The cabinet has appointed the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF) with a new chief executive officer, Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt announced during a Friday press conference.

Afamasaga Taimalietane Matamua has been named the new CEO. She previously served as assistant CEO and was involved in policy planning and communication division coordination within the ministry.

According to an earlier government report, Afamasaga played a leading role in developing the country’s first Agricultural Sector Plan 2011–2015.

She is a graduate of Samoa College and holds a bachelor’s degree and a postgraduate diploma in agriculture and agricultural economics from the University of the South Pacific’s Alafua campus.

The prime minister said Afamasaga has worked in the ministry for 26 years and that the Cabinet was satisfied with her selection.

"The minister and the ministry have agreed to change the CEO for preparations for the future." He also thanked the former CEO, Dr Seuseu Joseph Tauati, noting future opportunities ahead, saying that "one door closes and another door opens."

The former CEO, Seuseu, was appointed in March 2023 for a three-year term. He previously led the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa and has a background in molecular biology and phytopathology.