The management and oversight of the Matagialalua Friendship Park are set to transition to the Ministry of Sports and Recreation (M.S.R.) by the end of this month. 

Previously, the park, situated behind the Government Building was under the jurisdiction of the Samoa Tourism Authority (S.T.A.) since its inauguration in August 2022.

The Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O.) of the S.T.A. Toleafoa Pativaine Petaia-Tevita communicated this upcoming change to her staff in a meeting held last week. 

In response to the Samoa Observer, Laumatiamanu Ringo Purcell, the Minister for Sports and Recreation, confirmed that discussions regarding this transfer had commenced well before the ministry appointed its new Chief Executive Officer who started last week.  

"I understand that the C.E.O. of the ministry met with the C.E.O. of S.T.A. today to finalise the details of the decision," Laumatiamanu remarked. 

"I can confirm that the supervision and management of the park will be transferred under my ministry, with the initial discussions aiming for the transfer to occur on the 30th of this month."

In addition, Laumatiamanu noted that the eight employees currently managing the park under the S.T.A. will also transition to the M.S.R. "They too will be transferred under M.S.R.," he confirmed.

The Friendship Park, inaugurated by Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa on 26 August 2022, is a pivotal element of the Apia Waterfront Plan. 

This initiative aims to enhance public spaces along Apia's coastal waterfront for community enjoyment and to foster diverse commercial opportunities. 

As articulated by Prime Minister Fiame, the park was designed to create a safe, modern environment that connects people and places, allowing locals and tourists to relax and enjoy leisure activities amidst natural surroundings.

Since its opening, the park has garnered significant attention, attracting visitors of all ages who have shared their experiences across social media platforms.

The development of the Friendship Park was made possible through the financial support of the People’s Republic of China, in collaboration with the Municipality of Huizhou City in Guangdong Province. 

This park plays a crucial role in the broader Apia Waterfront development plan, which aims to encapsulate a unique Samoan experience, create a clean and inclusive environment, enhance public areas for community engagement, support local business initiatives, and strengthen connections between people and the sea.