Governor travels to Virgin Islands for Coral Reef Task Force meeting

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Gov Lemanu P. S. Mauga was on Monday night’s flight, Oct. 16, 2023 on his way to attend the Coral Reef Task Force meeting scheduled Oct 21- 28 in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. During his absence Lt. Gov. Talauega E.V. Ale will serve as acting Governor.

According to a press release from the Governor’s Office, the meeting provides an opportunity for stakeholders to come together and “discuss key issues pertaining to the preservation of these invaluable ecosystems.”

Of particular interest is the upcoming public meeting set for Thursday, Oct. 26, which aims to engage community members in shaping strategies that can effectively address challenges faced by coral reefs.

During his travels, Gov. Lemanu will take the opportunity to connect with military service members and their families stationed in both Hawaii and Tampa, Florida.

Lemanu is accompanied by Commander Alapati Fano, and staff.

The task force is composed of representatives from thirteen federal agencies, seven US states and territories, as well as three Freely Associated States and commonwealths. This gathering serves to reinforce collaborative efforts towards coral reef conservation.

The Coral Reef Taskforce was founded in 1998 and American Samoa was one of the seven original members.