The two pig brig traps set up in Savai'i earlier this month to capture feral pigs was hailed a success after it captured several pigs at Sapapali'i last week using its meticulous design. 

The project is made possible through a partnership between the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (M.A.F.), Pig Brig Trap Company from the United States of America and the Market Development Facility (M.D.F.). 

The project was launched on 3 October this year, as an initiative to prevent feral pigs from destroying local plantations, crops and vegetables. 

A statement from the ministry explained that the trap set up at Sapapali'i was strategically located to maximise its effectiveness. 

"We baited it with irresistible food to lure the pigs in. Once inside, the trigger mechanism worked flawlessly, safely containing the pigs without causing harm," the statement read. 

"Our teamwork and planning paid off, as we successfully trapped eight feral pigs. This not only helps manage the feral pig population but also minimise their impact on the local ecosystem."

Speaking at the launching of the initiative earlier this month at the Apita o Pisaga Hall in Salelologa, the Minister for Agriculture, La'auli Leuatea Schmidt said setting up pig brigs trap is a way to reach out to the community in regard to the increased damages of farms and plantations caused by feral pigs. 

He also acknowledged the partnership that made the project a reality. 

"This has been one of the major threats to agriculture for such a long time," La'auli said. 

"We have so many feral pigs and cows out there destroying our crops and vegetable gardens. It's frustrating when you work so hard to plant your crops hoping that it would provide for your family and earn from it, only to be destroyed by these wild animals on the loose. 

"All farmers across the country can relate to this problem and have faced this issue for so many years. This has led to other problems of not having enough crops to export and sell at our local markets."

La'auli said they have been looking for solutions to the long-standing problem. 

"Back in the days every farmer used to have a gun to shoot or scare the feral pigs and cows away. However, the Ministry of Police has enforced the law and collected all unlicensed firearms so a lot of the farmers don't own a gun anymore.

"But I do encourage our farmers to go through the proper process if you want to purchase a gun to protect your plantation. You can apply for a firearm license and get proper training from the Ministry of Police. 

"We did not stop looking for solutions to this problem and we approached our partners for their help and assistance.

"That's how we were able to get these brig traps from America."

La'auli said the plan is for every constituency in the country to have their own pig brigs trap. 

"But for now, we have two and we have ordered 10 more traps; five for Upolu and five for Savai'i. 

"The plan is to give it to the district development councils to monitor and use it for each and every constituency in the country. 

"They also decide how they will use the pigs that are captured in the brigs trap."