Local farmers and other key stakeholders gathered this week to draw up an investment plan to garner the support of donors to increase production and market access for three main crops, cocoa, coconut, and taro.

The inception workshop for Samoa’s Hand in Hand Initiative (HiHi) Investment was held at the Sheraton Hotel hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (M.A.F.) in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (F.A.O.). 

Samoa got the green light to join the HiHi Investment initiative in June and its first concept will focus on key value chain commodities namely cocoa, coconut, and taro. 

The three crops are integral to Samoa’s cultural heritage, and daily sustenance and have contributed to the country’s economic growth. 

The inception workshop informed key stakeholders of the HiHi initiative and got feedback on the economic and financial analysis to develop the investment plan driven by national priorities and processes. 

M.A.F. Assistant Chief Executive Officer for Policy and Planning, Matatumua Taimalietane Matatumua said a component of the investment is mechanisation or using machinery to assist farmers. 

To assist farmers with the shortage of manpower, Matatumua said machinery and tools could drive the process to maximise the production of the key crops. 

She added Samoa’s investment plan needs to be evidence-based and supported by statistics and information. The first investment plan focuses on the selected crops and there is still a window for Samoa to draw up a plan for livestock and fisheries. 

Other Pacific nations have already joined the HiHi incentive. Samoa’s opportunity was made possible after some Pacific islands discontinued their initiative. 

The investment plan will be presented by the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries La’auli Leuatea Schmidt in October to donor partners such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and others.

La’auli said the HiHi initiative will greatly assist Samoa in implementing transformative programs to eradicate poverty, end hunger and malnutrition, and reduce inequality. 

"We are confident that our investment plans will not only enhance the productivity and sustainability of our cocoa, taro, and coconut sectors but also uplift the livelihoods of our farmers and communities," he said.

"Cocoa, taro, and coconut are more than just crops to us. They are integral components of our cultural heritage, our daily sustenance, and our economic backbone. 

"By focusing on these three key commodities, we are not only preserving our tradition but also unlocking the potential for increased productivity, value addition, and market access." 

La'auli urged stakeholders to be innovative, resilient, and forward-thinking. 

"Together, we can transform our agricultural landscape, improve the livelihoods of our farmers, and contribute to the overall well-being of our nation."

The F.A.O. Sub-Regional Coordinator, Xiangjun Yao also delivered a speech at the event.