephone service providers, and visitors can easily purchase prepaid phones that cover virtually the entire country. The Samoa Tourism Authority, at http://www.visitsamoa.ws/, provides a wide range of information of interest to travelers.

Entry Requirements: U.S. nationals who are not U.S. citizens, and who are resident in American Samoa, must obtain a visitor permit prior to all travel to Samoa. U.S. nationals have not been permitted to travel to Samoa on certificates of identity since May 2005 except on a case by case basis. (U.S. law distinguishes between individuals who are citizens and those who are nationals. The U.S. passport bio-page shows one's status as either a citizen or a non-citizen national.) As of March 22, 2006, visitor permits to travel to Samoa can be applied for at the new Samoa Consulate General office in Pago Pago, American Samoa. A valid passport and an onward/return ticket are required for all Americans (both citizens and nationals) to travel to Samoa. Visitor permits are not required for U.S. citizens (only for U.S. nationals) seeking to stay in Samoa for up to 60 days. All visitors are required to pay a departure tax of 40 Tala (approximately 17.50 USD) upon leaving the country. Further information about entry requirements and the departure tax may be obtained from the Samoa Mission to the United Nations at 800-2nd Avenue, Suite 400J, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 599-6196, fax (212) 599-0797.

Safety and Security: In Apia and many villages, stray dogs wander the streets. Visitors should not approach or feed them; they can become aggressive in the presence of food or if they feel threatened.

Although there have been no major accidents involving the ferry service linking Upolu and Savai'i, vessels are sometimes overloaded. One of the ferries, a multi-deck automobile ferry, sometimes transports passengers on its automobile deck. Americans who choose to use this ferry are encouraged not to remain in the automobile deck during the crossing and to ride only in the passenger compartment in order to avoid injury from shifting vehicles.

Samoa has numerous “blowholes” (lava tubes open to the sea where wave action produces, often spectacular, geysers). These blowholes are popular tourist attractions. The footing around the mouths of most blowholes is very slippery. To avoid being swept in, visitors should not approach too closely and should never stand between the opening of the blowhole and the sea.

Snorkeling and diving in ocean lagoons is a popular activity for many visitors to Samoa. Tide changes can produce powerful currents in these lagoons. Visitors are encouraged to consult local residents and tour operators about hazards and conditions at a particular location before venturing into the water.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs' web site at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts, as well as the Worldwide Caution, can be found. Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada, or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444.

Crime: Overall, Samoa is considered a low threat environment. Nevertheless, visitors should remain aware of their surroundings, lock their doors at night, and not leave their belong-iings unattended. Incidents of petty theft/robberies of personal effects are common. Some such incidents have involved residential break-ins. While rare, violent assaults, including sexual assaults have occurred in Samoa.

No specific groups have been targeted, nor have there been any racially motivated or hate crimes against Americans. Police responsiveness in Apia is generally good. Because of the very limited police presence elsewhere in Samoa (where order is maintained primarily by local village authorities), police responsiveness elsewhere is problematic.

Information for Victims of Crime: The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed

Medical Facilities and Health Information: Health care facilities in Samoa are adequate for routine medical treatment, but are limited in range and availability; complex illnesses and life-threatening emergencies generally need to be treated elsewhere. Dental facilities do not meet U.S. standards, but good dental treatment and some emergency care can be obtained nearby at the LBJ Tropical Medical Center in Pago Pago, American Samoa. The national hospital and a small private hospital are located in Apia, and there are several small district hospitals on Savai'i and in outlying areas of Upolu. There are no hyperbaric chambers on any of the islands for the treatment of scuba diving related injuries. Serious cases of decompression sickness are evacuated to the nearest treatment center in Suva, Fiji, or Auckland, New Zealand.

Serious medical conditions and treatments that require hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost thousands of dollars. Travelers should carry emergency evacuation insurance. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. There is no reported incidence of malaria or rabies in Samoa. Occasional outbreaks of typhoid and non-hemorrhagic dengue do occur.

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC's web site at http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel.

For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's (WHO) web site at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith/en.

Medical Insurance: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation.

Traffic Safety and Road Conditions: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Samoa is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Safety of public transportation and rural road conditions in Samoa, are considered fair, while urban road conditions/maintenance is considered good. Taxis in particular are widely available and used by Samoans and visitors alike; buses are slow, generally crowded and uncomfortable, and rarely utilized by visitors. Rental cars can also be obtained. No roadside assistance is available. Most major roads are tar-sealed, but secondary roads are predominantly dirt and gravel and may be overgrown with vegetation. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for travel on these roads. Travelers should be aware that vehicle safety regulations are rarely enforced and traffic violations occur routinely. Roads outside Apia are often narrow, winding, relatively steep, with narrow or no shoulders, and poorly lighted. Pedestrians as well as vehicles and livestock regularly travel these roads. Due to poor and deteriorating road conditions, night driving on unlit rural roads can be dangerous and should be avoided if possible. Roads in Samoa often traverse small streams. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution when fording these streams, which can become swollen and dangerous with little warning. Vehicles should never enter a stream if the roadbed is not visible or if the water's depth exceeds the vehicle's clearance.

Speed limits in Samoa are 25 miles per hour in the Apia area and 35 miles per hour outside Apia, with certain exceptions. At unmarked intersections, traffic on the left has the right of way. As in the United States, vehicular traffic moves on the right side of the road; although right-hand-drive vehicles (mainly from New Zealand) do exist in Samoa. Importing right hand drive vehicles to Samoa is currently legally forbidden.

Visit the web site of the country's national tourist office at Samoa Tourism Authority at www.visitsamoa.ws.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government ofSamoa's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Samoa's air carrier operations. For more information, travelers may visit the FAA's web site at http://www.faa.gov.

Special Circumstances: Some overseas treatment centers, known as Behavior Modification Facilities, operate in Samoa. Though these facilities may be operated and staffed by U.S. citizens, the Samoan government is solely responsible for compliance with local safety, health, sanitation and educational laws and regulations, including all licensing requirements of the staff in country. These standards, if any, may not be strictly enforced or meet the standards of similar facilities in the U.S. Parents should be aware that U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals 14 years of age and older have a right to apply for a passport and to request repatriation assistance from the U.S. government, both without parental consent.

Any U.S. citizen or non-citizen enrollee has the right to contact a representative from the U.S. Embassy. For further information, consult the Department of State's Fact Sheet on Behavior Modification Facilities, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page. Parents may also contact the U.S. Embassy in Apia or the country officer in the Office of American Citizens Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs at 202-647-5226.

Financial Transactions: Although some businesses (especially those in Apia or those frequented by tourists) do accept credit cards, many (including gas stations) do not. Major credit cards (Visa, Master Card, and American Express) are accepted at major hotels and some restaurants and stores. Samoan currency can be obtained from ATMs, which are located in Faleolo Airport and in many locations in Apia. For more information on ATM locations and banking services see ANZ web site at http://www.anz.com/samoa/over-view.asp and WESTPAC web site at http://www.westpac.com.

Disaster Preparedness: Samoa is located in an area of high seismic activity. Although the probability that a major earthquake would occur during an individual trip is remote, earthquakes can and will continue to happen. Major cyclones have occurred in the past and are always a concern. Strong winds and very heavy rains are common, especially during the rainy season from November to April.

During this period, Samoa receives most of its annual average of over 130 inches of rain. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) web site at http://www.fema.gov.

Customs Regulations: Samoa customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Samoa of items such as firearms, fruits, pets and other animals, and drugs. It is advisable to contact the Samoan Mission to the United Nations at 800 2nd Avenue, Suite 400J, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 599-6196 for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Criminal Penalties: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Samoa's laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Samoa are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in the United States.

Children's Issues: Samoa is not a member of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, see the Office of Children's Issues website at http://travel.state.gov/family.

Registration and Embassy Locations: Americans living or traveling in Samoa are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration web site so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within-Samoa. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located in the Accident Compensation Board (ACB) Building, Fifth Floor, Apia. The Embassy is open to the public from 8:15 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday—Friday. The Embassy's mailing address is U.S. Embassy, P.O. Box 3430, Apia, Samoa 0815. The telephone numbers are (685) 21436/ 21631/22696 and 21452. The fax number is (685) 22030.

An Embassy officer can be reached after hours in an emergency involving the welfare of a U.S. citizen or non-citizen national at (685) 21514 or (685) 777-1776. Visit the U.S. Embassy's web site at http://samoa.usembassy.gov.

International Adoption

February 2007

The information in this section has been edited from a report of the State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Overseas Citizens Services. For more information, please read the International Adoption section of this book and review current reports online at http://travel.state.gov/family.

Disclaimer: The information in this flyer relating to the legal requirements of specific foreign countries is based on public sources and current understanding. Questions involving foreign and U.S. immigration laws and legal interpretation should be addressed respectively to qualified foreign or U.S. legal counsel.

Please Note: Samoan law places restrictions the “overseas adoption” of Samoan children by any person who is not a citizen of Samoa. The American Embassy Apia, Samoa, does not process immigrant visas. This process must be completed through the American Consulate General in Auckland, New Zealand.

Patterns of Immigration: Please review current reports online at http://travel.state.gov/family.

Adoption Authorities: The government offices responsible for adoptions in Samoa are:

Ministry of Justice & Courts
Administration
APIA
Ph: (685) 22-671
Fax: (685) 21-050
Office of the Attorney General
P.O. Box 27, APIA
Ph: (685) 20-295
e-mail: [email protected]

Eligibility Requirements for Adoptive Parents: Prospective adoptive parents must be of the age of majority, which is 21. They may be married or single. Samoan law requires that before any Samoan court grants an adoption of a Samoan child to a citizen of another country, the Samoan Attorney General must certify that the child has no suitable family members in Samoa who are willing and able to care for the child in Samoa and there is no other suitable arrangement available in Samoa.

Residency Requirements: There is no specific requirement that the applicants be residents of Samoa.

Time Frame: The adoption process may take from several months to a year or more.

Adoption Agencies and Attorneys: Samoan law requires that adoption agencies, prior to facilitating adoptions in or from Samoa, must be registered with the Samoan Government and have the prior written authorization from the Attorney General.

The U.S. Embassy in Apia maintains a list of attorneys at: http://wellington.usembassy.gov/pacific_islands.html.

Adoption Fees: Attorneys' fees range from $900-$1200. In addition, prospective adoptive parents should expect to pay approximately $300 for justice and court administration fees.

Adoption Procedures: Adoption applications must be made to the Magistrates Court, which may in turn determine that the Supreme Court should review the case.

As was stated above, certification from the Attorney General that the child has no family or other possibilities within Samoa is required before an adoption decree may be granted.

Required Documents:

  • Original Birth Certificates for adoptive parents
  • Original Marriage Certificate for adoptive parents
  • Proof of Citizenship—Naturalization Certificates/Passports
  • Original birth certificate for adopted child
  • Proof of ownership of home from adoptive parents—proof of adequate space in the home to accommodate an additional household member

Permanent Mission of Samoa to
the United Nations

800 Second Avenue, Suite 400J
New York, New York 10017
Tel: 212 599 6196
Fax: 212 599 0797
Email: [email protected]

U.S. Immigration Requirements:

Prospective adoptive parents are strongly encouraged to consult USCIS publication M-249, The Immigration of Adopted and Prospective Adoptive Children, as well as the Department of State publication, International Adoptions. Please see the International Adoption section of this book for more details and review current reports online at http://travel.state.gov/family.

American Embassy
5th Floor, ACB Building,
Matafele Street
Apia, SAMOA
Phone: (685) 21436
Fax: (685) 22030
Email: [email protected]

Additional Information: Specific questions about adoption in Samoa may be addressed to the U.S. Embassy in Apia, Samoa or the U.S. Consulate General in Auckland, New Zealand. General questions regarding intercountry adoption may be addressed to the Office of Children's Issues, U.S. Department of State, CA/ OCS/CI, SA-29, 4th Floor, 2201 C Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20520-4818, toll-free Tel: 1-888-407-4747.

Samoa

views updated May 08 2018

Samoa

ETHNONYMS: Tagata Sāmoa

Orientation

Identification. There is no generally agreed upon explanation of the meaning of the name "Sāmoa." According to one Samoan version, the name is compounded of "Sā," meaning "tribe, people of," and "Moa," which means "chicken," referring to the "family" of the Tui Manu'a, the highest-ranking titleholder of eastern (American) Samoa. Another proposal suggests that linguistic evidence points to the meaning of Samoa as "people of the ocean or deep sea."

Location. The Samoan Archipelago (about 3,000 square kilometers in land area) lies in western Polynesia in the Central Pacific, from 13° to 15°S to 173°W. The Manu'a group (Ta' ū, Ofu, and Olosega), Tutuila, and 'Aunu'u comprise the Territory of American Samoa; 'Upolu, Manono, Apolima, and Savai'i make up the Independent State of Western Samoa. The islands are of volcanic origin. Beyond the coastal plains, the mountain ranges rise steeply to a maximum of 1,859 meters on Savai'i. The climate is tropical with abundant rainfall. Humidity averages 80 percent. The average monthly temperature ranges from 22° to 30° C.

Demography. In 1980, the Samoan population was about 188,000 (American Samoa: 32,000; Western Samoa: 156,000). In the middle of the nineteenth century, the aboriginal population of Western Samoa was estimated at 35,000; the aboriginal population of Tutuila was estimated at 3,900 in 1865. The Samoan Islands are the home of the largest concentration of full-blooded Polynesians in the world. Today, many Samoans live and work abroad, mainly in New Zealand, Australia, Hawaii, and California.

Linguistic Affiliation. The Samoan language belongs to the Polynesian Group of Austronesian languages. There are no dialects; except for minor local variants the same language is spoken on all the Samoan Islands.

History and Cultural Relations

Settlement of the Fiji-Tonga-Samoa area by people belonging to the prehistoric Melanesian Lapita culture took place Between about 1500 and 1000 b.c. Genealogical, mythological, and linguistic evidence suggests that relations with both Tonga and Fiji were maintained throughout the prehistoric period, with intermarriage occurring among the upper classes especially of the Samoan and Tongan population. The first European to sight the Samoan Islands in 1722 was the Dutch explorer Jacob Roggeveen, though he did not land there. In about 1800 some isolated European sailors and escaped convicts settled on Samoa, bringing with them the first notion of Christianity. In 1830, the missionary John Williams of the London Missionary Society (LMS) landed in Savai'i during a power struggle among factions, bringing with him native Polynesian missionaries from Tahiti and the Cook Islands. The first permanent European missionaries arrived in 1835 (LMS and Methodists), followed by Roman Catholic priests in 1845. During the nineteenth century, Germany, Great Britain, and the United States strove for influence among the diverse Samoan factions. In 1900, Western Samoa became a German colony (until 1914) and Eastern Samoa was claimed by the United States. From 1914 to 1962, New Zealand administered Western Samoa, which became an independent state in 1962, with kings Malietoa Tanumafili II and Tupua Tamasese Mea'ole serving as joint heads of state. Before World War II, administrative policies by the New Zealand administration led to the "Mau," a resistance movement (19261936) that mustered the support of about 90 percent of the Samoan population at its height. American Samoa remains a United States territory. After constitutional changes, Peter Tali Coleman became the first elected native Samoan governor in 1977.

Settlements

The Samoans have been mainly a coast-dwelling people living in self-governing, autonomous towns (nu'u ) linked by Political and ceremonial alliances. Households center on the sacred central place (malae ) of each nu'u where the ranking high chief's assembly house is also situated. Town populations range between 300 and 1,200 persons and average 450 to 600 persons. In the middle of the last century, town Populations averaged 200 to 500 persons. However, a census taken of twenty-two towns in the district of Aana, Western Upolu, Manono, and Apolima in 1867 shows that town populations ranged between 40 and 310 persons only, the mean being 164 persons. In the nineteenth century, there were a few inland settlements, too. In recent years, there has been a tendency to give up settlements along the coast and to shift towns to newly built roads farther inland.

Economy

Subsistence and Commercial Activities. The Samoans are horticulturalists, raising tubers (taro and yams) on a swidden basis. They also grow bananas, breadfruit, and coconuts and supplement their diet through fishing. They raise chickens and pigs, too, but pork is reserved as a special food for ceremonial occasions. Hunting for runaway pigs is still practiced with the help of dogs, but it's probably done more for sport than for food. Pigeon snaring also formerly served as an entertainment and as a sporting event. Terracing and irrigation are not practiced. There are small house gardens for raising staple foods in the back of the households, but the main taro gardens often lie 3-4 kilometers farther inland. The primary cultigens are taro and breadfruit. Contact with Europeans resulted in the addition of new sorts of bananas and vegetables, which are grown today mainly by the small Chinese population for consumption and sale. Many Samoan families earn a small income by selling coconuts to the Western Samoan Trust Estate Corporation, which does the processing. There are many small family businesses, shops, and guest houses, the majority of them in Apia, the capital of Western Samoa. In many local communities there is a small shop where locals can buy a limited range of products, many of them imported.

Industrial Arts. Aboriginal crafts included the making of bark cloth, house building, boat building, and tattooing. House builders, boat builders, and tattooers were organized in guilds. They met the demands of prestige consumption, since small boats and houses were and are built by the male members of each household. Mat weaving is practiced by women.

Trade. There was only a limited amount of interregional trade in precontact times. Samoan fine mats ('ie tōga ) were exchanged for parrots and red parrot feathers from Tonga and sometimes from Fiji. Intraregional trade, too, was Limited. Some regions and places were noted for their products, such as nets, which are said to have been made mostly by towns in the interior. Some places were noted for their boats, adzes, and kava bowls. After contact with the Europeans, trade of coconut products (oil and copra) was encouraged by the missionaries, but it became a regular and important activity only after the German firm of Godeffroy and Son from Hamburg founded a branch in Apia, Western Samoa, in 1857. Traders were stationed in Samoa and on other Pacific islands, but there was also direct trading with the Samoans. In 1865, the firm established its first coconut plantations. Today, Western Samoa is dependent on the world market, its three most important export items being copra, cocoa, and bananas. Western Samoan governments seek to promote tourism, and beer brewing may develop into a profitable enterprise, at least for the regional market.


Division of Labor. Men do the more strenuous agricultural work, such as clearing and planting with a pointed hardwood digging stick, while women may weed and help in harvest activities. Men are responsible for fishing beyond the reef and for cooking; they engage in toolmaking, house and boat building, and ornament making. Women look after the household, raise the children, and plait mats and fans; formerly they also made bark cloth. They collect edible wild plants to supplement the diet and they forage in the lagoon and reef for small sea animals.


Land Tenure. Aboriginally, the widest social unit for landownership was the community (nu'u). Its domain included all the territory from the central mountain ridge to the reef. The heads (matai ) of the different descent groups ( 'āiga ) of the community were entitled to claim blocks of land for themselves and their dependents. Overall authority over lands, however, was vested in the council of matai (fono), whose members could revoke ownership of the respective 'āiga. Individuals had the right to occupy and cultivate the land of the descent group to which they belonged. When Western Samoa became independent, 80.5 percent of its territory was still considered customary land, administered outside the statute law in accordance with traditional principles of tenure; 3.7 percent of the land was freehold; 11.3 percent was government land; and the Western Samoan Trust Estate Corporation owned 4.5 percent. American Samoa, too, has provisions that restrict ownership of land to Samoans.

Kinship

Kin Groups and Descent. In Samoa there are overlapping cognatic descent groups ('āiga) with an emphasis on agnation. Each descent group has a localized section in a Community where its lands and chiefly (matai) titles traditionally belong; other members live in other communities on the lands of other 'āiga. Localized sections hold and allocate land to their members, regulate marriage, and control conflict among members. Between the descent groups there exist multifarious relationships that are genealogically explained, forming ramified descent structures, both at the community and at the supracommunity level. Not all of these structures are Descent groups in the strict anthropological sense of the term, however, since in some of them only matai are members. These structures are 'āiga in a metaphorical sense only. They play an important part in supracommunity territorial integration.

Kinship Terminology. Kin terms follow a Hawaiian-type system.


Marriage and the Family

Marriage. Members of the father's and mother's descent groups are forbidden as marriage partners, and community endogamy is also discouraged. Bride and groom should be of similar rank. Today, a church wedding is an important and costly affair, but many marriages are still customary ones, man and wife living together with their parents' consent after the appropriate exchange of goods. Premarital virginity is highly valued and a girl's moral code prohibits sexual relations with a man unless she is recognized as his wife. Customary marriages among younger people frequently end in Divorce, however, and the partners may have undergone several such marriages before eventually contracting a church Wedding. Residence tends to be virilocal, but during the early stages of married life a couple frequently resides with the wife's family. In pre-Christian times, polygyny was practiced, although probably only by matai of high rank.

Domestic Unit. The localized section of a descent group, forming an extended family and living in a group of houses clustered around a common hearth, is the customary Domestic unit. In modern times, the nuclear family has become more frequent.

Inheritance. Members of the descent group retain rights to use and control of customary land occupied and cultivated by their 'äiga, regardless of where they live. The same applies to matai titles that are not subject to any automatic Inheritance rule. A family council will decide to confer a vacant title upon a memberusually malewhom they consider to be the best choice. Especially with regard to high titles, however, agnatic succession is preferred.

Socialization. Starting at about 1½ years of age, children become subject to an education Europeans would label as "authoritarian." They are expected to obey their parents and elders at once, without hesitation and without asking questions. Overt and direct expressions of hostility and aggression are discouraged, but musu, the state of sullen unwillingness to comply with orders, is a culturally tolerated outlet. Much of the actual education work takes place in the peer groups where older brothers and especially sisters are made responsible for the behavior of their younger siblings. Formal education in schools is considered essential for the well-being of the entire family today and parents usually encourage some of their children to remain in high school.

Sociopolitical Organization

Social Organization. Rank goes with age and the position a matai title holds within the complicated title structure. An older sister ranks higher than her brother. The descendants of a sister still enjoy a special respected status within the descent group. Christianity has emphasized the status of the wife, however, and the sister's position is not as pronounced today as it once was. Within most descent groups, there are two sets of matai: aristocrats (ali'i ), who embody the group's dignity; and orators (tulāfale ), who take a more official role when they speak on behalf of the ali'i at certain formal public events. Each matai supervises and looks after the family under his immediate control and is responsible for it vis-à-vis the community.

Political Organization. Communities (nu'u) are Politically independent but are organized into districts and subDistricts for ceremonial purposes. Aboriginally, war, too, was a supracommunity concern. Ceremonies on a supracommunity level often focus on the life-crisis rites of certain very high-ranking titleholders, the tama-a-'āiga, which are not to be confused with matai and should rather be called kings. Formal political control within the community is exercised by the council of matai (fono) with the 'aumaga (the untitled men's organization) serving as executive body. Women's committees exist today in all communities, playing an important role in community affairs as an unofficial arm of local government. They replace or complement the aualuma, the group made up of the sisters and daughters of the community, which played an important ceremonial role in former times.

Social Control. Informal social control is exercised through gossip and was formerly aided by the open Samoan houses, which prevented privacy. Formal control is exercised through the fono, which retains the right to expel individuals and, in rare cases, entire 'āiga from the community and its lands.

Conflict. In aboriginal times and throughout the nineteenth century, conflicts over titles and lands often resulted in wars. Such cases are adjudicated today by special law courts. Competitivenesssuch as evidenced in, for instance, the zeal of untitled men to distinguish themselves as good servants to their matai, in oratory, in donations to the church, etc.adds areas of conflict to social life.

Religion and Expressive Culture

Religious Beliefs. Today, Samoans are devout Christians, following diverse Protestant denominations, as well as the Roman Catholic church. Pre-Christian beliefs in ancestor-spirits (aitu ) are still widespread, but they are not openly confessed vis-à-vis Europeans. Aitu formerly were family gods, and they have retained their character as locally associated and kinship-bound deified ancestors. There was a belief in a supreme being, Tangaloa, but Samoa probably never developed a national cult like that of the Society Islands or Hawaii. Tangaloa was a deus otiosus who withdrew after having caused the emergence of the islands and set in motion the process which led to the evolution of natural phenomena and, ultimately, humans. Aitu were the active numinous beings who interfered directly in everyday life.

Religious Practitioners.

In aboriginal times, each matai was a religious practitioner responsible for the worship of the family aitu. Some matai played paramount roles as oracles of particular aitu of supralocal importance. Today, matai continue to lead family prayers (to the Christian God), but there are also native pastors, trained in local theological seminaries, and priests who conduct formal church services.

Ceremonies.

Many native ceremonies focus on life-cycle rites. Attendance is an expression of the rank of the persons involved. The kava ceremony, in which a beverage prepared from the 'ava root (Piper methysticum ) was consumed in Ceremonial style, was performed to honor important guests and to mark important social events, such as the deliberations of the fono.

Arts. Oratory, dancing, singing, and tattooing continue to be means of aesthetic expression. Today, hymns for church services are an important outlet for expressive needs. The traditional art of bark-cloth (siapo ) making and printing is not very widespread today.

Medicine. In aboriginal times, disease was supposed to be caused by the wrath of some particular aitu. Treatment was sought with the aid of the special matai, Taulāitu (whose name means "anchor of the Aitu"). They were asked to intercede with the aitu they represented. Various herbs and plants were administered and massage was also applied.

Death and Afterlife. Samoans believe in the dichotomous character of human nature. The separation of the "soul" (agāga ) and body (tino ) is tantamount to death. That the agāga continued to live after death as an aitu was the focal topic of the pre-Christian religion. There are various accounts of an afterworld, but no uniform picture of its nature can be gleaned from the historical and ethnographic sources.

See alsoOntong Java, Rotuma, Tokelau, Tonga

Bibliography

Cain, Horst (1979). Aitu. Eine Untersuchung zur Autochthonen Religion der Samoaner. Wiesbaden: Franz Steiner Verlag.

Finney, Joseph C. (1973). "The Meaning of the Name Sāmoa." Journal of the Polynesian Society 82:301-303.

Gilson, R. P. (1970). Samoa 1830 to 1900. The Politics of a Multi-Cultural Community. Melbourne: Oxford University Press.

Holmes, Lowell D. (1974). Samoan Village. Case Studies in Cultural Anthropology. New York: Holt, Rinehart & Winston.

THOMAS BARGATZKY

Samoa

views updated May 21 2018

Samoa

Compiled from the September 2006 Background Note and supplemented with additional information from the State Department and the editors of this volume. See the introduction to this set for explanatory notes.

Official Name:
Independent State of Samoa

PROFILE

GEOGRAPHY AND PEOPLE

HISTORY

GOVERNMENT

POLITICAL CONDITIONS

ECONOMY

FOREIGN RELATIONS

TRAVEL

PROFILE

Geography

Area: 2,934 sq. km. (1,133 sq. mi.) in two main islands plus seven smaller ones.

Cities: Capital (pop. 34,000)—Apia.

Terrain: Mountainous with narrow coastal plain.

Climate: Tropical.

People

Nationality: Noun and adjective— Samoan.

Population: (July 2004 est.) 177,714. Age structure—28.3% under 15; 6.3% over 65.

Growth rate: -0.25% (mainly due to emigration).

Ethnic groups: Samoan 92.6%, Euronesian (mixed European and Polynesian) 7%, European 0.4%.

Religion: Christian 99.7%.

Languages: Samoan, English.

Education: Literacy—99.7%.

Health: Life expectancy—male 67.64 yrs.; female 73.33 yrs. Infant mortality rate—29.72/1,000.

Work force: Agriculture—64%; services—30%.

Government

Type: Mix of parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy.

Independence: (from New Zealand-administered UN trusteeship) January 1, 1962.

Constitution: January 1, 1962.

Government branches: Executive—head of state (incumbent serves for life; successors will be elected), prime minister (head of government), cabinet. Legislative—unicameral parliament (Fono). Judicial—Supreme Court and supporting hierarchy.

Political parties: Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP), Samoa Democratic United Party (SDUP), and Samoa Party (SP).

Economy

GDP: $284.3. million.

GDP per capita: (nominal) $1,600.

GDP composition by sector: Services 59%, industry 28%, agriculture 14%.

Industry: Types—tourism, coconuts, small scale manufacturing, fishing.

Trade: Exports—$15.9 million: coconut products, fish, (processing of automotive components). Export markets—New Zealand, Australia, U.S. (includes American Samoa). Imports—$30.3 million: food and beverages, industrial supplies. Import sources—New Zealand, Australia, U.S. ($4.73 million), Fiji.

External debt: $151.5 million (90% is owed to multilateral lenders).

Currency: tala (or Samoan dollar).

GEOGRAPHY AND PEOPLE

Samoa consists of the two large islands of Upolu and Savai’i and seven small islets located about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand in the Polynesian region of the South Pacific. The main island of Upolu is home to nearly three-quarters of Samoa’s population and its capital city of Apia. The climate is tropical, with a rainy season from November to April.

The Fa’a Samoa, or traditional Samoan way, remains a strong force in Samoan life and politics. Despite centuries of European influence, Samoa maintains its historical customs, social systems, and language, which is believed to be the oldest form of Polynesian speech still in existence. Only the Maoris of New Zealand outnumber the Samoans among Polynesian groups.

HISTORY

Migrants from Southeast Asia arrived in the Samoan islands more than 2,000 years ago and from there settled the rest of Polynesia further to the east. Contact with Europeans began in the early 1700s but did not intensify until the arrival of English missionaries and traders in the 1830s. At the turn of the 20th century, the Samoan islands were split into two sections. The eastern islands became territories of the United States in 1904 and today are known as American Samoa. The western islands became known as Western Samoa (now just Samoa), passing from German control to New Zealand in 1914. New Zealand administered Western Samoa under the auspices of the League of Nations and then as a UN trusteeship until independence in 1962. Western Samoa was the first Pacific Island country to gain its independence.

In July 1997 the Constitution was amended to change the country’s name from Western Samoa to Samoa. Samoa had been known simply as Samoa in the United Nations since joining the organization in 1976. The neighboring U.S. territory of American Samoa protested the move, feeling that the change diminished its own Samoan identity. American Samoans still use the terms Western Samoa and Western Samoans.

GOVERNMENT

The 1960 Constitution, which formally came into force with independence, is based on the British pattern of parliamentary democracy, modified to take account of Samoan customs. Samoa’s two high chiefs at the time of independence were given lifetime appointments to jointly hold the office of head of state. Malietoa Tanumafili II has held this post alone since the death of his colleague in 1963. His eventual successor will be selected by the legislature for a 5-year term.

The unicameral legislature (Fono) contains 49 members serving 5-year terms. Forty-seven are elected from territorial districts by ethnic Samoans districts; the other two are chosen by non-Samoans on separate electoral rolls. Universal suffrage was extended in 1990, but only chiefs (matai) may stand for election to the Samoan seats. There are more than 25,000 matais in the country, about 5% of whom are women. The prime minister is chosen by a majority in the Fono and is appointed by the chief of state to form a government. The prime minister’s choices for the 12 cabinet positions are appointed by the chief of state, subject to the continuing confidence of the Fono.

The judicial system is based on English common law and local customs. The Supreme Court is the court of highest jurisdiction. Its chief justice is appointed by the chief of state upon the recommendation of the prime minister.

Principal Government Officials

Last Updated: 9/27/2005

Head of State: Malietoa, Tanumafili II

Prime Minister: Tuila’epa, Sailele Malielegaoi

Deputy Prime Minister: Misa, Telefoni Retzlaff

Min. of Agriculture: Tuisugaletaua, Sofara Aveau

Min. of Commerce, Industry, & Labor: Hans, Joachim

Min. of Communication & Information Technology: Palusalue, Faapo

Min. of Education, Sports, & Culture: Fiame, Naomi Mata’afa

Min. of Foreign Affairs: Tuila’epa, Sailele Malielegaoi

Min. of Health: Mulitalo, Siafausa Vui

Min. of Justice & Courts Admin.:

Min. of Natural Resources & Environment: Tagaloa, Sale Tagaloa

Min. of Police: Ulu, Vaomalo Kini

Min. of Revenue: Gaina, Tino

Min. of Women, Community, & Social Development: Tuala, Ainiu Iusitino

Min. of Works, Transport, & Infrastructure: Faumuina, Liuga

Attorney General: Heather, Brenda

Governor, Central Bank: Scanlan, Papali’i Tommy

Ambassador to the US: Elisaia, Aliioaiga Feturi

Permanent Representative to the UN, New York: Elisaia, Aliioaiga Feturi

Samoa maintains its diplomatic representation in the United States at 800 2nd Avenue, Suite 400D, New York, NY 10017; tel: 212-599-6196.

POLITICAL CONDITIONS

Since 1982 the majority party in the Fono has been the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP). HRPP leader Tofilau Eti Alesana served as prime minister for nearly all of the period between 1982 and 1998, when he resigned due to health reasons. Tofilau Eti was replaced by his deputy, Tuila’epa Sailele Malielegaoi.

Parliamentary elections were held in March 2006. The Human Rights Protection Party, led by Tuila’epa Sailele Malielegaoi, won 35 of the 49 seats in the current Fono. The Samoa Democratic Unity Party, led by Le Mamea Ropati, is the main opposition party, with 10 members elected in 2006; there are also four independent members. A new political party, the Samoa Party, was launched recently but is not represented in the Fono.

ECONOMY

The Samoan economy is dependent on agricultural exports, tourism, and capital flows from abroad. The effects of three natural disasters in the early 1990s were overcome by the middle of the decade, but economic growth cooled again with the regional economic downturn. Long-run development depends upon upgrading the tourist infrastructure, attracting foreign investment, and further diversification of the economy.

Two major cyclones hit Samoa at the beginning of the 1990s. Cyclone Ofa left an estimated 10,000 islanders homeless in February 1990; Cyclone Val caused 13 deaths and hundreds of millions of dollars in damage in December 1991. As a result, GDP declined by nearly 50% from 1989 to 1991. These experiences and Samoa’s position as a low-lying island state punctuate its concern about global climate change.

Further economic problems occurred in 1994 with an outbreak of taro leaf blight and the near collapse of the national airline Polynesian Airlines.

Taro, a root crop, traditionally was Samoa’s largest export, generating more than half of all export revenue in 1993. But a fungal blight decimated the plants, and in each year since 1994 taro exports have accounted for less than 1% of export revenue. Polynesian Airlines reached a financial crisis in 1994, which disrupted the tourist industry and eventually required a government bailout.

The government responded to these shocks with a major program of road building and post-cyclone infrastructure repair. Economic reforms were stepped up, including the liberalization of exchange controls. GDP growth rebounded to over 6% in both 1995 and 1996 before slowing again at the end of the decade.

The service sector accounts for more than half of GDP and employs approximately 30% of the labor force. Tourism is the largest-single activity, more than doubling in visitor numbers and revenue over the last decade. More than 85,000 visitors came to Samoa in 1999, contributing over $12 million to the local economy. One-third came from American Samoa, 28% from New Zealand, and 11% from the United States. Arrivals increased in 2000, as visitors to the South Pacific avoided the political strife in Fiji by traveling to Samoa instead. The primary sector (agriculture, forestry, and fishing) employs nearly two-thirds of the labor force and produces 17% of GDP. Important products include coconuts and fish.

Industry accounts for over one-quarter of GDP while employing less than 6% of the work force. The largest industrial venture is Yazaki Samoa, a Japanese-owned company processing automotive components for export to Australia under a concessional market-access arrangement. The Yazaki plant employs more than 2,000 workers and makes up over 20% of the manufacturing sector’s total output. Net receipts amount to between $1.5 million and $3.03 million annually, although shipments from Yazaki are counted as services (export processing) and therefore do not officially appear as merchandise exports. New Zealand is Samoa’s principal trading partner, typically providing between 35% and 40% of imports and purchasing 45%-50% of exports. Australia, American Samoa, the U.S., and Fiji also are important trading partners. Samoa’s principal exports are coconut products and fish. Its main imports are food and beverages, industrial supplies, and fuels.

The collapse of taro exports in 1994 has had the unintended effect of modestly diversifying Samoa’s export products and markets. Prior to the taro leaf blight, Samoa’s exports consisted of taro ($1.1 million), coconut cream ($540,000), and “other” ($350,000). Ninety percent of exports went to the Pacific region, and only 1% went to Europe. Forced to look for alternatives to taro, Samoa’s exporters have dramatically increased the production of copra, coconut oil, and fish. These three products, which combined to produce export revenue of less than $100,000 in 1993, now account for over $3.8 million. There also has been a relative shift from Pacific markets to European ones, which now receive nearly 15% of Samoa’s exports. Samoa’s exports are still concentrated in coconut products ($2.36 million worth of copra, copra meal, coconut oil, and coconut cream) and fish ($1.51 million) but are at least somewhat more diverse than before.

Samoa annually receives important financial assistance from abroad. The more than 100,000 Samoans who live overseas provide two sources of revenue. Their direct remittances have amounted to $90 million per year recently (about 22 percent of GDP), and they account for more than half of all tourist visits. In addition to the expatriate community, Samoa also receives more than $28 million annually in official bilateral development assistance from sources led by China, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. These three sources of revenue— tourism, private transfers, and official transfers—allow Samoa to cover its persistently large trade deficit.

FOREIGN RELATIONS

The Samoan Government is generally conservative and pro-Western, with a strong interest in regional political and economic issues. At independence in 1962, Samoa signed a Treaty of Friendship with New Zealand. This treaty confirms the special relationship between the two countries and provides a framework for their interaction. Under the terms of the treaty, Samoa can request that New Zealand act as a channel of communication to governments and international organizations outside the immediate area of the Pacific islands. Samoa also can request defense assistance, which New Zealand is required to consider (Samoa does not maintain a formal military). Overall Samoa has strong links with New Zealand, where many Samoans now live and many others were educated.

The Samoan Government was an outspoken critic of the French decision to resume nuclear weapons testing in the South Pacific in 1995. An indefinite ban was placed on visits to Samoa by French warships and aircraft. Large-scale street demonstrations were held in Apia. The French tests concluded in early 1996. Samoa participated in a first round of negotiations with its Pacific Island neighbors for a regional trade agreement in August 2000.

Principal U.S. Embassy Officials

APIA (E) Address: U.S. Embassy, 5th Floor, ACB House, Matafele, Apia, Samoa; APO/FPO: American Embassy, PSC 467 BOX 1, APO AP 96531-1034; Phone: (685) 21-631; Fax: (685) 22-030; Workweek: Monday to Friday, 0800–1630.

AMB:William P. McCormick (Resident Wellington)
DCM/CHG:George W. Colvin Jr
MGT:Ronna Pazdral (Wellington)
CA:Richard Adams (Auckland)
DAO:Rick Martinez (Wellington)
FMO:Preston Hatchell (Wellington)
GSO:Jason Kalbfleisch (Wellington)
ICASS Chair:Non-ICASS Post
ISSO:See DCM/Charge
PAO:Roy Glover (Wellington)
RSO:James Doherty State
ICASS:Non-ICASS Post

Last Updated: 11/30/2006

TRAVEL

Consular Information Sheet : October 16, 2006

Country Description: Samoa consists of the two large islands of Upolu and Savai’i and seven small islets. The country has a stable parliamentary democracy with a developing economy. Tourist facilities are accessible by bus, taxi, and car and are within walking distance of access roads. Infrastructure is adequate in Apia, the capital, but it is limited in other areas. The Samoan Tourism Authority has a wide range of information of interest to travelers, and can be contacted at http://www.visit-samoa.ws.

Entry and Exit Requirements: Samoa’s entry and exit requirements for U.S. non-citizen nationals have changed slightly (effective May 31, 2005). It is important to note in this regard that U.S. law distinguishes between individuals who are citizens and individuals who are nationals. The bio-page of one’s U.S. passport will indicate one’s status as either a citizen or non-citizen national. U.S. nationals who are not U.S. citizens, and who are resident in American Samoa, are now required to obtain visitor permits prior to all travel to Samoa. They are no longer permitted to travel to Samoa on certificates of identity. As of March 22, 2006, visitor permits to travel to Samoa can be applied for at the new Samoa Consulate General office in Pago Pago, American Samoa. A valid passport and an onward/return ticket are required for all Americans (both citizens and nationals) to travel to Samoa. Visitor permits are not required for U.S. citizens (only for U.S. nationals) seeking to stay in Samoa for up to 60 days. All visitors are required to pay a departure tax of 40-tala (approximately 16.00 USD) upon leaving the country. Further information about entry requirements and the departure tax may be obtained from the Samoa Mission to the United Nations at 800-2nd Avenue, Suite 400J, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 599-6196 and 7, fax (212) 599-0797.

Safety and Security: In Apia and many villages, stray dogs wander the streets. Visitors should not approach or feed them; they can become aggressive in the presence of food or if they feel threatened.

Although there have been no major accidents involving the ferry service linking Upolu and Savai’i, vessels are sometimes overloaded. One of the ferries, a multi-deck automobile ferry, sometimes transports passengers on its automobile deck. Americans who choose to use this ferry are encouraged not to remain in the automobile deck during the crossing and to ride only in the passenger compartment in order to avoid injury from shifting vehicles.

Samoa has numerous “blowholes” (lava tubes open to the sea where wave action produces, often spectacular, geysers). These blowholes are popular tourist attractions. The footing around the mouths of most blowholes is very slippery. To avoid being swept in, visitors should not approach too closely and should never stand between the opening of the blowhole and the sea.

Snorkeling in ocean lagoons is a popular activity for many visitors to Samoa. Tide changes can produce powerful currents in these lagoons. Visitors are encouraged to consult local residents about hazards and conditions at a particular location before venturing into the water.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Internet web site, where the current Travel Warnings and Public Announcements, including the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, can be found.

Up-to-date information of safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., and Canada, or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Crime: Overall, Samoa is considered a low threat environment. Nevertheless, visitors should remain aware of their surroundings, lock their doors at night, and not leave their belongings unattended. Although violent crimes involving foreign visitors are rare, incidents of petty theft/robberies of personal effects are fairly common.

Information for Victims of Crime: The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney, if needed.

Medical Facilities and Health Information: Health care facilities in Samoa are adequate for routine medical treatment, but are limited in range and availability. The national hospital and a small private hospital are located in Apia, and there are several small district hospitals on Savai’i and in outlying areas of Upolu. Serious medical conditions and treatments that require hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost thousands of dollars. Travelers should carry emergency evacuation insurance. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. There is no reported incidence of malaria or rabies in Samoa. Occasional outbreaks of typhoid and nonhemorrhagic dengue do occur.

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); or via the CDC’s Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization’s (WHO) website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

Medical Insurance: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation.

Traffic Safety and Road Conditions: While in a foreign country, Americans may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Samoa is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance:

Safety of public transportation and rural road conditions are considered as fair, while urban road conditions/maintenance is considered good. No roadside assistance is available. Most major roads are tar-sealed, but secondary roads are predominantly dirt and gravel and may be overgrown with vegetation. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for travel on these roads. Travelers should be aware that vehicle safety regulations are rarely enforced and traffic violations occur routinely. Night driving on unlit rural roads can be dangerous and should be avoided if possible. Roads in Samoa often traverse small streams. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution when fording these streams, which can become swollen and dangerous with little warning. Vehicles should never enter a stream if the roadbed is not visible or if the water’s depth exceeds the vehicle’s clearance.

For specific information concerning Samoa driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, contact the Samoa Tourism Authority at P.O. Box 2272, Apia, Samoa; telephone (685) 63500, fax (685) 20886, email [email protected] or [email protected]. You may wish to consult the web site: http://www.visitsamoa.ws as well.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Samoa’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Samoa’s air carrier operations. For more information, travelers may visit the FAA’s Internet web site at http://www.faa.gov.

Special Circumstances: Some overseas treatment centers, known as Behavior Modification Facilities, operate in Samoa. Though these facilities may be operated and staffed by U.S. citizens, the Samoan government is solely responsible for compliance with local safety, health, sanitation and educational laws and regulations, including all licensing requirements of the staff in country. These standards, if any, may not be strictly enforced or meet the standards of similar facilities in the U.S. Parents should be aware that U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals 14 years of age and older have a right to apply for a passport and to request repatriation assistance from the U.S. government, both without parental consent. Any U.S. citizen or non-citizen enrollee has the right to contact a representative from the U.S. Embassy. For further information, consult the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Behavior Modification Facilities, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page. Parents may also contact the U.S. Embassy in Apia or the country officer in the Office of American Citizens Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs at 202-647-5226.

Samoa is located in an area of high seismic activity. Although the probability that a major earthquake would occur during an individual trip is remote, earthquakes can and will continue to happen. Major cyclones have occurred in the past and are always a concern. Strong winds are very common especially during the rainy season from November to April. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) web site http://www.fema.gov/.

Samoa customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Samoa of items such as firearms, fruits, pets and drugs. It is advisable to contact the Samoan Mission to the United Nations at 800 2nd Avenue, Suite 400J, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 599-6196 for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Criminal Penalties: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals are subject to that country’s laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses.

Persons violating Samoa’s laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Samoa are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in the United States.

Children’s Issues: Samoa is not a member of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, see the Office of Children’s Issues website at http://travel.state.gov/family/family_1732.html.

Registration/Embassy Location: Americans, both citizens and non citizen nationals, living or traveling in Samoa are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration website, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Samoa.

Americans without Internet access may register directly at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Samoa and obtain updated information on travel and security within Samoa. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of an emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located in the Accident Compensation Board (ACB) Building, Fifth Floor, Apia. The Embassy is open to the public from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday—Friday.

The Embassy’s mailing address is U.S. Embassy, P.O. Box 3430, Apia, Samoa 0815. The telephone numbers are (685) 21436/21631/22696 and 21452. The fax number is (685) 22030. An Embassy officer can be reached after hours in an emergency involving the welfare of a U.S. citizen or non-citizen national at (685) 21514 or (685) 777-1776.

International Adoption : February 2007

The information below has been edited from a report of the State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Overseas Citizens Services. For more information, please read the International Adoption section of this book and review current reports online at www.travel.state.gov/family.

Disclaimer: The information in this flyer relating to the legal requirements of specific foreign countries is based on public sources and our current understanding. Questions involving foreign and U.S. immigration laws and legal interpretation should be addressed respectively to qualified foreign or U.S. legal counsel.

Patterns of Immigration: Please review current reports online at www.travel.state.gov/family.

Adoption Authorities: The government offices responsible for adoptions in Samoa are:

Ministry of Justice & Courts Administration
APIA
Ph: (685) 22-671
Fax: (685) 21-050
Office of the Attorney General
P.O. Box 27, APIA
Ph: (685) 20-295
e-mail: [email protected]

Eligibility Requirements for Adoptive Parents: Prospective adoptive parents must be of the age of majority, which is 21. They may be married or single.

Samoan law requires that before any Samoan court grants an adoption of a Samoan child to a citizen of another country, the Samoan Attorney General must certify that:

  • the child has no suitable family members in Samoa who are willing and able to care for the child in Samoa; and
  • there is no other suitable arrangement available in Samoa.

Residency Requirements: There is no specific requirement that the applicants be residents of Samoa.

Time Frame: The adoption process may take from several months to a year or more.

Adoption Agencies and Attorneys: Samoan law requires that adoption agencies, prior to facilitating adoptions in or from Samoa, must be registered with the Samoan Government and have the prior written authorization from the Attorney General. The U.S. Embassy in Apia maintains a list of attorneys at: http://wellington.usembassy.gov/pacific_islands.html.

Adoption Fees: Attorneys’ fees range from $900- $1200. In addition, prospective adoptive parents should expect to pay approximately $300 for justice and court administration fees.

Adoption Procedures: Adoption applications must be made to the Magistrates Court, which may in turn determine that the Supreme Court should review the case. As was stated above, certification from the Attorney General that the child has no family or other possibilities within Samoa is required before an adoption decree may be granted.

Documentary Requirements:

  • Original Birth Certificates for adoptive parents
  • Original Marriage Certificate for adoptive parents
  • Proof of Citizenship – Naturalization Certificates/Passports
  • Original birth certificate for adopted child
  • Proof of ownership of home from adoptive parents and adequate space in the home for the child.

Permanent Mission of Samoa to the United Nations:
800 Second Avenue, Suite 400J
New York, New York 10017
Tel: 212 599 6196
Fax: 212 599 0797
Email: [email protected]

U.S. Immigration Requirements: Prospective adoptive parents are strongly encouraged to consult USCIS publication M-249, The Immigration of Adopted and Prospective Adoptive Children, as well as the Department of State publication, International Adoptions. Please see the International Adoption section of this book for more details and review current reports online at www.travel.state.gov/family.

American Embassy:
5th Floor, ACB Building,
Matafele Street
Apia, SAMOA
Phone: (685) 21436
Fax: (685) 22030
Email: [email protected]

Additional Information: Specific questions about adoption in Samoa may be addressed to the U.S. Embassy in Apia, Samoa or the U.S. Consulate General in Auckland, New Zealand.

General questions regarding inter-country adoption may be addressed to the Office of Children’s Issues, U.S. Department of State, CA/OCS/CI, SA-29, 4th Floor, 2201 C Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20520-4818, toll-free Tel: 1-888-407-4747.

Samoa

views updated May 14 2018

Samoa

1 Location and Size

2 Topography

3 Climate

4 Plants and Animals

5 Environment

6 Population

7 Migration

8 Ethnic Groups

9 Languages

10 Religions

11 Transportation

12 History

13 Government

14 Political Parties

15 Judicial System

16 Armed Forces

17 Economy

18 Income

19 Industry

20 Labor

21 Agriculture

22 Domesticated Animals

23 Fishing

24 Forestry

25 Mining

26 Foreign Trade

27 Energy and Power

28 Social Development

29 Health

30 Housing

31 Education

32 Media

33 Tourism and Recreation

34 Famous Samoans

35 Bibliography

Independent State of Samoa
Malo Sa’oloto Tuto’atasi o Samoa i Sisifo

CAPITAL: Apia

FLAG: The upper-left quarter of the flag is blue and bears five white, five-rayed stars representing the Southern Cross; the remainder of the flag is red.

ANTHEM: The Flag of Freedom.

MONETARY UNIT: The Samoan tala (ws$) is a paper currency of 100 sene. There are coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 sene and 1 tala, and notes of 2, 5, 10, 20, and 100 talas. ws$1 = us$0.35962 (or us$1 = ws$2.7807) as of 2004.

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES: British weights and measures are used.

HOLIDAYS: New Year’s, 1–2 January; Independence Holidays (first three workdays of June); Anzac Day, 25 April; Christmas Day, 25 December; Boxing Day, 26 December. Movable religious holidays are Good Friday, Easter Monday, and Whitmonday.

TIME: 1 am = noon GMT.

1 Location and Size

Samoa consists of the islands of Savai’i and Upolu and several smaller islands, of which only two are inhabited. The group, situated in the Pacific Ocean among the South Sea Islands, has a total land area of 2,944 square kilometers (1,137 square miles), slightly smaller than the state of Rhode Island. Its total coastline length is 403 kilometers (250 miles).

2 Topography

The islands are volcanic, with coral reefs surrounding most of them. Rugged ranges rise to 1,116 meters (3,660 feet) at Mauga Fito on Upolu and 1,857 meters (6,096 feet) at Mauga Silisili on Savai’i (which is the highest point in the country. Apolima is a volcanic crater whose wall is pierced by a passage that connects its harbor with the sea. Manono, about 70 meters (230 feet) high, consists chiefly of coral sand. The islands are in an area of high volcanic activity.

3 Climate

The climate is tropical, but because of the oceanic surroundings, temperature ranges are not considerable. The hottest month is December and the coldest is July. The mean daily temperature

GEOGRAPHICAL PROFILE

Geographic Features

Area: 2,944 sq km (1,137 sq mi)

Size ranking: 167 of 194

Highest elevation: 1,857 meters (6,092 feet) at Mount Silisili

Lowest elevation: Sea level at the Pacific Ocean

Land Use*

Arable land: 21%

Permanent crops: 24%

Other: 55%

Weather**

Average annual precipitation: 287 centimeters (113 inches)

Average temperature in January: 27°c (80°f)

Average temperature in July: 25°c (77°f)

* Arable Land: Land used for temporary crops, like meadows for mowing or pasture, gardens, and greenhouses.

Permanent crops: Land cultivated with crops that occupy its use for long periods, such as cocoa, coffee, rubber, fruit and nut orchards, and vineyards.

Other: Any land not specified, including built-on areas, roads, and barren land.

** The measurements for precipitation and average temperatures were taken at weather stations closest to the country’s largest city.

Precipitation and average temperature can vary significantly within a country, due to factors such as latitude, altitude, coastal proximity, and wind patterns.

in January is about 27°c (80°f); in June, the mean daily temperature is 25°c (77°f). Rainfall averages 287 centimeters (113 inches) annually, and the average relative humidity is 83%.

4 Plants and Animals

Lush vegetation covers much of the land. Along the coast there are mangrove forests, hibiscus, and strand vegetation that is commonly found throughout the Pacific. Inland and at higher elevations, the rain forests contain trees and lianas of many genera and species. The higher elevations of Savai’i contain moss forest and mountain scrub.

Some 50 bird species, 16 of which are sea-birds, are found; many of them visit Samoa only during the breeding season. Of the 34 species of land birds, 16 are indigenous (native) to Samoa. The most interesting bird is the tooth-billed.

The only indigenous mammals in Samoa are the rat and the flying fox. Two species of snakes, several different lizards, and the gecko are found. Insect life includes many species of moths, beetles, spiders, and ants.

5 Environment

Samoa’s environmental problems include soil erosion, damage to the nation’s forests, and the need for protection of its wildlife. The lack of adequate sewage disposal facilities threatens the nation’s marine habitats. Samoa’s water supply is too small to support its current population.

According to a 2006 report, threatened species included three types of mammals, seven species of birds, four species of fish, and two species of plants. Threatened species included the humpbacked whale, hawksbill turtle, Samoan moorhen, and Samoan flying fox.

6 Population

The population of Samoa in 2005 was estimated at 188,000. The population density was 65 persons per square kilometer (168 per square mile) in 2005. The population projection for 2025 was 193,000. Apia, the capital and only major town, had a population of 40,000 in 2005.

7 Migration

Emigration consists mainly of students going to New Zealand to continue their education and Samoans seeking work there. In addition, several thousand Samoans live in American Samoa and other parts of the United States. The estimated net migration rate in 2005 was -11.73 migrants per 1,000 population.

8 Ethnic Groups

Samoans comprise 92.6% of the total population. The Samoans are the second-largest branch of the Polynesians. Most of the remaining population is of mixed Samoan and European or Asian descent. Euronesians (persons of European and Polynesian descent) make up 7% of the total, while Europeans constitute 0.4%.

9 Languages

Samoan is the universal language, but both Samoan and English are official. Some Chinese is also spoken. Most of the part-Samoans and many others speak English, which is taught in the schools.

10 Religions

More than 99% of Samoans profess some form of Christianity. The Congregational Christian Church of Western Samoa is the largest religious body in the country, with a membership of about 34.8% of the population. The Roman Catholic (19.6%) and Methodist faiths (15%) also have large followings. The Mormon (12.7%) and Seventh-day Adventist (3.5%) churches, as well as the Baha’is, Muslims, and a number of other denominations have smaller congregations located in various parts of the country.

11 Transportation

The road system in 2002 totaled 836 kilometers (519 miles), of which 267 kilometers (166 miles) were paved. In 2003, there were 6,400

passenger cars and 6,700 commercial vehicles. Diesel-powered launches carry passengers and freight around the islands, and small motor vessels maintain services between Apia and Pago Pago in American Samoa.

Apia is the principal port. Polynesian Airlines provides daily air service to and from Pago Pago and regularly scheduled flights to other Pacific destinations. Faleolo Airport, 35 kilometers (22 miles) west of Apia, is the principal air terminal. In 2001 (the latest year for which data was available), 173,500 passengers were carried on scheduled domestic and international flights.

12 History

The western world knew little about Samoa until after the arrival of the missionary John Williams in 1830. Representatives of Great Britain and the United States were soon stationed in Apia. Between 1847 and 1861, the United States appointed a commercial agent, and Britain and the city of Hamburg, Germany, appointed consuls.

British, American, and German consular agents aligned themselves with various feuding tribal chiefs until the resulting tension and intrigues led to civil war in 1889. Britain, the United States, and Germany set up a neutral government under King Malietoa Laupepea. After the king’s death in 1898 the three powers intervened once again and abolished the kingship. In 1900, Samoa became a German protectorate. With the outbreak of World War I (1914–18), New Zealand military forces occupied Samoa, and from 1919 to 1946, New Zealand administered the islands under a mandate of the League of Nations.

Between 1927 and 1936, a nationalistic organization known as the Mau embarked on a program of civil disobedience. In 1946, the United Nations General Assembly and New Zealand began a process leading toward ultimate self-government of Samoa. On 1 January 1962, Samoa became an independent nation under the name of Western Samoa. Upon independence, Fiame Faumuina Mataafa was Western Samoa’s first prime minister (1962–70) and served again in that post from 1973 until his death in 1975.

During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Western Samoa suffered from a worsening economy and growing political and social unrest. A divisive public-sector strike from 6 April to 2 July 1981 cut many essential services to a critical level. Controversy erupted in August 1982 over a protocol signed by New Zealand and the Western Samoan government’s Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP); the agreement reduced the right of Samoans to New Zealand citizenship. Va’ai Kolone became prime minister in January 1986 as head of a new coalition government. In 1991, Western Samoa held the first elections in which all its adult citizens were permitted to vote. The HRPP kept the majority.

In July 1997, the country officially changed its name from Western Samoa to Samoa following a June vote by the legislative assembly. Tofilau Eti resigned due to poor health in November 1998 and died in March 1999 at the age of 74. He was succeeded by deputy prime minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, who began his second term in 2001 and his third term in 2006.

In June 2002, New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark issued an apology to Samoans for injustices inflicted upon them during colonial times.

In the early 2000s, Samoa was facing economic problems, one of which was declining fish catches. In 2005, doctors on the island went on strike over higher wages and better working conditions. In December 2005, talks over Samoa joining the World Trade Organization were ongoing, following initial application in 1998.

13 Government

The powers and functions of the head of state are far-reaching. All legislation must have his or her assent before it becomes law. The prime minister also has power to grant pardons and reprieves and to suspend or commute any sentence by any court. The 49-member Fono (parliament) consists of 47 members elected by voters in traditional village-based electoral districts. Only chiefs can run for seats in parliament from the village-based districts. Two members are elected by independent voters. Members serve five-year terms in the parliament. Local government is carried out by the village fono, or council.

14 Political Parties

Political parties are becoming increasingly important. In 1979 the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) was founded as an opposition party to the government of Prime Minister Tupuola Efi. Other political parties that took part in the March 2006 general election were the Samoa Christian Party (TCP), the Samoa Democratic United Party (SDUP), the Samoa Party (SP), and the Samoa Progressive Political Party (SPPP).

15 Judicial System

The Supreme Court has full civil and criminal jurisdiction for the administration of justice in Samoa. The Court of Appeal consists of three judges who may be judges of the Supreme Court. Magistrates’ courts are subordinate courts with varying degrees of authority.

The Land and Titles Court has jurisdiction in disputes over Samoan land and succession to Samoan titles. Some civil and criminal matters are handled by village traditional courts, which apply a very different procedure than that used in the official Western-style courts.

BIOGRAPHICAL PROFILE

Name: Sailele Malielegaoi Tuilaepa

Position: Prime minister of a constitutional monarchy under native chief

Took Office: 24 November 1998, elected to third term April 2006

Birthplace: Lepa Village, Samoa

Birthdate: 1945

Education: Marist Brothers’ St. Joseph’s College, Samoa; St. Paul’s College, Auckland, New Zealand; University of Auckland, bachelor and master of commerce degrees, specialization in accounting and economics

Children: Several children

Of interest: When Malielegaoi became prime minister, media attention focused on the sacrifices his family made for his education. He is the first Samoan to earn a master’s degree.

16 Armed Forces

Samoa has no armed forces, but does have a police force to provide internal security.

17 Economy

Although agriculture employed the majority of Samoa’s labor force, services accounted for the largest portion of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). In addition, tourist revenues and earnings by overseas workers are important sources of foreign exchange. Economic performance has suffered since 1990 due to the devastation to crops and tourism caused by two cyclones, Ofa and Val. In 1994, a fungus destroyed 97% of the taro crop and damaged the economy. Samoa’s leaders have been looking toward tourism as a way to generate economic growth. A new airline, Polynesian Blue, operating between Samoa, Australia, and New Zealand, was seen as a key strategic component in the development of tourism.

In 2005, agriculture accounted for an estimated 11% of Samoa’s GDP, with industry accounting for 59%, and services 30%.

18 Income

In 2002 Samoa’s gross domestic product (GDP) was estimated at $1 billion, or about $5,600 per person. The annual growth rate of GDP that same year was estimated at 5%; after a dip to 3% in 2003, the economy recovered slightly. Growth was 5% in 2004 and 5.6% in 2005. In 2005, the average inflation rate was 3.3%.

19 Industry

Industries include food- and timber-processing facilities, a brewery, cigarette and match factories, and small individual enterprises for processing coffee and for manufacturing curios, soap, carbonated drinks, light metal products, garments, footwear, and other consumer products.

20 Labor

No Samoan is entirely dependent on wages for sustenance; all share in the products of their family lands and can always return to them. Agriculture, forestry, and fishing account for 65% of wage employment. Over the years, thousands of skilled and semiskilled Samoans have left the islands, mainly drawn away by better economic opportunities in New Zealand, Australia, and the United States. In 2000 there were approximately 90,000 workers in Samoa.

The minimum hourly wage was $0.47 in 2001. Children may not work before reaching the age of 15. This law does not apply to service rendered to the matai, or female heads of families, who sometimes require children to work on village farms. Moreover, increasing numbers of children work as street vendors in Apia.

21 Agriculture

Tropical agriculture occupies 45% of the land area, employs about 65% of the labor force, but only made up about 11% of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2005. Coconut products, cocoa, taro, and bananas are the main crops. In 2004, coconut production was estimated at 140,000 tons. Taro (coco yam) production amounted to 17,000 tons. Exports of agricultural products in 2004 amounted to $5.6 million, while agricultural imports totaled $40.6 million that same year.

Yearly Growth Rate

This economic indicator tells by what percent the economy has increased or decreased when compared with the previous year.

22 Domesticated Animals

Pigs and cattle form the bulk of the livestock. In 2005, pigs, which are common in the villages, were estimated to number 201,000 and cattle 29,000. A small number of cattle are kept for milk, while the rest are raised for beef. Other livestock in that same year included an estimated 7,000 donkeys and 1,800 horses. Meat production in 2005 was 5,140 tons, of which 74% was pork.

Components of the Economy

This pie chart shows how much of the country’s economy is devoted to agriculture (including forestry, hunting, and fishing), industry, or services.

23 Fishing

Most fishing is conducted along the reefs and coasts. Deep-sea fishing, except for bonito and shark, is not developed. A fish market and wharf that was built with Japanese aid is located in Apia. In 2003, the total catch was 10,267 tons, with tuna comprising about 40%.

24 Forestry

The nation’s forest area is estimated at 105,000 hectares (259,000 acres). Reforestation projects are concentrated on Savaii, which accounts for 80% of the nation’s forest area. A large-scale timber milling enterprise produces kiln-dried sawn timber and veneer sheets for export. Roundwood production in 2004 was 131,000 cubic meters (4.6 million cubic feet), with 53% used as fuel wood.

25 Mining

No minerals of commercial value are known to exist in Samoa.

Yearly Balance of Trade

The balance of trade is the difference between what a country sells to other countries (its exports) and what it buys (its imports). If a country imports more than it exports, it has a negative balance of trade (a trade deficit). If exports exceed imports there is a positive balance of trade (a trade surplus).

26 Foreign Trade

Imports consist chiefly of food, fuels and chemicals, machinery, transportation equipment, and other manufactured articles. The principal exports are taro, coconut cream, fish, copra (dried coconut meat), garments, and beer. Samoa imports more than it exports. In 2004, Samoan exports were valued at $94 million, while imports that year were put at $285 million.

Samoa exports primarily to Australia, which accounted for 67.2% of the country’s exports, followed by the United States at 5.7%, and Indonesia at 5.3%. Imports originated mainly from New Zealand (25.1%), followed by Fiji (21.5%), Taiwan (9.1%), and Australia (8.9%).

Selected Social Indicators

The statistics below are the most recent estimates available as of 2006. For comparison purposes, data for the United States and averages for low-income countries and high-income countries are also given. About 15% of the world’s 6.5 billion people live in high-income countries, while 37% live in low-income countries.

IndicatorSamoaLow-income countriesHigh-income countriesUnited States
sources: World Bank. World Development Indicators. Washington, D.C.: The World Bank, 2006; Central Intelligence Agency. The World Factbook. Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office, 2006; World Resources Institute, Washington, D.C.
Per capita gross national income (GNI)*$5,610$2,258$31,009$39,820
Population growth rate-0.2%2%0.8%1.2%
People per square kilometer of land65803032
Life expectancy in years: male68587675
female74608280
Number of physicians per 1,000 people0.70.43.72.3
Number of pupils per teacher (primary school)n.a.431615
Literacy rate (15 years and older)99%65%>95%99%
Television sets per 1,000 people14884735938
Internet users per 1,000 people3328538630
Energy consumed per capita (kg of oil equivalent)n.a.5015,4107,843
CO2 emissions per capita (metric tons)0.790.8512.9719.92
* The GNI is the total of all goods and services produced by the residents of a country in a year. The per capita GNI is calculated by dividing a country’s GNI by its population and adjusting for relative purchasing power.
n.a.: data not available >: greater than <: less than

27 Energy and Power

Samoa has depended heavily on imported energy, but hydroelectric power has greatly increased its generating capacity. Electricity production totaled 0.1 billion kilowatt-hours in 2002, of which 50.5% came from fossil fuels and 49.5% from hydropower.

28 Social Development

A social security system provides for employee retirement pensions, disability benefits, and death benefits. Workers’ compensation is compulsory.

In Samoan society, obligations to the aiga (extended family) are often given precedence over individual rights. While there is some discrimination against women, they can play an important role in society, especially female matai (heads of families).

29 Health

In 2004, there were an estimated 70 physicians, 202 nurses, and 18 dentists per 100,000 people. District nurses are stationed at strategic points throughout the islands. Diabetic retinopathy is common in Polynesian Samoans. The increase in diabetes in recent decades is linked to the Westernization of the Samoan diet. The life expectancy was estimated at 68 years for men and 74 years for women as of 2005. In that same year, the infant mortality rate was 27.71 per 1,000 births.

Many Samoans live in traditional houses called fales. A fale is usually round or oval, with pebble floors and a thatched roof. It has no walls and the rood is supported on the sides by posts. Coconut-leaf blinds can be lowered to keep out wind and rain. A popular Samoan-European type of dwelling is an oblong concrete house with some walls, often with separate rooms in each corner; like the fale, it is open at the sides.

More modern housing has been constructed since about the 1990s. Solid wall structures with concrete foundations and iron roofs have been built to withstand the natural elements of harsh wind, rain, and cyclones.

In 2001, there were about 23,059 households in Samoa, with an average of 8 people per household.

31 Education

Village schools provide four years of primary schooling. District schools draw the brighter pupils from village schools and educate them through the upper primary level. In 2003, primary school enrolment was estimated at 98% of all age-eligible students, while secondary school enrollment that same year was about 62% of age-eligible students.

Samoa was one of the founders of the regional University of the South Pacific. The National University was established in 1984. Other institutions include the College of Tropical Agriculture and a Trades Training College. As of 2004, the adult literacy rate was estimated at about 99%.

32 Media

In 2002 there were 11,800 mainline telephones, and 2,700 mobile phones in use nationwide. As of 2004 there were five private radio stations and two television stations available, one of which was government-owned. In addition, a satellite cable television system was available in parts of Apia. In 2004 there were 148 television sets in use per 1,000 people. In 2002, there were 4,000 Internet subscribers; by 2005, 33 of every 1,000 people had access to the Internet.

There are several bilingual weeklies, including the Samoa Weekly and Savali, which is published in Samoan and English. There is one daily, Samoan Times.

33 Tourism and Recreation

Since 1966, the government has encouraged tourism. The major tourist attractions are the beaches and traditional villages. In 2003, there were 92,313 tourist arrivals. There were 939 hotel rooms, with 2,131 beds.

The head of state lives on the island of Apia. Apia was once the home of author Robert Louis Stevenson, and his grave is found there. Pastimes include swimming, water skiing, and fishing. Soccer and cricket are popular local sports.

34 Famous Samoans

The Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–1894) lived principally on one of the tiny islands of Samoa, and on Apia, from 1889 until his death. Samoans famous since independence include Malietoa Tanumafili II (1913–), who was named head of state in 1962, and Fiame Faumuina Mataafa (d. 1975), who served as prime minister from 1962 to 1970 and again from 1973 until his death. Tofilau Eti (b. American Samoa, 1925? –1999) was prime minister from 1982 to 1985, when he resigned and was succeeded by Va’ai Kolone, who held the office until 1991. That year, Eti again assumed the prime minister post. In 1998, he was succeeded by Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi (1945–).

35 Bibliography

BOOKS

Field, Michael. Mau: Samoa’s Struggle for Freedom. Auckland, New Zealand: Polynesian Press, 1991.

Hughes, H. G. A. Samoa: American Samoa, Western Samoa, Samoans Abroad. Santa Barbara, CA: Clio Press, 1997.

Talbot, Dorinda. Samoa. Hawthorn, Victoria, Australia: Lonely Planet, 1998.

WEB SITES

Commonwealth Country Profiles. www.thecommonwealth.org/Templates/YearbookHomeInternal.asp?NodeID=139139. (accessed on January 15, 2007).

Country Pages. www.state.gov/p/eap/ci/ws/. (accessed on January 15, 2007).

Government Home Page. www.govt.ws/. (accessed on January 15, 2007).

Samoa

views updated May 17 2018

SAMOA

Compiled from the November 2003 Background Note and supplemented with additional information from the State Department and the editors of this volume. See the introduction to this set for explanatory notes.


Official Name:
Independent State of Samoa


PROFILE
GEOGRAPHY AND PEOPLE
HISTORY
GOVERNMENT
POLITICAL CONDITIONS
ECONOMY
FOREIGN RELATIONS
TRAVEL


PROFILE


Geography

Area: 2,934 sq. km. (1,133 sq. mi.) in two main islands plus seven smaller ones.

Cities: Capital (pop. 34,000)—Apia.

Terrain: Mountainous with narrow coastal plain.

Climate: Tropical.


People

Nationality: Noun and adjective—Samoan.

Population: (July 2003 est.) 178,173. Age structure—29.4% under 15; 6.1% over 65.

Growth rate: -0.27% (mainly due to emigration).

Ethnic groups: Samoan 92.6%, Euronesian (mixed European and Polynesian) 7%, European 0.4%.

Religion: Christian 99.7%.

Languages: Samoan, English.

Education: Literacy—99.7%.

Health: Life expectancy—male 67.35 yrs.; female 73 yrs. Infant mortality rate—29.73/1,000.

Work force: Agriculture—64%; services—30%.


Government

Type: Mix of parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy.

Independence: (from New Zealand-administered UN trusteeship) January 1, 1962.

Constitution: January 1, 1962.

Branches: Executive—head of state (incumbent serves for life; successors will be elected), prime minister (head of government), cabinet. Legislative—unicameral parliament (Fono). Judicial—Supreme Court and supporting hierarchy.

Major political parties: Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP), Samoan National Development Party (SNDP).


Economy

GDP: $238.06 million.

GDP per capita: (nominal) $1,400.

GDP composition by sector: Services 56%, industry 27%, agriculture 17%.

Industry: Types—tourism, coconuts, small scale manufacturing, fishing.

Trade: Exports—$15.9 million: coconut products, fish, (processing of automotive components). Export markets—New Zealand, Australia, U.S. (includes American Samoa). Imports—$30.3 million: food and beverages, industrial supplies. Import sources—New Zealand, Australia, U.S. ($4.73 million), Fiji.

External debt: $151.5 million (90% is owed to multilateral lenders).

Currency: tala (or Samoan dollar).


GEOGRAPHY AND PEOPLE

Samoa consists of the two large islands of Upolu and Savai'i and seven small islets located about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand in the Polynesian region of the South Pacific. The main island of Upolu is home to nearly three-quarters of Samoa's population and its capital city of Apia. The climate is tropical, with a rainy season from November to April.


The Fa'a Samoa, or traditional Samoan way, remains a strong force in Samoan life and politics. Despite centuries of European influence, Samoa maintains its historical customs, social systems, and language, which is believed to be the oldest form of Polynesian speech still in existence. Only the Maoris of New Zealand outnumber the Samoans among Polynesian groups.



HISTORY

Migrants from Southeast Asia arrived in the Samoan islands more than 2,000 years ago and from there settled the rest of Polynesia further to the east. Contact with Europeans began in the early 1700s but did not intensify until the arrival of English missionaries and traders in the 1830s. At the turn of the 20th century, the Samoan islands were split into two sections. The eastern islands became territories of the United States in 1904 and today are known as American Samoa. The western islands became known as Western Samoa (now just Samoa), passing from German control to New Zealand in 1914. New Zealand administered Western Samoa under the auspices of the League of Nations and then as a UN trusteeship until independence in 1962. Western Samoa was the first Pacific Island country to gain its independence.


In July 1997 the Constitution was amended to change the country's name from Western Samoa to Samoa. Samoa had been known simply as Samoa in the United Nations since joining the organization in 1976. The neighboring U.S. territory of American Samoa protested the move, feeling that the change diminished its own Samoan identity. American Samoans still use the terms Western Samoa and Western Samoans.



GOVERNMENT

The 1960 Constitution, which formally came into force with independence, is based on the British pattern of parliamentary democracy, modified to take account of Samoan customs. Samoa's two high chiefs at the time of independence were given lifetime appointments to jointly hold the office of head of state. Malietoa Tanumafili II has held this post alone since the death of his colleague in 1963. His eventual successor will be selected by the legislature for a 5-year term.


The unicameral legislature (Fono) contains 49 members serving 5-year terms. Forty-seven are elected from territorial districts by ethnic Samoans districts; the other two are chosen by non-Samoans on separate electoral rolls. Universal suffrage was extended in 1990, but only chiefs (matai) may stand for election to the Samoan seats. There are more than 25,000 matais in the country, about 5% of whom are women. The prime minister is chosen by a majority in the Fono and is appointed by the chief of state to form a government. The prime minister's choices for the 12 cabinet positions are appointed by the chief of state, subject to the continuing confidence of the Fono.

The judicial system is based on English common law and local customs. The Supreme Court is the court of highest jurisdiction. Its chief justice is appointed by the chief of state upon the recommendation of the prime minister.


Principal Government Officials
Last Updated: 2/5/04


Head of State: Malietoa, Tanumafili II

Prime Minister: Tuila'epa, Sailele Malielegaoi

Deputy Prime Minister: Misa, Telefoni Retzlaff

Min. of Agriculture: Tuisugaletaua, Sofara Aveau

Min. of Commerce, Industry, & Labor: Hans, Joachim

Min. of Communication & Information Technology: Palusalue, Faapo

Min. of Education, Sports, & Culture: Fiame, Naomi Mata'afa

Min. of Foreign Affairs: Tuila'epa, Sailele Malielegaoi

Min. of Health: Mulitalo, Siafausa Vui

Min. of Justice & Courts Admin.:

Min. of Natural Resources & Environment: Tagaloa, Sale Tagaloa

Min. of Police: Ulu, Vaomalo Kini

Min. of Revenue: Gaina, Tino

Min. of Women, Community, & Social Development: Tuala, Ainiu Iusitino

Min. of Works, Transport, & Infrastructure: Faumuina, Liuga

Attorney General: Heather, Brenda

Governor, Central Bank: Scanlan, Papali'i Tommy

Ambassador to the US: Aliioaiga, Feturi Elisaia

Permanent Representative to the UN, New York: Aliioaiga, Feturi Elisaia



Samoa maintains its diplomatic representation in the United States at 800 2nd Avenue, Suite 400D, New York, NY 10017; tel: 212-599-6196.


POLITICAL CONDITIONS

Since 1982 the majority party in the Fono has been the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP). HRPP leader Tofilau Eti Alesana served as prime minister for nearly all of the period between 1982 and 1998, when he resigned due to health reasons. Tofilau Eti was replaced by his deputy, Tuila'epa Sailele Malielegaoi.


Parliamentary elections were held in March 2001. The Human Rights Protection Party, led by Tuila'epa Sailele Malielegaoi, won 30 of the 49 seats in the current Fono. The Samoa National Development Party, led by Le Mamea Ropati, is the main opposition. Other political parties are the Samoan Progressive Conservative Party, the Samoa All Peoples Party, and the Samoa Liberal Party.



ECONOMY

The Samoan economy is dependent on agricultural exports, tourism, and capital flows from abroad. The effects of three natural disasters in the early 1990s were overcome by the middle of the decade, but economic growth cooled again with the regional economic downturn. Long-run development depends upon upgrading the tourist infrastructure, attracting foreign investment, and further diversification of the economy.


Two major cyclones hit Samoa at the beginning of the 1990s. Cyclone Of a left an estimated 10,000 islanders homeless in February 1990; Cyclone Val caused 13 deaths and hundreds of millions of dollars in damage in December 1991. As a result, GDP declined by nearly 50% from 1989 to 1991. These experiences and Samoa's position as a low-lying island state punctuate its concern about global climate change.


Further economic problems occurred in 1994 with an outbreak of taro leaf blight and the near collapse of the national airline Polynesian Airlines. Taro, a root crop, traditionally was
Samoa's largest export, generating more than half of all export revenue in 1993. But a fungal blight decimated the plants, and in each year since 1994 taro exports have accounted for less than 1% of export revenue. Polynesian Airlines reached a financial crisis in 1994, which disrupted the tourist industry and eventually required a government bailout.


The government responded to these shocks with a major program of road building and post-cyclone infrastructure repair. Economic reforms were stepped up, including the liberalization of exchange controls. GDP growth rebounded to over 6% in both 1995 and 1996 before slowing again at the end of the decade.


The service sector accounts for more than half of GDP and employs approximately 30% of the labor force. Tourism is the largest-single activity, more than doubling in visitor numbers and revenue over the last decade. More than 85,000 visitors came to Samoa in 1999, contributing over $12 million to the local economy. One-third came from American Samoa, 28% from New Zealand, and 11% from the United States. Arrivals increased in 2000, as visitors to the South Pacific avoided the political strife in Fiji by traveling to Samoa instead.

The primary sector (agriculture, forestry, and fishing) employs nearly two-thirds of the labor force and produces 17% of GDP. Important products include coconuts and fish.


Industry accounts for over one-quarter of GDP while employing less than 6% of the work force. The largest industrial venture is Yazaki Samoa, a Japanese-owned company processing automotive components for export to Australia under a concessional market-access arrangement. The Yazaki plant employs more than 2,000 workers and makes up over 20% of the manufacturing sector's total output. Net receipts amount to between $1.5 million and $3.03 million annually, although shipments from Yazaki are counted as services (export processing) and therefore do not officially appear as merchandise exports.


New Zealand is Samoa's principal trading partner, typically providing between 35% and 40% of imports and purchasing 45%-50% of exports. Australia, American Samoa, the U.S., and Fiji also are important trading partners. Samoa's principal exports are coconut products and fish. Its main imports are food and beverages, industrial supplies, and fuels.

The collapse of taro exports in 1994 has had the unintended effect of modestly diversifying Samoa's export products and markets. Prior to the taro leaf blight, Samoa's exports consisted of taro ($1.1 million), coconut cream ($540,000), and "other" ($350,000). Ninety percent of exports went to the Pacific region, and only 1% went to Europe. Forced to look for alternatives to taro, Samoa's exporters have dramatically increased the production of copra, coconut oil, and fish. These three products, which combined to produce export revenue of less than $100,000 in 1993, now account for over $3.8 million. There also has been a relative shift from Pacific markets to European ones, which now receive nearly 15% of Samoa's exports. Samoa's exports are still concentrated in coconut products ($2.36 million worth of copra, copra meal, coconut oil, and coconut cream) and fish ($1.51 million) but are at least somewhat more diverse than before.


Samoa annually receives important financial assistance from abroad. The more than 100,000 Samoans who live overseas provide two sources of revenue. Their direct remittances have amounted to $12.1 million per year recently, and they account for more than half of all tourist visits. In addition to the expatriate community, Samoa also receives roughly $7.57 million annually in official development assistance from sources led by Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. These three sources of revenue—tourism, private transfers, and official transfers—allow Samoa to cover its persistently large trade deficit.



FOREIGN RELATIONS

The Samoan Government is generally conservative and pro-Western, with a strong interest in regional political and economic issues. At independence in 1962, Samoa signed a Treaty of Friendship with New Zealand. This treaty confirms the special relationship between the two countries and provides a framework for their interaction. Under the terms of the treaty, Samoa can request that New Zealand act as a channel of communication to governments and international organizations outside the immediate area of the Pacific islands. Samoa also can request defense assistance, which New Zealand is required to consider (Samoa does not maintain a formal military). Overall Samoa has strong links with New Zealand, where many Samoans now live and many others were educated.


The Samoan Government was an outspoken critic of the French decision to resume nuclear weapons testing in the South Pacific in 1995. An indefinite ban was placed on visits to Samoa by French warships and aircraft. Largescale street demonstrations were held in Apia. The French tests concluded in early 1996.


Samoa participated in a first round of negotiations with its Pacific Island neighbors for a regional trade agreement in August 2000.


Principal U.S. Embassy Officials

Apia (E), P.O. Box 3430, Apia, Tel [685] 21-631, after-hours Tel 23-617, Fax 22-030. Mobile Tel [685] 7-1776. E-mail: [email protected]

AMB:Charles J. Swindells (res. Wellington)
CHG:Joe Murphy
RSO:William E. Leverett (res. Wellington)
DAO:CAPT J. Jeffrey Langer, USN (res. Wellington)
FAA:Chris Metts (res. Tokyo)
RMO:Charles E. Wright (res. Jakarta)



Last Modified: Monday, December 15, 2003


TRAVEL


Consular Information Sheet
August 14, 2003


Country Description: Samoa consists of the two large islands of Upolu and Savai'i and seven small islets. The country has a stable parliamentary democracy with a developing economy. Tourist facilities are accessible by bus, taxi, and car and are within walking distance of access roads. Infrastructure is adequate in Apia, the capital, but it is limited in other areas. The Samoan Visitor's Bureau, which has a wide range of information of interest to travelers, can be contacted at www.samoa.co.nz.


Entry and Exit Requirements: A passport and an onward/return ticket are required for travel to Samoa. Visas are not required for a stay of up to 30 days. There is a $10.00 (USD) departure tax that all visitors are required to pay upon departure from the country. Further in formation about entry requirements may be obtained from the Samoa Mission to the United Nations at 800 2nd Avenue, Suite 400J, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 599-6196, fax (212) 599-6196.


In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.


Safety and Security: In Apia and many villages, packs of stray dogs wander the streets. Visitors should not approach or feed them, for they become aggressive in the presence of food and/or if they feel threatened.


Although there have been no major accidents involving the ferry service linking Upolu and Savai'i, vessels are sometimes overloaded. One of the ferries, a multi-deck automobile ferry, sometimes transports passengers on its automobile deck. Americans who choose to use this ferry are encouraged not to remain in the automobile deck during the crossing and to ride only in the passenger compartment in order to avoid injury from shifting vehicles.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet website at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found.


The Overseas Citizens Services call center at 1-888-407-4747 can answer general inquiries on safety and security overseas. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, may obtain information and assistance during these hours by calling 1-317-472-2328.


Crime Information: Overall, Samoa is considered a low threat environment. Nevertheless, visitors should remain aware of their surroundings, lock their doors at night, and not leave their belongings unattended. Although violent crimes involving foreign visitors are rare, incidents of petty theft/robberies of personal effects are fairly common.


The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.


U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet, A Safe Trip Abroad, for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D. C. 20402, via the Internet at www.gpoaccess.gov, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.


Medical Facilities: Health care facilities in Samoa are adequate for routine medical treatment, but are limited in range and availability. The national hospital and a small private hospital are located in Apia, and there are several small district hospitals on Savai'i and in outlying areas of Upolu. Serious medical conditions and treatments that require hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost thousands of dollars. Travelers should carry emergency evacuation insurance. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.


Medical Insurance: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas including emergency services such as medical evacuations.


When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the U.S. may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.


Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure, Medical Information for Americans Travelling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page or autofax: (202) 647-3000.


Other Health Information: There is no reported incidence of malaria or rabies in Samoa. Occasional outbreaks of typhoid and non-hemorrhagic dengue do occur. Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC's website at www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's website at www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at www.who.int/ith.


Traffic Safety and Road Conditions: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Samoa is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance:


Safety of Public Transportation: Fair
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Good
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Fair
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Not Available


Most major roads are tar-sealed, but secondary roads are predominantly dirt and gravel and may be overgrown with vegetation. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for travel on these roads. Travelers should be aware that vehicle safety regulations are rarely enforced and traffic violations occur routinely. Night driving on unlit rural roads can be dangerous and should be avoided if possible.


For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, home page at http://travel.state.gov/road_safety.html. For specific information concerning Samoa driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, contact the Samoa Visitors Bureau at P.O Box 2272 Apia, Samoa; telephone (685) 63500, fax (685) 20886, email [email protected]. You may wish to consult the website: www.visitsamoa.ws.


Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Samoa's Civil Aviation Authority as Category 1 – in compliance with international aviation safety standards for oversight of Samoa's air carrier operations. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet website at www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/.


The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact DOD at (618) 229-4801.


Customs Regulations: Samoa customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Samoa of items such as firearms, fruits, pets and drugs. It is advisable to contact the Samoan Mission to the United Nations at 800 2nd Avenue, Suite 400J, New York, New York, 10017, telephone (212) 599-6196 for specific information regarding customs requirements.


Criminal Penalties: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Samoa's laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Samoa are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.


Special Circumstances: Some overseas treatment centers, known as Behavior Modification Facilities, operate in Samoa. Though these facilities may be operated and staffed by U.S. citizens, the Samoan government is solely responsible for compliance with local safety, health, sanitation and educational laws and regulations, including all licensing requirements of the staff in country. These standards, if any, may not be strictly enforced or meet the standards of similar facilities in the U.S. Parents should be aware that U.S. citizens 14 years of age and older have a right to apply for a passport and to request repatriation assistance from the U.S. government, both without parental consent. Any U.S. citizen enrollee has the right to contact a representative from the U.S. Embassy. For further information, consult the Department of State's Fact Sheet on Behavior Modification Facilities, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov. Parents may also contact the U.S. Embassy in Apia or the country officer in the Office of American Citizens Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs at 202-647-5226.

Disaster Preparedness: Samoa is located in an area of high seismic activity. Although the probability of a major earthquake occurring during an individual trip is remote, earthquakes can and will continue to happen. Major cyclones have occurred in the past and are always a concern. Strong winds are very common especially during the rainy season from November to April. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) website www.fema.gov/.


Children's Issues: Samoa is not a member of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, please refer to our Internet site at http://travel.state.gov/children's_issues.html or telephone the Overseas Citizens Services call center which can answer general inquiries regarding international adoptions and will forward calls to the appropriate country officer in the Bureau of Consular Affairs.

Registration/Embassy Location: Americans living in or visiting Samoa are encouraged to register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Samoa and obtain updated information on travel and security within Samoa. The U.S. Embassy is located in the Accident Compensation Board (ACB) Building, Fifth Floor, Apia. The Embassy is open to the public from 9:30am to 12:30p.m. Monday-Friday and by appointment at other times. The Embassy's mailing address is U.S. Embassy, P.O Box 3430, Apia, Samoa. The telephone numbers are (685) 21631/22696. The fax number is


(685) 22030. An Embassy officer can be reached after hours in an emergency involving the welfare of an American citizen at (685)-71776. The email address is [email protected]. Americans may obtain updated information on travel and security for Samoa from the U.S. Embassy..

Samoa

views updated May 23 2018

SAMOA

Compiled from the November 2005 Background Note and supplemented with additional information from the State Department and the editors of this volume. See the introduction to this set for explanatory notes.

Official Name:
Independent State of Samoa


PROFILE

Geography

Area:

2,934 sq. km. (1,133 sq. mi.) in two main islands plus seven smaller ones.

Cities:

Capital (pop. 34,000)—Apia.

Terrain:

Mountainous with narrow coastal plain.

Climate:

Tropical.

People

Nationality:

Noun and adjective—Samoan.

Population (July 2004 est.):

177,714. Age structure—28.3% under 15; 6.3% over 65.

Growth rate:

−0.25% (mainly due to emigration).

Ethnic groups:

Samoan 92.6%, Euronesian (mixed European and Polynesian) 7%, European 0.4%.

Religion:

Christian 99.7%.

Language:

Samoan, English.

Education:

Literacy—99.7%.

Health:

Life expectancy—male 67.64 yrs.; female 73.33 yrs. Infant mortality rate—29.72/1,000.

Work force:

Agriculture—64%; services—30%.

Government

Type:

Mix of parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy.

Independence (from New Zealand-administered UN trusteeship):

January 1, 1962.

Constitution:

January 1, 1962.

Branches:

Executive—head of state (incumbent serves for life; successors will be elected), prime minister (head of government), cabinet. Legislative—unicameral parliament (Fono). Judicial—Supreme Court and supporting hierarchy.

Major political parties:

Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP), Samoa Democratic United Party (SDUP), and Samoa Party (SP).

Economy

GDP:

$284.3. million.

GDP per capita (nominal):

$1,600.

GDP composition by sector:

Services 59%, industry 28%, agriculture 14%.

Industry:

Types—tourism, coconuts, small scale manufacturing, fishing.

Trade:

Exports—$15.9 million: coconut products, fish, (processing of automotive components). Export markets—New Zealand, Australia, U.S. (includes American Samoa). Imports—$30.3 million: food and beverages, industrial supplies. Import sources—New Zealand, Australia, U.S. ($4.73 million), Fiji.

External debt:

$151.5 million (90% is owed to multilateral lenders).

Currency:

tala (or Samoan dollar).


GEOGRAPHY AND PEOPLE

Samoa consists of the two large islands of Upolu and Savai'i and seven small islets located about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand in the Polynesian region of the South Pacific. The main island of Upolu is home to nearly three-quarters of Samoa's population and its capital city of Apia. The climate is tropical, with a rainy season from November to April.

The Fa'a Samoa, or traditional Samoan way, remains a strong force in Samoan life and politics. Despite centuries of European influence, Samoa maintains its historical customs, social systems, and language, which is believed to be the oldest form of Polynesian speech still in existence. Only the Maoris of New Zealand outnumber the Samoans among Polynesian groups.


HISTORY

Migrants from Southeast Asia arrived in the Samoan islands more than 2,000 years ago and from there settled the rest of Polynesia further to the east. Contact with Europeans began in the early 1700s but did not intensify until the arrival of English missionaries and traders in the 1830s. At the turn of the 20th century, the Samoan islands were split into two sections. The eastern islands became territories of the United States in 1904 and today are known as American Samoa. The western islands became known as Western Samoa (now just Samoa), passing from German control to New Zealand in 1914. New Zealand administered Western Samoa under the auspices of the League of Nations and then as a UN trusteeship until independence in 1962. Western Samoa was the first Pacific Island country to gain its independence.

In July 1997 the Constitution was amended to change the country's name from Western Samoa to Samoa. Samoa had been known simply as Samoa in the United Nations since joining the organization in 1976. The neighboring U.S. territory of American Samoa protested the move, feeling that the change diminished its own Samoan identity. American Samoans still use the terms Western Samoa and Western Samoans.


GOVERNMENT

The 1960 Constitution, which formally came into force with independence, is based on the British pattern of parliamentary democracy, modified to take account of Samoan customs. Samoa's two high chiefs at the time of independence were given lifetime appointments to jointly hold the office of head of state. Malietoa Tanumafili II has held this post alone since the death of his colleague in 1963. His eventual successor will be selected by the legislature for a 5-year term.

The unicameral legislature (Fono) contains 49 members serving 5-year terms. Forty-seven are elected from territorial districts by ethnic Samoans districts; the other two are chosen by non-Samoans on separate electoral rolls. Universal suffrage was extended in 1990, but only chiefs (matai) may stand for election to the Samoan seats. There are more than 25,000 matais in the country, about 5% of whom are women. The prime minister is chosen by a majority in the Fono and is appointed by the chief of state to form a government. The prime minister's choices for the 12 cabinet positions are appointed by the chief of state, subject to the continuing confidence of the Fono.

The judicial system is based on English common law and local customs. The Supreme Court is the court of highest jurisdiction. Its chief justice is appointed by the chief of state upon the recommendation of the prime minister.

Principal Government Officials

Last Updated: 9/27/2005

Head of State: Malietoa, Tanumafili II
Prime Minister: Tuila'epa, Sailele Malielegaoi
Deputy Prime Minister: Misa, Telefoni Retzlaff
Min. of Agriculture: Tuisugaletaua, Sofara Aveau
Min. of Commerce, Industry, & Labor: Hans, Joachim
Min. of Communication & Information Technology: Palusalue, Faapo
Min. of Education, Sports, & Culture: Fiame, Naomi Mata'afa
Min. of Foreign Affairs: Tuila'epa, Sailele Malielegaoi
Min. of Health: Mulitalo, Siafausa Vui
Min. of Justice & Courts Admin.:
Min. of Natural Resources & Environment: Tagaloa, Sale Tagaloa
Min. of Police: Ulu, Vaomalo Kini
Min. of Revenue: Gaina, Tino
Min. of Women, Community, & Social Development: Tuala, Ainiu Iusitino
Min. of Works, Transport, & Infrastructure: Faumuina, Liuga Attorney General: Heather, Brenda
Governor, Central Bank: Scanlan, Papali'i Tommy
Ambassador to the US: Elisaia, Aliioaiga Feturi
Permanent Representative to the UN, New York: Elisaia, Aliioaiga Feturi

Samoa maintains its diplomatic representation in the United States at 800 2nd Avenue, Suite 400D, New York, NY 10017; Tel: 212-599-6196.


POLITICAL CONDITIONS

Since 1982 the majority party in the Fono has been the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP). HRPP leader Tofilau Eti Alesana served as prime minister for nearly all of the period between 1982 and 1998, when he resigned due to health reasons. Tofilau Eti was replaced by his deputy, Tuila'epa Sailele Malielegaoi.

Parliamentary elections were held in March 2001. The Human Rights Protection Party, led by Tuila'epa Sailele Malielegaoi, won 30 of the 49 seats in the current Fono. The Samoa National Development Party, led by Le Mamea Ropati, is the main opposition. A new political party, Samoa Party, was launched recently.


ECONOMY

The Samoan economy is dependent on agricultural exports, tourism, and capital flows from abroad. The effects of three natural disasters in the early 1990s were overcome by the middle of the decade, but economic growth cooled again with the regional economic downturn. Long-run development depends upon upgrading the tourist infrastructure, attracting foreign investment, and further diversification of the economy.

Two major cyclones hit Samoa at the beginning of the 1990s. Cyclone Ofa left an estimated 10,000 islanders homeless in February 1990; Cyclone Val caused 13 deaths and hundreds of millions of dollars in damage in December 1991. As a result, GDP declined by nearly 50% from 1989 to 1991. These experiences and Samoa's position as a low-lying island state punctuate its concern about global climate change.

Further economic problems occurred in 1994 with an outbreak of taro leaf blight and the near collapse of the national airline Polynesian Airlines. Taro, a root crop, traditionally was Samoa's largest export, generating more than half of all export revenue in 1993. But a fungal blight decimated the plants, and in each year since 1994 taro exports have accounted for less than 1% of export revenue. Polynesian Airlines reached a financial crisis in 1994, which disrupted the tourist industry and eventually required a government bailout.

The government responded to these shocks with a major program of road building and post-cyclone infrastructure repair. Economic reforms were stepped up, including the liberalization of exchange controls. GDP growth rebounded to over 6% in both 1995 and 1996 before slowing again at the end of the decade.

The service sector accounts for more than half of GDP and employs approximately 30% of the labor force. Tourism is the largest-single activity, more than doubling in visitor numbers and revenue over the last decade. More than 85,000 visitors came to Samoa in 1999, contributing over $12 million to the local economy. One-third came from American Samoa, 28% from New Zealand, and 11% from the United States. Arrivals increased in 2000, as visitors to the South Pacific avoided the political strife in Fiji by traveling to Samoa instead.

The primary sector (agriculture, forestry, and fishing) employs nearly two-thirds of the labor force and produces 17% of GDP. Important products include coconuts and fish.

Industry accounts for over one-quarter of GDP while employing less than 6% of the work force. The largest industrial venture is Yazaki Samoa, a Japanese-owned company processing automotive components for export to Australia under a concessional market-access arrangement. The Yazaki plant employs more than 2,000 workers and makes up over 20% of the manufacturing sector's total output. Net receipts amount to between $1.5 million and $3.03 million annually, although shipments from Yazaki are counted as services (export processing) and therefore do not officially appear as merchandise exports.

New Zealand is Samoa's principal trading partner, typically providing between 35% and 40% of imports and purchasing 45%-50% of exports. Australia, American Samoa, the U.S., and Fiji also are important trading partners. Samoa's principal exports are coconut products and fish. Its main imports are food and beverages, industrial supplies, and fuels.

The collapse of taro exports in 1994 has had the unintended effect of modestly diversifying Samoa's export products and markets. Prior to the taro leaf blight, Samoa's exports consisted of taro ($1.1 million), coconut cream ($540,000), and "other" ($350,000). Ninety percent of exports went to the Pacific region, and only 1% went to Europe. Forced to look for alternatives to taro, Samoa's exporters have dramatically increased the production of copra, coconut oil, and fish. These three products, which combined to produce export revenue of less than $100,000 in 1993, now account for over $3.8 million. There also has been a relative shift from Pacific markets to European ones, which now receive nearly 15% of Samoa's exports. Samoa's exports are still concentrated in coconut products ($2.36 million worth of copra, copra meal, coconut oil, and coconut cream) and fish ($1.51 million) but are at least somewhat more diverse than before.

Samoa annually receives important financial assistance from abroad. The more than 100,000 Samoans who live overseas provide two sources of revenue. Their direct remittances have amounted to $12.1 million per year recently, and they account for more than half of all tourist visits. In addition to the expatriate community, Samoa also receives roughly $7.57 million annually in official development assistance from sources led by China, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. These three sources of revenue—tourism, private transfers, and official transfers—allow Samoa to cover its persistently large trade deficit.


FOREIGN RELATIONS

The Samoan Government is generally conservative and pro-Western, with a strong interest in regional political and economic issues. At independence in 1962, Samoa signed a Treaty of Friendship with New Zealand. This treaty confirms the special relationship between the two countries and provides a framework for their interaction.

Under the terms of the treaty, Samoa can request that New Zealand act as a channel of communication to governments and international organizations outside the immediate area of the Pacific islands. Samoa also can request defense assistance, which New Zealand is required to consider (Samoa does not maintain a formal military). Overall Samoa has strong links with New Zealand, where many Samoans now live and many others were educated.

The Samoan Government was an outspoken critic of the French decision to resume nuclear weapons testing in the South Pacific in 1995. An indefinite ban was placed on visits to Samoa by French warships and aircraft. Large-scale street demonstrations were held in Apia. The French tests concluded in early 1996.

Samoa participated in a first round of negotiations with its Pacific Island neighbors for a regional trade agreement in August 2000.

Principal U.S. Embassy Officials

APIA (E) Address: U.S. Embassy, 5th Floor, ACB House, Matafele, Apia, Samoa; APO/FPO: American Embassy, PSC 467 BOX 1, APO AP 96531-1034; Phone: (685) 21-631; Fax: (685) 22-030; Workweek: Monday to Friday, 0800 - 1630.

AMB:Charles J. Swindells (Resident in Welllington)
DCM/CHG:Timothy W. Harley
MGT:Ronna Pazdral (Wellington)
CA:Richard Adams (Auckland)
DAO:Rick Martinez (Wellington)
FMO:Vacant (Wellington)
GSO:Frederick Olivo (Wellington)
ICASS Chair:Non-ICASS Post
ISSO:See DCM/Charge
PAO:Roy Glover (Wellington)
RSO:William B. Leverett (Wellington)
State ICASS:Non-ICASS Post
Last Updated: 2/4/2005

TRAVEL

Consular Information Sheet

October 12, 2005

Country Description:

Samoa consists of the two large islands of Upolu and Savai'i and seven small islets. The country has a stable parliamentary democracy with a developing economy. Tourist facilities are accessible by bus, taxi, and car and are within walking distance of access roads. Infrastructure is adequate in Apia, the capital, but it is limited in other areas. The Samoan Tourism Authority, which has a wide range of information of interest to travelers, can be contacted at http://www.visitsamoa.ws.

Entry and Exit Requirements:

Samoa entry and exit requirements for U.S. NON-CITIZEN NATIONALS changed slightly effective May 31, 2005. It is important to note in this regard that U.S. law distinguishes between individuals who are citizens and individuals who are nationals. The bio-page of one's U.S. passport will indicate one's status as either a citizen or non-citizen national. U.S. nationals who are not U.S. citizens are now required to obtain visitor permits prior to all travel to Samoa. U.S. non-citizen nationals are also no longer permitted to travel to Samoa on Certificates of Identity. A valid passport and an onward/return ticket are required for all Americans (both citizens and nationals) to travel to Samoa. Visitor permits are not required for U.S. citizens (only for U.S. nationals) seeking to stay in Samoa for up to 60 days. All visitors are required to pay a departure tax of 40-tala (approximately 15.50 USD) upon leaving the country. Further information about entry requirements and the departure tax may be obtained from the Samoa Mission to the United Nations at 800-2nd Avenue, Suite 400J, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 599-6196 and 7, fax (212) 599-0797.

Safety and Security:

In Apia and many villages, stray dogs wander the streets. Visitors should not approach or feed them; they can become aggressive in the presence of food and/or if they feel threatened.

Although there have been no major accidents involving the ferry service linking Upolu and Savai'i, vessels are sometimes overloaded. One of the ferries, a multi-deck automobile ferry, sometimes transports passengers on its automobile deck. Americans who choose to use this ferry are encouraged not to remain in the automobile deck during the crossing and to ride only in the passenger compartment in order to avoid injury from shifting vehicles.

Samoa has numerous "blowholes" (lava tubes open to the sea where wave action produces, often spectacular, geysers). These blowholes are popular tourist attractions. The footing around the mouths of most blowholes is very slippery. To avoid being swept in, visitors should not approach too closely and should never stand between the opening of the blowhole and the sea.

Snorkeling in ocean lagoons is a popular activity for many visitors to Samoa. Tide changes can produce powerful currents in these lagoons. Visitors are encouraged to consult local residents about hazards and conditions at a particular location before venturing into the water.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Travel Warnings and Public Announcements, including the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, can be found. Up-to-date information of safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Crime:

Overall, Samoa is considered a low threat environment. Nevertheless, visitors should remain aware of their surroundings, lock their doors at night, and not leave their belongings unattended. Although violent crimes involving foreign visitors are rare, incidents of petty theft/robberies of personal effects are fairly common.

Information for Victims of Crime:

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney, if needed.

Medical Facilities and Health Information:

Health care facilities in Samoa are adequate for routine medical treatment, but are limited in range and availability. The national hospital and a small private hospital are located in Apia, and there are several small district hospitals on Savai'i and in outlying areas of Upolu. Serious medical conditions and treatments that require hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost thousands of dollars. Travelers should carry emergency evacuation insurance. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. There is no reported incidence of malaria or rabies in Samoa. Occasional outbreaks of typhoid and nonhemorrhagic dengue do occur.

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); or via the CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's (WHO) website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

Medical Insurance:

The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as medical evacuation.

Traffic Safety and Road Conditions:

While in a foreign country, Americans may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Samoa is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance: Safety of public transportation and rural road conditions are considered as fair, while urban road conditions/maintenance is considered good. No roadside assistance is available. Most major roads are tar-sealed, but secondary roads are predominantly dirt and gravel and may be overgrown with vegetation. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for travel on these roads. Travelers should be aware that vehicle safety regulations are rarely enforced and traffic violations occur routinely. Night driving on unlit rural roads can be dangerous and should be avoided if possible. Roads in Samoa often traverse small streams. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution when fording these streams, which can become swollen and dangerous with little warning. Vehicles should never enter a stream if the roadbed is not visible or if the water's depth exceeds the vehicle's clearance.

For specific information concerning Samoa driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, contact the Samoa Tourism Authority at P.O. Box 2272, Apia, Samoa; telephone (685) 63500, fax (685) 20886, email [email protected]. You may wish to consult the web site: http://www.visitsamoa.ws as well.

Aviation Safety Oversight:

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Samoa as being in compliance with ICAO international aviation safety standards for oversight of Samoa's air carrier operations.

Special Circumstances:

Some overseas treatment centers, known as Behavior Modification Facilities, operate in Samoa. Though these facilities may be operated and staffed by U.S. citizens, the Samoan government is solely responsible for compliance with local safety, health, sanitation and educational laws and regulations, including all licensing requirements of the staff in country. These standards, if any, may not be strictly enforced or meet the standards of similar facilities in the U.S. Parents should be aware that U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals 14 years of age and older have a right to apply for a passport and to request repatriation assistance from the U.S. government, both without parental consent. Any U.S. citizen or non-citizen enrollee has the right to contact a representative from the U.S. Embassy. For further information, consult the Department of State's Fact Sheet on Behavior Modification Facilities, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov. Parents may also contact the U.S. Embassy in Apia or the country officer in the Office of American Citizens Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs at 202-647-5226.

Samoa is located in an area of high seismic activity. Although the probability of a major earthquake occurring during an individual trip is remote, earthquakes can and will continue to happen. Major cyclones have occurred in the past and are always a concern. Strong winds are very common especially during the rainy season from November to April. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) web site http://www.fema.gov/.

Samoa customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Samoa of items such as firearms, fruits, pets and drugs. It is advisable to contact the Samoan Mission to the United Nations at 800-2nd Avenue, Suite 400J, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 599-6196 for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Criminal Penalties:

While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals are subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Samoa's laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Samoa are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Engaging in illicit sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in the United States.

Children's Issues:

Samoa is not a member of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, see the Office of Children's Issues website at http://www.travel.state.gov/family/family_1732.html.

Registration/Embassy Location:

Americans, both citizens and non citizen nationals, living or traveling in Samoa are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Samoa. Americans without Internet access may register directly at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Samoa and obtain updated information on travel and security within Samoa. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of an emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located in the Accident Compensation Board (ACB) Building, Fifth Floor, Apia. The Embassy is open to the public from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. The Embassy's mailing address is U.S. Embassy, P.O. Box 3430, Apia, Samoa 0815. The telephone numbers are (685) 21436/21631/22696 and 21452. The fax number is (685) 22030. An Embassy officer can be reached after hours in an emergency involving the welfare of a U.S. citizen or non-citizen national at (685) 777-1776.

Samoa

views updated May 14 2018

SAMOA

Compiled from the November 2004 Background Note and supplemented with additional information from the State Department and the editors of this volume. See the introduction to this set for explanatory notes.

Official Name:
Independent State of Samoa


PROFILE

Geography

Area: 2,934 sq. km. (1,133 sq. mi.) in two main islands plus seven smaller ones.

Cities: Capital (pop. 34,000)—Apia.

Terrain: Mountainous with narrow coastal plain.

Climate: Tropical.

People

Nationality: Noun and adjective—Samoan.

Population: (July 2004 est.) 177,714. Age structure—28.3% under 15; 6.3% over 65.

Growth rate: -0.25% (mainly due to emigration).

Ethnic groups: Samoan 92.6%, Euronesian (mixed European and Polynesian) 7%, European 0.4%.

Religions: Christian 99.7%.

Languages: Samoan, English.

Education: Literacy—99.7%.

Health: Life expectancy—male 67.64 yrs.; female 73.33 yrs. Infant mortality rate—29.72/1,000.

Work force: Agriculture—64%; services—30%.

Government

Type: Mix of parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy.

Independence: (from New Zealand-administered UN trusteeship) January 1, 1962.

Constitution: January 1, 1962.

Branches: Executive—head of state (incumbent serves for life; successors will be elected), prime minister (head of government), cabinet. Legislative—unicameral parliament (Fono). Judicial—Supreme Court and supporting hierarchy.

Political parties: Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP), Samoan National Development Party (SNDP), Samoan United Independents Party.

Economy

GDP: $284.3. million.

GDP per capita: (nominal) $1,600.>

GDP composition by sector: Services 59%, industry 28%, agriculture 14%.

Industry: Types—tourism, coconuts, small scale manufacturing, fishing.

Trade: Exports—$15.9 million: coconut products, fish, (processing of automotive components). Export markets—New Zealand, Australia, U.S. (includes American Samoa). Imports—$30.3 million: food and beverages, industrial supplies. Import sources—New Zealand, Australia, U.S. ($4.73 million), Fiji.

External debt: $151.5 million (90% is owed to multilateral lenders).

Currency: tala (or Samoan dollar).


GEOGRAPHY AND PEOPLE

Samoa consists of the two large islands of Upolu and Savai'i and seven small islets located about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand in the Polynesian region of the South Pacific. The main island of Upolu is home to nearly three-quarters of Samoa's population and its capital city of Apia. The climate is tropical, with a rainy season from November to April.

The Fa'a Samoa, or traditional Samoan way, remains a strong force in Samoan life and politics. Despite centuries of European influence, Samoa maintains its historical customs, social systems, and language, which is believed to be the oldest form of Polynesian speech still in existence. Only the Maoris of New Zealand outnumber the Samoans among Polynesian groups.


HISTORY

Migrants from Southeast Asia arrived in the Samoan islands more than 2,000 years ago and from there settled the rest of Polynesia further to the east. Contact with Europeans began in the early 1700s but did not intensify until the arrival of English missionaries and traders in the 1830s. At the turn of the 20th century, the Samoan islands were split into two sections. The eastern islands became territories of the United States in 1904 and today are known as American Samoa. The western islands became known as Western Samoa (now just Samoa), passing from German control to New Zealand in 1914. New Zealand administered Western Samoa under the auspices of the League of Nations and then as a UN trusteeship until independence in 1962. Western Samoa was the first Pacific Island country to gain its independence.

In July 1997 the Constitution was amended to change the country's name from Western Samoa to Samoa. Samoa had been known simply as Samoa in the United Nations since joining the organization in 1976. The neighboring U.S. territory of American Samoa protested the move, feeling that the change diminished its own Samoan identity. American Samoans still use the terms Western Samoa and Western Samoans.


GOVERNMENT

The 1960 Constitution, which formally came into force with independence, is based on the British pattern of parliamentary democracy, modified to take account of Samoan customs. Samoa's two high chiefs at the time of independence were given lifetime appointments to jointly hold the office of head of state. Malietoa Tanumafili II has held this post alone since the death of his colleague in 1963. His eventual successor will be selected by the legislature for a 5-year term.

The unicameral legislature (Fono) contains 49 members serving 5-year terms. Forty-seven are elected from territorial districts by ethnic Samoans districts; the other two are chosen by non-Samoans on separate electoral rolls. Universal suffrage was extended in 1990, but only chiefs (matai) may stand for election to the Samoan seats. There are more than 25,000 matais in the country, about 5% of whom are women. The prime minister is chosen by a majority in the Fono and is appointed by the chief of state to form a government. The prime minister's choices for the 12 cabinet positions are appointed by the chief of state, subject to the continuing confidence of the Fono.

The judicial system is based on English common law and local customs. The Supreme Court is the court of highest jurisdiction. Its chief justice is appointed by the chief of state upon the recommendation of the prime minister.

Principal Government Officials

Last Updated: 9/29/04

Head of State: Malietoa , Tanumafili II
Prime Minister: Tuila'epa , Sailele Malielegaoi
Deputy Prime Minister: Misa , Telefoni Retzlaff
Min. of Agriculture: Tuisugaletaua , Sofara Aveau
Min. of Commerce, Industry, & Labor: Hans , Joachim
Min. of Communication & Information Technology: Palusalue , Faapo
Min. of Education, Sports, & Culture: Fiame , Naomi Mata'afa
Min. of Foreign Affairs: Tuila'epa , Sailele Malielegaoi
Min. of Health: Mulitalo , Siafausa Vui
Min. of Justice & Courts Admin.:
Min. of Natural Resources & Environment: Tagaloa , Sale Tagaloa
Min. of Police: Ulu , Vaomalo Kini
Min. of Revenue: Gaina , Tino
Min. of Women, Community, & Social Development: Tuala , Ainiu Iusitino
Min. of Works, Transport, & Infrastructure: Faumuina , Liuga
Attorney General: Heather , Brenda
Governor, Central Bank: Scanlan , Papali'i Tommy
Ambassador to the US: Elisaia , Aliioaiga Feturi
Permanent Representative to the UN, New York: Elisaia , Aliioaiga Feturi

Samoa maintains its diplomatic representation in the United States at 800 2nd Avenue, Suite 400D, New York, NY 10017; tel: 212-599-6196.


POLITICAL CONDITIONS

Since 1982 the majority party in the Fono has been the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP). HRPP leader Tofilau Eti Alesana served as prime minister for nearly all of the period between 1982 and 1998, when he resigned due to health reasons. Tofilau Eti was replaced by his deputy, Tuila'epa Sailele Malielegaoi.

Parliamentary elections were held in March 2001. The Human Rights Protection Party, led by Tuila'epa Sailele Malielegaoi, won 30 of the 49 seats in the current Fono. The Samoa National Development Party, led by Le Mamea Ropati, is the main opposition. Other political parties are the Samoan Progressive Conservative Party, the Samoa All Peoples Party, and the Samoa Liberal Party.


ECONOMY

The Samoan economy is dependent on agricultural exports, tourism, and capital flows from abroad. The effects of three natural disasters in the early 1990s were overcome by the middle of the decade, but economic growth cooled again with the regional economic downturn. Long-run development depends upon upgrading the tourist infrastructure, attracting foreign investment, and further diversification of the economy.

Two major cyclones hit Samoa at the beginning of the 1990s. Cyclone Ofa left an estimated 10,000 islanders homeless in February 1990; Cyclone Val caused 13 deaths and hundreds of millions of dollars in damage in December 1991. As a result, GDP declined by nearly 50% from 1989 to 1991. These experiences and Samoa's position as a low-lying island state punctuate its concern about global climate change.

Further economic problems occurred in 1994 with an outbreak of taro leaf blight and the near collapse of the national airline Polynesian Airlines. Taro, a root crop, traditionally was Samoa's largest export, generating more than half of all export revenue in 1993. But a fungal blight decimated the plants, and in each year since 1994 taro exports have accounted for less than 1% of export revenue. Polynesian Airlines reached a financial crisis in 1994, which disrupted the tourist industry and eventually required a government bailout.

The government responded to these shocks with a major program of road building and post-cyclone infrastructure repair. Economic reforms were stepped up, including the liberalization of exchange controls. GDP growth rebounded to over 6% in both 1995 and 1996 before slowing again at the end of the decade.

The service sector accounts for more than half of GDP and employs approximately 30% of the labor force. Tourism is the largest-single activity, more than doubling in visitor numbers and revenue over the last decade. More than 85,000 visitors came to Samoa in 1999, contributing over $12 million to the local economy. One-third came from American Samoa, 28% from New Zealand, and 11% from the United States. Arrivals increased in 2000, as visitors to the South Pacific avoided the political strife in Fiji by traveling to Samoa instead.

The primary sector (agriculture, forestry, and fishing) employs nearly two-thirds of the labor force and produces 17% of GDP. Important products include coconuts and fish.

Industry accounts for over one-quarter of GDP while employing less than 6% of the work force. The largest industrial venture is Yazaki Samoa, a Japanese-owned company processing automotive components for export to Australia under a concessional market-access arrangement. The Yazaki plant employs more than 2,000 workers and makes up over 20% of the manufacturing sector's total output. Net receipts amount to between $1.5 million and $3.03 million annually, although shipments from Yazaki are counted as services (export processing) and therefore do not officially appear as merchandise exports.

New Zealand is Samoa's principal trading partner, typically providing between 35% and 40% of imports and purchasing 45%-50% of exports. Australia, American Samoa, the U.S., and Fiji also are important trading partners. Samoa's principal exports are coconut products and fish. Its main imports are food and beverages, industrial supplies, and fuels.

The collapse of taro exports in 1994 has had the unintended effect of modestly diversifying Samoa's export products and markets. Prior to the taro leaf blight, Samoa's exports consisted of taro ($1.1 million), coconut cream ($540,000), and "other" ($350,000). Ninety percent of exports went to the Pacific region, and only 1% went to Europe. Forced to look for alternatives to taro, Samoa's exporters have dramatically increased the production of copra, coconut oil, and fish. These three products, which combined to produce export revenue of less than $100,000 in 1993, now account for over $3.8 million. There also has been a relative shift from Pacific markets to European ones, which now receive nearly 15% of Samoa's exports. Samoa's exports are still concentrated in coconut products ($2.36 million worth of copra, copra meal, coconut oil, and coconut cream) and fish ($1.51 million) but are at least somewhat more diverse than before.

Samoa annually receives important financial assistance from abroad. The more than 100,000 Samoans who live overseas provide two sources of revenue. Their direct remittances have amounted to $12.1 million per year recently, and they account for more than half of all tourist visits. In addition to the expatriate community, Samoa also receives roughly $7.57 million annually in official development assistance from sources led by Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. These three sources of revenue—tourism, private transfers, and official transfers—allow Samoa to cover its persistently large trade deficit.


FOREIGN RELATIONS

The Samoan Government is generally conservative and pro-Western, with a strong interest in regional political and economic issues. At independence in 1962, Samoa signed a Treaty of Friendship with New Zealand. This treaty confirms the special relationship between the two countries and provides a framework for their interaction. Under the terms of the treaty, Samoa can request that New Zealand act as a channel of communication to governments and international organizations outside the immediate area of the Pacific islands. Samoa also can request defense assistance, which New Zealand is required to consider (Samoa does not maintain a formal military). Overall Samoa has strong links with New Zealand, where many Samoans now live and many others were educated.

The Samoan Government was an outspoken critic of the French decision to resume nuclear weapons testing in the South Pacific in 1995. An indefinite ban was placed on visits to Samoa by French warships and aircraft. Largescale street demonstrations were held in Apia. The French tests concluded in early 1996.

Samoa participated in a first round of negotiations with its Pacific Island neighbors for a regional trade agreement in August 2000.

Principal U.S. Embassy Officials

APIA (E) Address: U.S. Embassy, 5th Floor, ACB House, Matafele, Apia, Samoa; APO/FPO: American Embassy, PSC 467 BOX 1, APO AP 96531-1034; Phone: (685) 21-631; Fax: (685) 22-030; Workweek: Monday to Friday, 0800 - 1630

AMB: Charles J. Swindells (Resident in Welllington)
DCM/CHG: Timothy W. Harley
MGT: Ronna Pazdral (Wellington)
CA: Richard Adams (Auckland)
DAO: Rick Martinez (Wellington)
FMO: Vacant (Wellington)
GSO: Frederick Olivo (Wellington)
ICASS Chair: Non-ICASS Post
ISSO: See DCM/Charge
PAO: Roy Glover (Wellington)
RSO: William B. Leverett (Wellington)
State ICASS: Non-ICASS Post

Last Updated: 2/4/2005


TRAVEL

Consular Information Sheet

November 19, 2004

Country Description: Samoa consists of the two large islands of Upolu and Savai'i and seven small islets. The country has a stable parliamentary democracy with a developing economy. Tourist facilities are accessible by bus, taxi, and car and are within walking distance of access roads. Infrastructure is adequate in Apia, the capital, but it is limited in other areas. The Samoan Tourism Authority, which has a wide range of information of interest to travelers, can be contacted at http://www.visitsamoa.ws.

Entry/Exit Requirements: A passport and an onward/return ticket are required for travel to Samoa. Visas are not required for a stay of up to 30 days. All visitors are required to pay a departure tax upon leaving the country. Further information about entry requirements may be obtained from the Samoa Mission to the United Nations at 800-2nd Avenue, Suite 400J, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 599-6196 and 7, fax (212) 599-0797. See our Foreign Entry Requirements brochure for more information on Samoa and other countries.

Safety and Security: In Apia and in many villages, stray dogs wander the streets. Visitors should not approach or feed them; they can become aggressive in the presence of food and/or if they feel threatened.

Although no major accidents have occurred on the ferry service linking Upolu and Savai'i, vessels are sometimes overloaded. One of the ferries, a multi-deck automobile ferry, sometimes transports passengers on its automobile deck. Americans who choose to use this ferry are encouraged not to remain in the automobile deck during the crossing and to ride only in the passenger compartment in order to avoid possible injury from shifting vehicles.

"Blowholes" (lava tubes open to the sea where wave action produces often spectacular geysers) are popular tourist attractions in Samoa. The footing around the mouths of most blowholes is very slippery. To avoid being swept in, visitors should not approach too closely and should never stand between the opening of the blowhole and the sea.

Snorkeling in ocean lagoons, a popular activity for many visitors, can be dangerous. Tide changes can produce powerful currents in these lagoons. Visitors are encouraged to consult local residents about hazards and conditions at a particular location before venturing into the water.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found.

Up-to-date information of safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State's pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad.

Crime: Overall, Samoa is considered a low threat environment. Nevertheless, visitors should remain aware of their surroundings, lock their doors at night, and not leave their belongings unattended. Although violent crimes involving foreign visitors are rare, incidents of petty theft/robberies of personal effects are fairly common.

Information for Victims of Crime: The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney, if needed. See our information on Victims of Crime at http://travel.state.gov/travel/brochure_victim_assistance.html.

Medical Facilities and Health Information: Health care facilities in Samoa are adequate for routine medical treatment, but are limited in range and availability. The national hospital and a small private hospital are located in Apia, and there are several small district hospitals on Savai'i and in outlying areas of Upolu. Serious medical conditions and treatments that require hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost thousands of dollars. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's (WHO) website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

Medical Insurance: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as medical evacuation.

Traffic Safety and Road Conditions: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Samoa is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

No roadside assistance is available. Most major roads are tar-sealed, but secondary roads are predominantly dirt and gravel and may be overgrown with vegetation. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for travel on these roads. Travelers should be aware that vehicle safety regulations are rarely enforced and traffic violations occur routinely. Night driving on unlit rural roads can be dangerous and should be avoided if possible. Roads in Samoa often traverse small streams. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution when fording these streams, which can become swollen and dangerous with little warning. Vehicles should never enter a stream if the roadbed is not visible or if the water's depth exceeds the vehicle's clearance.

Visit the website of the country's national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety at http://www.visitsamoa.ws.

For specific information concerning Samoa driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, contact the Samoa Tourism Authority at P.O. Box 2272, Apia, Samoa; telephone (685) 63500, fax (685) 20886, email [email protected].

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Samoa as being in compliance with ICAO international aviation safety standards for oversight of Samoa's air carrier operations. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA International website at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm.

Special Circumstances: Some overseas treatment centers, known as Behavior Modification Facilities, operate in Samoa. Though these facilities may be operated and staffed by U.S. citizens, the Samoan government is solely responsible for compliance with local safety, health, sanitation and educational laws and regulations, including all licensing requirements of the staff in country. These standards, if any, may not be strictly enforced or meet the standards of similar facilities in the U.S. Parents should be aware that U.S. citizens 14 years of age and older have a right to apply for a passport and to request repatriation assistance from the U.S. government, both without parental consent. Any U.S. citizen enrollee has the right to contact a representative from the U.S. Embassy. For further information, consult the Department of State's Fact "Sheet on Behavior Modification Facilities," available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov. Parents may also contact the U.S. Embassy in Apia or the country officer in the Office of American Citizens Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs at 202-647-5226.

Samoa is located in an area of high seismic activity. Although the probability of a major earthquake occurring during an individual trip is remote, earthquakes do occur. Major cyclones have occurred in the past and are always a concern. Strong winds are very common, especially during the rainy season from November to April. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) web site http://www.fema.gov.

Samoa customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Samoa of items such as firearms, fruits, pets and drugs. It is advisable to contact the Samoan Mission to the United Nations at 800-2nd Avenue, Suite 400J, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 599-6196 for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Criminal Penalties: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than those in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Samoa's laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Samoa are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Engaging in illicit sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in the United States.

Children's Issues: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, see the Office of Children's Issues website at http://travel.state.gov/family/index.html.

Registration/Embassy Location: Americans living or traveling in Samoa are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Samoa. Americans without Internet access may register directly at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Samoa and obtain updated information on travel and security within Samoa. The U.S. Embassy is located in the Accident Compensation Board (ACB) Building, Fifth Floor, Apia. The Embassy is open to the public from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. The Embassy's mailing address is U.S. Embassy, P.O. Box 3430, Apia, Samoa 0815. The telephone numbers are (685) 21436/21631/22696. The fax number is (685) 22030. An Embassy officer can be reached after hours in an emergency involving the welfare of an American citizen at (685) 777-1776. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of an emergency.

Samoa

views updated May 23 2018

Samoa

Culture Name

Samoan

Orientation

Identification. Oral tradition holds that the Samoan archipelago was created by the god Tagaloa at the beginning of history. Until 1997, the western islands were known as Western Samoa or Samoa I Sisifo to distinguish them from the nearby group known as American Samoa or Amerika Samoa. The distinction was necessitated by the partitioning of the archipelago in 1899. All Samoans adhere to a set of core social values and practices known as fa'a Samoa and speak the Samoan language. The official name today is Samoa.

Location and Geography. Samoa includes nine inhabited islands on top of a submarine mountain range. The largest islands are Savai'i at 703 square miles (1820 square kilometers) and Upolu at 430 square miles (1114 square kilometers), on which the capital, Apia, is located. The capital and port developed around Apia Bay from an aggregation of thirteen villages.

Demography. The population is estimated at 172,000 for the year 2000, 94 percent of which is is ethnically Samoan. A small number of people of mixed descent are descendants of Samoans and European, Chinese, Melanesians, and other Polynesians who settled in the country in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

Linguistic Affiliation. Samoan belongs to a group of Austronesian languages spoken throughout Polynesia. It has a chiefly or polite variant used in elite communication and a colloquial form used in daily communication. Samoan is the language of instruction in elementary schools and is used alongside English in secondary and tertiary education, government, commerce, religion, and the broadcast media. The language is a cherished symbol of cultural identity.

Symbolism. A representation of the Southern Cross appears on both the national flag and the emblem of state. The close link between Samoan society and Christianity is symbolized in the national motto "Samoa is founded on God" (Fa'avae ile Atua Samoa ) and in a highlighted cross on the national emblem. The sea and the coconut palm, both major food sources, also are shown on the emblem. An orator's staff and sinnet fly whisk and a multilegged wooden bowl in which the beverage kava is prepared for chiefs are symbolic of the authority of tradition. A political movement, O le Mau a Pule, promoted independence in the first half of the twentieth century, calling for Samoa for Samoans (Samoa mo Samoa ) and engaging in confrontations with colonial powers over the right to self-government. For some, the struggles of the Mau, in particular the martyrdom of a national chief in a confrontation with New Zealand soldiers, are symbols of the nation's determination to reclaim sovereignty. Samoans celebrate the peaceful attainment of constitutional independence in 1962 on 1 June.

The national anthem and a religious anthem, Lota Nu'u ua ou Fanau ai ("My Village in Which I Was Born") are sung to celebrate national identity. Samoans refer to their country in these anthems as a gift from God and refer to themselves in formal speech as the children of Samoa, brothers and sisters, and the Samoan family.

History and Ethnic Relations

Emergence of the Nation. In the mid-nineteenth century, Germany, Britain, and the United States established consular presences and attempted to impose their authority. Mutual suspicion, disunity, and a lack of military resources meant that the powers were largely unsuccessful until they agreed to "rationalize" their Pacific interests at the turn of the century.

The western part of the archipelago came under German control, and the eastern part under American naval administration. The German administration was determined to impose its authority and tried to undermine the Samoan polity and replace its titular heads with the kaiser. These attempts provoked varying degrees of anger between 1900 and 1914, when a small New Zealand expeditionary force, acting on British orders, ended the German administration.

After World War I, New Zealand administered Western Samoa under a League of Nations mandate. It too was determined to establish authority and pursued a course similar to that of the Germans. It proved an inept administration, and its mishandling of the S.S. Talune's arrival, which resulted in the death of 25 percent of the population from influenza and its violent reaction to the Mau procession in 1929, left Samoans suspicious and disillusioned. These and other clumsy attempts to promote village and agricultural development strengthened Samoans' determination to reclaim their autonomy. Their calls found the ear of a sympathetic Labor government in New Zealand in the mid-1930s, but World War II intervened before progress was made.

After World War II, the United Nations made Samoa a trusteeship and gave New Zealand responsibility for preparing it for independence. A better trained and more sympathetic administration and a determined and well-educated group of Samoans led the country through a series of national consultations and constitutional conventions. That process produced a unique constitution that embodied elements of Samoan and British political traditions and led to a peaceful transition to independence on 1 January 1962.

National Identity. The national and political cultures that characterize the nation are unambiguously Samoan. This is in large part a consequence of a constitutional provision that limited both suffrage and political representation to those who held chiefly titles and are widely regarded as protectors of culture and tradition. These arrangements continued until 1991, when the constitution was amended to permit universal suffrage. While representation is still limited to chiefs, the younger titleholders now being elected generally have broader experience and more formal education than their predecessors.

Ethnic Relations. Samoan society has been remarkably free of ethnic tension, largely as a result of the dominance of a single ethnic group and a history of intermarriage that has blurred ethnic boundaries. Samoans have established significant migrant communities in a number of countries, including New Zealand, Australia, and the United States, and smaller communities in other neighbors.

Urbanism, Architecture, and the Use of Space

The spatial arrangement of villages beyond the capital has changed little. Most villages lie on flat land beside the sea and are connected by a coastal road. Clusters of sleeping houses, their associated cooking houses, and structures for ablutions are arranged around a central common (malae ). Churches, pastors' homes, meeting houses and guest houses, and women's committee meeting houses also occupy prominent positions around the malae. Schools stand on land provided by villages and frequently on the malae.

The availability of migrant remittances has transformed the design and materials used in private homes and public buildings. Houses typically have large single rectangular spaces around which some furniture is spread and family portraits, certificates, and religious pictures are hung. Homes increasingly have indoor cooking and bathing facilities. The new architecture has reshaped social relations. Indigenous building materials are being replaced by sawn lumber framing and cladding, iron roofing, and concrete foundations. The coral lime cement once used in larger public buildings has been replaced by concrete and steel.

Food and Economy

Food in Daily Life. Samoans eat a mixture of local and imported foods. Local staples include fish, lobster, crab, chicken, and pork; lettuce and cabbage; root vegetables such as talo, ta'amu, and yams; tree crops such as breadfruit and coconut; and local beverages such as coffee and cocoa. Imported foods include rice, canned meat and fish, butter, jam, honey, flour, sugar, bread, tea, and carbonated beverages.

Many families drink beverages such as tea throughout the day but have a single main meal together in the evening. A range of restaurants, including a McDonald's, in the capital are frequented largely by tourists and the local elite.

Food Customs at Ceremonial Occasions. Sharing of food is a central element of ceremonies and features in Sunday meals known as toana'i, the feasts that accompany weddings and funerals and the conferring of chiefly titles, and annual feasts such as White Sunday. Special meals are marked by a larger than usual amount of food, a greater range of delicacies, and formality. Food also features in ceremonial presentations and exchanges between families and villages. The presentation of cooked whole pigs is a central feature of such events, and twenty-liter drums of salted beef are increasingly popular. Kava ('ava ), a beverage made from the powdered root of Piper methysticum, made and shared in a ceremonially defined order at meetings of chiefs (matai ) and less formally among men after work.

Basic Economy. The agricultural and industrial sectors employ 70 percent of the workforce and account for 65 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP). The service sector employs 30 percent of those employed and accounts for 35 percent of the GDP. Much of this sector is associated with the tourist industry, which is limited by intense competition from other islands in the region and its dependence on economic conditions in source countries.

The economy ran large trade deficits in the 1990s. Products are exported to New Zealand, American Samoa, Australia, Germany and the United States, and imports, intermediate goods, foods, and capital goods come from New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, and the United States. The economy is highly dependent on remittances from expatriates in New Zealand, Australia, the United States, and American Samoa and aid from New Zealand, Australia, and Germany. These remittances are declining because overseas-born children of migrants have attenuated their connections with the nation, whose geopolitical significance has declined since the Cold War ended.

Land Tenure and Property. Much agricultural production comes from the 87 percent of the land held under customary tenure and associated with villages. The control of this land is vested in elected chiefs (matai), who administer it for the families (aiga ) they head. The remaining 13 percent is land held by the crown and a small area of freehold residential land around the capital.

Trade. Samoa produces some primary commodities for export: hardwood timber, copra and coconut products, root vegetables, coffee, cocoa, and fish. Agricultural produce constitutes 90 percent of exports. The most promising export crop, taro, was effectively eliminated by leaf blight in 1993. A small industrial sector designed to provide import substitution and exports processes primary commodities such as coconut cream and oil, animal feed, soap, biscuits, cigarettes, and beer. A multinational corporation has established a wiring harness assembly plant whose production is reexported; and a clothing assembly plant is planned.

Social Stratification

Classes and Castes. Samoan society is meritocratic. Those with recognized ability have traditionally been elected to leadership of families. Aside from four nationally significant chiefly titles, the influence of most titles is confined to the families and villages with which they are associated. Title holders gained status and influence not only from accumulating resources but also from their ability to mobilize and redistribute them. These principles work against significant permanent disparities in wealth. The power of chiefs has been reduced, and the wealth returned by expatriates has flowed into all sectors of society, undermining traditional rank-wealth correlations. The public influence of women is becoming increasingly apparent. A commercial elite that has derived its power from the accumulation and investment of private wealth has become increasingly influential in politics.

Political Life

Government. The legislative branch of the government consists of a unicameral Legislative Assembly (O Le Fono a Faipule ) elected to five-year terms by universal suffrage. A twelve-member cabinet nominated by the prime minister is appointed by the head of state, Malietoa Tanumafili II, who has held that position since 1962. Forty-seven members are elected by Samoans in eleven electorates based on traditional political divisions. Two members at large represent general electors. Only holders of matai titles can be elected to the Fono.

Legislation is administered by a permanent public service that consists of people chosen on the basis of merit. The quality of public service has been questioned periodically since independence. Concern with the quality of governance has led the current government to engage in training programs aimed at institutional strengthening.

The judicial branch includes a Supreme Court, a court of appeals, and a lands and titles court. These agencies deal with matters that cannot be dealt with by village polities. Village polities (fono a matai ) are empowered by the Village Fono Act of 1990 to make and administer bylaws for the regulation of village activities and to punish those who break them.

Social Problems and Control. The role of village politics in the maintenance of order is important because the state has no army and a relatively small police force. This limits the ability of the state to enforce laws and shapes its relations with villages, which retain significant autonomy.

Samoans accept and trust these institutions but have found that they are ineffective in areas such as the pursuit of commercial debts. Recent cases have pointed to tension between collective rights recognized, emphasized, and enforced by village polities, and the individual rights conferred by the constitution in areas such as freedom of religion and speech.

Social Welfare and Change Programs

The government is responsible for health, education, and welfare in cooperation with villages and churches. Health care and education are provided for a nominal cost. Families provide for their members' welfare. The state grants a small old-age pension, and the Catholic Church runs a senior citizens' home.

Nongovernmental Organizations and Other Associations

The most influential nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are the churches, in which 99 percent of Samoans participate actively and which actively comment on the government's legislative program and activity. A small number of NGOs work for the rights of women and the disabled, environmental conservation, and transparency in government. Professional associations exert some influence on the drafting of legislation. These organizations have a limited impact on the life of most residents.

Gender Roles and Statuses

The organization of traditional production was clearly gendered, and the parts of this mode of production that remain intact are still gendered. The constitution provides for equality of opportunity, and there are no entrenched legal, social, or religious obstacles to equality for women. There is some evidence of growing upward social mobility by women.

Marriage, Family, and Kinship

Samoan society is composed of extended families (aiga potopoto ), each of which is associated with land and a chiefly title. All Samoans inherit membership and land use rights in the aiga of their parents' parents. They may choose to live with one or more of aiga and develop strong ties with those in which they live. Choices are determined by matters such as the availability of resources and status of various groups and personal preference. Aiga potopoto include resident members who work the land, "serve" the chief, and exercise full rights of membership and nonresident members who live outside the group but have some rights in its activities. Resident members live in clusters of households within the village, share some facilities and equipment, and work on family-land controlled by the matai.

Inheritance. Rights to reside on and use land are granted to members of a kin group who request them, subject to availability. Rights lapse at death, and matai may then reassign them. There is a growing tendency to approve the transmission of rights to parcels of land from parents to children, protecting investments in development and constituting a form of de facto freehold tenure. Since neither lands nor titles can be formally transmitted without the consent of the kin group, the only property that can be assigned is personal property.

Many residents die intestate and with little personal property. With increasing personal wealth, provision for the formal disposition of wealth may assume greater importance. This is not a foreign concept, since matai have traditionally made their wishes known before death in a form of will known as a mavaega. The Public Trust Office and legal practitioners handle the administration of estates.

Socialization

Child Rearing and Education. Younger people are expected to respect their elders and comply with their demands. Justification for this principle is found in Samoan tradition and Christian scripture. The only exception exists in early childhood, when infants are protected and indulged by parents, grandparents, and older siblings. After around age five, children are expected to take an active, if limited, part in the family economy. From then until marriage young people are expected to comply unquestioningly with their parents' and elders' wishes.

Great importance is attached to the family's role in socialization. A "good" child is alert and intelligent and shows deference, politeness, and obedience to elders and respect for Samoan custom (aganu'u fa'a samoa ) and Christian principles and practices. The belief that the potential for learning these qualities is partly genetic and partly social and is defined initially within the family is grounded in both Samoan and Christian thought.

Formal education is provided in secular and religious institutions. There are elementary, intermediate, and secondary secular schools run by the government or churches and church-linked classes that provide religious instruction. There is great respect and desire for higher education, and a significant part of the education budget is committed to supporting the National University of Samoa, the nursing school, the teachers training college, the trades training institute, and overseas training.

Religion

Religious Beliefs. Samoa is overwhelmingly Christian. The major denominationsCongregationalist, Methodist, Roman Catholic, and Latter-Day Saintshave been joined recently by smaller ones such as the SDA and charismatic Pentecostal groups such as Assembly of God. Clergy and leaders are prepared at theological training institutions at home and abroad. Small Baha'i and Muslim groups have formed in recent years.

Medicine and Health Care

Parallel systems of introduced and indigenous knowledge and practice coexist. Certain conditions are believed to be "Samoan illnesses" (ma'i samoa ) that are explained and treated by indigenous practitioners and others to be "European illnesses" (ma'i papalagi ), which are best understood and treated by those trained in the Western biomedical tradition.

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Cluny Macpherson