Admin dedicates over $30M to three major infrastructure projects for DOH

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Pula and Pulu Administration has dedicated over $30 million to three major infrastructural projects that are priorities for the American Samoa Department of Health. The groundbreaking ceremony was held on Tuesday at the DOH Health Clinic in Tafuna.

These development projects are the Behavioral Health Service Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Center, an extension of the Veterinary Clinic, and the expansion of the Tafuna clinic.

These projects are funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICE DRUG & ALCOHOL REHABILITATION CENTER

Gov. Pulaali’i N. Pula emphasized the serious issue of hard drugs in the territory and the necessity for a rehabilitation center. He called for a collaborative effort involving the Office of Samoan Affairs, village chiefs, and various denominations throughout the territory.

“The first project, which costs over $20 million, is the Behavioral Health Services Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Clinic. I am very grateful that we are constructing this facility because it is truly needed,” he said.

It is widely acknowledged that American Samoa faces a drug crisis, and the governor believes that the rehabilitation center will play a crucial role in addressing this issue. 

“The government has a strategy to deal with drugs moving forward,” Gov. Pulaali’i stated. “Many of you may have heard that I have already asked Fa’aivae Iuli Alexander Godinet and the Office of Samoan Affairs to strengthen the councils and the villages in terms of cultural essence.”

In addition, the governor announced that ASG’s anti-drug task force will forge a partnership with the Office of Samoan Affairs. This collaboration aims to leverage the resources made available through the recent opioid settlement funds to strengthen initiatives targeting drug abuse prevention and recovery.

In addition, he emphasized the importance of community involvement by calling upon local church leaders to join in this comprehensive effort, encouraging a united front against substance abuse that encompasses various sectors of society.

“We will ask all church leaders in every village to join the task force, along with the Office of Samoan Affairs, as a community approach to tackle the drug issue in our territory. Our goal is that by the summer of 2027, the government and people of American Samoa will regain control over drugs.”

Governor Pulaali’i noted that the government’s primary objective will be to bolster security measures at critical checkpoints, including local borders, airports, maritime ports, and postal facilities, to combat the escalating drug-related community issues.

Key components of the plan involve implementing advanced training programs for public safety personnel, equipping them with specialized skills and knowledge to address and manage drug trafficking and associated crimes effectively.

“We will be requesting assistance from the federal government. That’s why this building, dedicated to Behavioral Health Services and drug and alcohol rehabilitation, is a key part of our community approach to addressing the drug problem in American Samoa,” the governor said.

He also highlighted that the newly established center will provide comprehensive services, addressing the needs of both individuals struggling with substance abuse and those requiring mental health care.

Gov. Pulaali’i pointed out that, after thorough consultations with medical professionals, it has become clear that schizophrenia is a prevalent diagnosis in the territory, despite the scarcity of detailed statistical data. Additionally, he noted that a substantial number of residents are also diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

The governor underscored that these mental health issues are critical challenges that profoundly affect community well-being and quality of life, necessitating a robust intervention strategy to support those in need.

VETERINARY CLINIC

The $2.4 million expansion of the Veterinary Clinic represents a significant milestone as the second major project in the community’s development plan.

Gov. Pulaali’i highlighted the critical importance of this facility, emphasizing that animals are a precious gift from God. This expansion aims to enhance the clinic’s capacity and services, ensuring that our beloved pets and wildlife receive the high-quality care they deserve.

With state-of-the-art equipment and a dedicated team of professionals, the upgraded clinic will not only serve our local population but also promote the well-being of animals throughout the region, he explained.

TAFUNA HEALTH CLINIC

The expansion of the Tafuna Health Clinic commenced construction earlier this week, and represents a substantial investment exceeding $13 million.

Governor Pulaali’i emphasized the necessity for the DOH and the LBJ Medical Center to collaborate effectively in order to elevate the quality of healthcare services available throughout the territory.

During his address, he underscored the critical role of the DOH in prevention and health awareness initiatives. He urged the department to actively engage with the community to foster a culture of health, aiming to reduce the incidence of illness through education and outreach.