Samoa is mourning the loss of former cabinet minister Faumuina Tiatia Faaolatane Liuga who passed away at the age of 79. 

His death marks the end of an era of tireless service to his country, family, and community.

Born in Papa i Palauli, Savai'i, Faumuina's life was a testament to the dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others. 

Educated at Leulumoega Fou College in Malua and with a degree in Economics from the National University of Samoa (1982-1984), he later earned an MBA from Washington International University in 1999. 

His early education and expertise laid the foundation for a distinguished career both in Samoa and abroad.

Faumuina's professional journey spanned the globe. 

From 1967 to 1997, he worked with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), serving in countries like the Philippines, Fiji, Sudan, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Pakistan. 

His contributions extended to Iraq, where he served as Chief Administrator for the UN Oil-for-Food Programme from 1997-1998, before taking on a key role as Director of Administration for the UN Mission to East Timor. 

He also served as the Chief Administrator for the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Georgia, solidifying his reputation as a global leader committed to peace, stability, and development.

In 2001, Faumuina entered Samoa’s political landscape after being elected to the Legislative Assembly as the member of parliament for Palauli-Le-Falefa. 

His political career saw him rise through the ranks of the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) where he held several key ministerial roles. 

From 2001 to 2006, he served as the Minister of Works, Transport, and Infrastructure. 

After his re-election in 2006, he took on the role of Minister of Natural Resources and Environment. 

In 2011, Faumuina was appointed Minister of Finance, a role he held until 2014 when he resigned from the cabinet, and Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi took over the portfolio. 

He remained involved in government as the Associate Minister for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

His commitment to Samoa’s progress and development never wavered. 

Despite stepping down from cabinet, Faumuina remained deeply involved in the political landscape, even running for the position of Deputy Leader for the HRPP caucus in 2016, which he lost to Fiame Naomi Mata'afa. 

His career ultimately came to an end when he lost his seat in the 2021 general elections. Yet, his impact on the country and its people is undeniable.

By Saturday evening, the news of his passing reverberated across social media, with relatives, friends, and former colleagues expressing their sadness. 

Many shared heartfelt memories of Faumuina, reflecting on his leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication. 

His life was a legacy of professional achievements and of service to his family, village, district, and Samoa. 

He was remembered as a leader who worked tirelessly for his family and community, exemplifying a heart of service in every facet of his life.