The work of eight journalists and six organizations – including government ministries - were honoured yesterday by Conservation International.

One of the Global Conservation International Awards was presented to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, for her leadership on Oceans and Climate Change.  

Two Samoa Observer Reporters were also awarded in the media category of the awards. Chief Reporter Joyetter Feagaimaalii-Luamanu and Aruna Lolani received C.I. Awards along with other colleagues from the media.

Mrs. Luamanu was awarded for her coverage of Oceans and Climate change as an issue that threatens livelihoods in Samoa while Ms. Lolani received the award for best news feature on ocean health national coordination. 

Global Conservation International C.E.O, Dr. Sanjayan congratulated the recipients. 

 “I am pleased to be here to present these awards to you as part of Conservation Internationals continuous engagement with the people and Government of Samoa,” said Dr. Sanjayan.

“Acknowledging your hard work through Government, N.G.O’s, Private Sector and the media is something we take pride on because it is through our partnerships with you that we can continue to conserve and protect what is important to the Samoan islands, your rich and diverse ecosystems and environment."

“I acknowledge the government of Samoa through the Ministry of National Resource and Environment for the partnership we have had for many years in conservation."

“To our N.G.O. partners Samoa Conservation Society and Samoa Voyaging Society thank you for letting us be a part of your journey and our journey together."

“To our friends in the media, this work is important we all know this, but your work is integral to ensuring that our communities are informed and are aware of how they can play their part and how we can work together in conservation.”

AWARD WINNERS 

NATIONAL PARTNER AWARD:

• Fiame Naomi Mataafa – Minister of M.N.R.E for her leadership on oceans and climate change and key national stewardship role at the national and regional level.

• M.N.R.E.

• Ministry of Agriculture – Fisheries Division

• Samoa Voyaging Society 

• Samoa Conservation Society

• Youth Climate Action Network 

MEDIA AWARD:

• Joyetter Luamanu – Samoa Observer

• Aruna Lolani – Samoa Observer 

• Mila Muliagatele – TV3

• Jack Seumanutafa – TV1

• Matilda Nuulua Faleafa – EFKS TV

• Radio Polynesia

• Seia Ualesi – Savali Newspaper

• Tipi Autagavaia – RNZI