Rangers from Samoa have signed up to become members of the International Rangers Federation while attending a conference in New Zealand.

The local rangers’ subscription to the International Rangers Federation occurred when three of its members attended the inaugural Oceania Rangers Forum, which was held in Rotorua from 18–20 October.

The forum was attended by Faleafaga Toni Tipama'a (Samoa Conservation Society), Vailega Timoteo Moresi (Forestry Division of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment) and Tuiafutea Olsen Vaafusuaga (Faleaseela Environment Protection Society).

The three officials – who carry out ranger work for their respective organisations including the Ministry – have been part of and practising the trade for many years.

While attending the forum in New Zealand, they did presentations on Samoa’s three-pronged approach to promote conservation through collaboration between a Government Ministry, a non-government organisation and a church-based organisation.

The three local rangers also thanked the Council of Oceania Ranger Associations (CORA) President Jolene Nelson and the team for their insights and the hard work that went into playing host of the forum. It was attended by rangers from New Zealand, Australia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Island, United States, Samoa and Timor Leste. 

They also acknowledged the Thin Green Line Foundation for sponsoring the Samoan team to attend the conference.

Faleafaga told the Samoa Observer that the S.C.S. has made a big contribution to the rangers association and he believes they have a lot more to contribute.

"I believe the S.C.S can contribute more to the rangers association since we have rangers working in our Manumea-friendly villages (of Falealupo, Salelologa, Aopo, Faleaseela, Magiagi, Uafato and Togotogiga),” he said.

"Samoa Conservation Society is part of this program and we will continue to build on after this forum.”

First undergoing ranger training in Turangi New Zealand in 1987, Faleafaga said the Oceania Rangers Forum now gives them a platform to liaise with regional colleagues and strengthen relations.

“This forum has given Samoa the platform to continue working in Oceania with our other island rangers, and strengthen relations with Australia and New Zealand," he told this newspaper.

A statement released by the S.C.S. on their social media platform thanked the Queensland, New South Wales and Victorian Rangers Associations as well as Thin Green Line Foundation and Amanda's Walking the Thin Green Line funds for sponsoring the travel and accommodation of the three rangers from Samoa.

"Also acknowledging the CORA President Joelene Nelson and team, Eric, Andy, Nick, Micheal, Tegan and Mick for your invaluable insights and hard work to host this first Oceania Rangers Forum. A big congratulations, a big faamalo, malo lava to you all.

"Acknowledging also Ms Kelly Knights for your support to Samoan Rangers team. 

“Samoa Rangers Association has now been registered a member of the International Rangers Association and will have a voice and be part of the International Rangers Conference through CORA.”

The next Oceania Rangers Forum is scheduled for 2025.