A new climate-resilient community safe house worth close to half a million tala was officially opened on Apolima Island on Tuesday, as the islanders' defences against climate change and natural disasters got a major boost. 

The smallest of the four inhabited islands in Samoa which lies in the Apolima Strait between Upolu and Savai'i has had countless life-threatening experiences over the years.

Located on a hill on the island, where about 10 families reside, the safe house was funded by the Japanese government at a total cost of USD$176,878 (approximately SAT$468,000) through the Embassy's Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP). 

The Project Coordinator, Leva'a Samoa Utuva reflected on the village residents' journey throughout the years and its' fight against natural disasters and climate change. He said Cyclone Ofa in 1990 was the worst encounter for many of the residents who are still alive today.

"Today, we make a collective stand or collective statement that we understand we cannot control climate change, but we can anticipate and be ready for the impacts of climate change," he said.

"I still remember Cyclone Ofa in 1990 – on this very land we are on was our primary school – which was destroyed and we ran to the fale Samoa on that land, much like that one standing.". 

When Cyclone Ofa struck, many of the residents who are now considered elders of the island had to cut the posts of the fale Samoa and hide under its roof for safety. 

Cyclone Valelia followed the next year, with similar stories of uncertainty, which Leva'a says he can never forget as the disasters threatened the people of Apolima.

"More and more, we see climate change, with huge impacts on small island nations such as Samoa," he added. "So this project is foresight because of the experiences and insight we have of climate change. This is foresight to ensure there is a safe shelter for the community when faced with natural disasters and unforeseen climatic impacts.

"Apolima Island is naturally isolated and difficult to access so we look at projects that ensure safety, security and the well-being of the whole community."

The primary purpose and importance of the project is a safe shelter for the community. However, for the building not to be left unused, it will also be used as a place where the several groups within the island such as women, children/youth can have their activities or as a place to host guests.

The total cost of the project was SAT$475,803 but due to the exchange rate, there was a shortfall of SAT$8,242.86. The community then contributed about SAT$10,000 and also provided the manpower for the contractor as it was impossible to transport machines to the island.

The community also took care of the builders when they were on the island with sustenance and accommodation.

Japan's Ambassador to Samoa, Keisuke Zenta said Apolima's safe house is a testament to the long friendship between Japan and Samoa.

"Japan takes immense pride in contributing to this community and we extend our warmest wishes for the continued well-being and prosperity of its residents," he added. "May this safe house stand strong against the winds of change, and may it provide comfort and security for generations to come."

Meanwhile, the Island's residents have acknowledged Ofeira Faasau Morjaan who encouraged and helped put together the project, and connected the village with Lefaotogi Paletasala of Sucon who was the architect for the project.

Transworks Contractors were the contractors for the project.

In a moving ceremony, the residents gifted the Japanese Ambassador and his delegation a special ietoga (fine mat/ie lauie) with the Japanese flag as its decoration.

The people of Apolima showed their appreciation through their hospitality, smiles, food and drinks as well as stories.

The safe house is equipped with one large room, two small rooms, a storage area, a kitchen, four toilets and shower rooms and a 3.5 kilolitre water supply. The structure stands ready to provide refuge during unpredictable natural disasters such as tropical cyclones.