Local sporting bodies have welcomed the official launch of the Ministry of Sports and Recreation.

A dedication service to mark the official commencement of the newly established Ministry took place at the Aquatic Center, Tuanaimato on Monday.

National weightlifting coach, Tuaopepe Jerry Wallwork credited the government for the new Ministry where all sporting bodies can inquire directly instead of running from office to office. 

He said the establishment of the  Ministry dedicated to the development of sports was a long overdue commitment. 

“It’s a huge bonus to have it here [at Tuanaimato] and we’re happy to hear the comments from the Prime Minister about developing local talents,” Tuaopepe said in an interview with the Samoa Observer. 

“It’s an aspect that I’ve encouraged in my 30 years of coaching, to develop local talents you can become just as good as anyone else like overseas and we’ve proven it. 

“And I see the Prime Minister is on the same path to develop local talent and that is what we believe in.”

Tuaopepe added with the new Ministry he hoped they give sporting bodies the support they needed.

“I want to commend the Minister for taking the lead to move here [at Tuanaimato] and we are looking forward to it…we are excited.”

The new Ministry encompasses the Sports division previously under the Ministry of Education Sports and Culture, the Samoa Sports Facility Authority (S.S.F.A.) and recreational parks formerly under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (M.N.R.E.).

Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mata’afa in her keynote address said this was a significant milestone for the country. 

Fiame said Samoa has a proud history of producing world class athletes. 

"With a dedicated ministry with world-class facilities and well-designed programmes and policies, we can nurture even more local talent to achieve global recognition,” she said.

“Priority will be given to ensuring local and national sports are well organised to develop the talents we have. 

“The government will continue to invest in sports through its budget provisions with a commitment to increase this funding in line with the ministry's growing needs. This financial investment underscores our dedication to building a robust infrastructure for sports in Samoa.”  

Fiame noted the new journey was dedicated to the enhancement and enrichment of sports and recreation in Samoa. 

She said the creation of M.S.R. is not just a governmental restructuring; it’s a testament to our commitment to fostering a culture of excellence in sports, and providing our citizens with amble opportunities for recreational activities. 

The ministry is tasked with elevating sports in all aspects, from developing programmes, to sports facilities that are fit for purpose and comply with international standards.  

The ministry’s other core function is to provide better facilities for the public and enhance the quality of life for all Samoans. 

It also plays a crucial regulatory role in the sports sector, an essential role that will help maintain the integrity of sports, prevent corruption and promote fair play, said the Prime Minister. 

The Minister for M.S.R., Laumatiamanu Ringo Purcell said the drafting of the Ministry’s laws were in progress.

He stressed the important role of the ministry to regulate sporting bodies and ensure the various sports are proactive in their development. 

Laumatiamanu lamented ongoing issues with sporting bodies that have split affecting the development of athletes. 

From the government’s perspective, he said, there were many sports groups that seek assistance to attend overseas tournaments but are inactive the whole year and had no development plan. 

He said these are ongoing issues citing sports bodies that have taken their matters to court and this was attributed to the absence of a regulatory body for sports to intervene and resolve matters. 

He added the Ministry is looking into legislation that brings together all the sporting bodies under one umbrella.