European External Action Service
European External Action Service
02/22/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/22/2026 23:01
EU Ambassador Launched the National Drought Policy in Samoa
Apia, Samoa - The European Union Ambassador to the Pacific, H.E Barbara Plinkert, launched the National Drought Policy on 22 February 2026 during the Water sector Annual Progress review in presence of the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, H.E, Ale Vena Ale, government officials, development partners, and stakeholders from the water sector. The policy, funded by the European Union, aims to enhance Samoa's resilience to droughts and to improve water management practices.
The National Drought Policy is a key component of the Samoa Water Sector Plan, which outlines the government's strategy for improving the water sector. The policy provides a framework for managing droughts, establish early warning systems, promoting water conservation, and improving the efficiency of water use. The European Union funded EUR 13.5 million to support the development of the water sector in Samoa, including the National Drought Policy. This funding is part of the EU's broader commitment to supporting Samoa's development priorities, including the Samoa Water Sector Plan.
Quote of the EU Ambassador
"The European Union as donor is deeply committed to support Samoa in the Water sector, as we have been doing it in the past years. The water, sanitation and hygiene sector is fundamental to the health, well-being, and economic development and ensuring that this resource will not be scarce is the guarantee for development". This policy framework provides a roadmap for building resilience and ensuring sustainable development in the face of climate change."
(ENDS)
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