The government officially inaugurated the $115 million West Coast Road Rehabilitation and Enhancement project, marking a significant leap in the country's infrastructure development. 

The completion of this vital road corridor, stretching from Saina to Faleolo, underscores Samoa’s commitment to building safer, climate-resilient infrastructure that will empower communities, bolster resilience, and inspire sustainable growth.

The momentous celebration attracted leaders from the government, parliament, key stakeholders, representatives from development partners and community members. 

Minister of Works, Transport, and Infrastructures, Olo Fiti Va’ai, addressed the gathering and spoke about the importance of this infrastructure upgrade for the nation; a project that has been in the works for 11 years. 

"The West Coast Road is the primary artery road on Upolu," he said. 

"It provides a vital land transport link connecting our capital Apia and the main trading port at Matautu, with the Faleolo International Airport, and Mulifanua wharf- our main gateway to Savaii.

"In short it facilitates a vital connection for our people and industries. Often referred to as the “backbone of Samoa’s economic corridor”-its’ upkeep is critical for Samoa’s economic and social well-being."

It provides a critical land transport link between Apia, the main trading port at Matautu, the Faleolo International Airport, and the Mulifanua Wharf, which is the gateway to Savaii, added Olo. 

The extensive project spans 24 kilometres and traverses eight districts, 28 villages, and hundreds of residential households. 

The completed road connects the village of Saina with Faleata No. 4 and extends to Satapuala in Aana Alofi No. 4. 

The total value of the upgrade stands at a remarkable $115 million, allocated as follows: $101.3 million for construction, $13.2 million for design and supervision services, and $0.5 million for land and property compensation.

"Such an undertaking requires not just funding, but time, planning, and that most critical of components- the willpower and commitment of people. 

"The people behind the jobs…..the people behind the organisations involved……the people who have been accommodating of their lands and property. The people of Samoa have cooperated and waited patiently to see the fruits of this labour.

The West Coast Road upgrade is a testament to the successful collaboration between Samoa’s Government and international development partners. The project received substantial support from the World Bank and the Government of Australia. 

“On behalf of the Government and the people of Samoa, I extend my deepest appreciation to our development partners,” Va’ai stated. “The World Bank and the Government of Australia provided 90% of the funding, amounting to $104 million, with the remaining 10% or $11 million contributed by the Government of Samoa.”

Roughton International Ltd, in conjunction with local engineering firm PLT Consultants Ltd, played a pivotal role in design and construction supervision throughout the project’s duration. 

“The involvement of these firms from the very start of the project until its completion last month has been invaluable."

Local firms, including Ah Liki Construction Ltd, the joint venture of Silva Transport Ltd, Ulia Construction Ltd, and T&N Toleafoa Ltd, and Ott Constructors Ltd, who undertook the majority of the construction work, also received accolades for their contributions. 

“Their commitment and capability in delivering quality civil construction work entirely within the country demonstrate our local capacity,” the Minister praised.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA), established in 2009, was instrumental in the project’s implementation. Olo commended the boards, CEOs, and staff, past and present, for their dedication. “Your contributions and perseverance have been critical to the success of this project,” he said.

The project also saw significant local cooperation, with residents from the eight districts, numerous villages, and hundreds of households showing patience and understanding throughout the roadwork process. “While we have provided monetary compensation for affected lands and properties, we deeply appreciate the value of your cooperation beyond financial terms,” Olo acknowledged.

As the new road is officially inaugurated, it stands not just as a vital transportation link but as a symbol of Samoa’s progress and resilience. “This road is a testament to our collective efforts and our enduring spirit as a nation,” he concluded. 

“May it serve our people well and stand as a lasting legacy of our commitment to a brighter, more sustainable future for Samoa.”