Samoa’s efforts in fighting invasive species was boosted as the New Zealand government strengthened the Pacific's environmental resilience, by committing NZ$20.6 million ($33.5m tala).

The funding is for the Pacific Regional Invasive Species Management Support Service (PRISMSS) to support the implementation of the Restoring Island Resilience (RIR) Project led by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).

This is a regional mechanism that facilitates the scaling up of invasive species management for biodiversity protection in the Pacific in collaboration with leading organisations. It also supports countries and communities with resources to take action against invasive species threats to their island ecosystems and resilience.

The funding arrangement was officially signed between SPREP and the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (NZMFAT) in June 2023. The main aim of the PRISMSS called the Restoring Island Resilience project is to improve the livelihoods and climate change resilience of Pacific Island countries and Territories (PICTS).

This would be achieved by reducing the impact of invasive species on their natural and agricultural ecosystems.

The funding will also focus on developing PRISMSS and expanding its five invasive species management programmes throughout the region.

These are to prevent the arrival, establishment and spread of invasive species, have a predator free Pacific, management of high priority weeds, biological control of widespread weeds and priority area ecological restoration. 

SPREP Invasive Species Adviser, David Moverley said the generous support from the New Zealand government will be instrumental in continuing the vital work PRISMSS does along with Pacific members and other significant donors to strengthening the foundations of a bio diverse and resilient Pacific.

“Receiving this funding support not only underscores the importance of our mission but it also demonstrates the ongoing willingness and commitment of the New Zealand government to improving the livelihoods and resilience of Pacific Island communities,” said Mr. Moverley. 

“Through the PRISMSS- Restoring Island Resilience project, we are not only addressing immediate environmental threats but are also investing in the long-term resilience and health of our island ecosystems and communities to the growing impacts of climate change. Collaborative ventures like this set a precedent for what we can achieve when nations come together to safeguard our shared environment."

Invasive species such as rats, wild pigs and invasive plants are the leading driver of bio-diversity loss in the Pacific, not only do they outcompete native species but they also harm crops and intensify ecosystem degradation. This further increases the susceptibility of Pacific communities to the devastating effects of climate change and natural disasters.