Samoa govt confirms cattle and sheep are ready for pick up

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — In a statement issued by the Samoa Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF) late last week, it was revealed that five cattle and five sheep are ready to be gifted by the Samoa government to the American Samoa government, and are currently being cared for at the Vaea compound.

Signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the ministry, Dr. Seuseu Tauati, the statement explained this came in response to queries raised in the American Samoa Senate Hearing as well as Samoa’s Parliament.

According to Dr. Seuseu’s statement, during the Atoa o Samoa discussions, representatives from both Samoa and American Samoa held discussions aimed at bolstering collaboration and addressing shared priorities, particularly in the sphere of food security.

The Samoa Observer is reporting that his included the provision of 600 giant clams along with relevant training to support food security initiatives, as well as tilapia to be supplied to American Samoa upon ASG’s readiness to receive them.

"Regarding the animal farm at Togitogiga that is operated by MAF there have been no formal agreements, including any lease arrangements made with American Samoa.

"Furthermore, to bolster animal production in American Samoa, Samoa has generously offered five cattle and five sheep," the statement reads. 

"These animals are currently being nurtured at the Vaea compound, awaiting collection by the American Samoa Department of Agriculture."

Dr. Seuseu confirmed with the Minister of Agriculture, La'auli Leuatea Schmidt that there have been "no formal agreements" between the two countries regarding land in Togitogiga. 

"Regarding the animal farm at Togitogiga that is operated by M.A.F., there have been no formal agreements, including any lease arrangements made with American Samoa.

"Looking ahead, M.A.F. is committed to advancing the genetics of our cattle industry. 

"Plans are underway for the importation of bull semen for artificial insemination, scheduled to commence in the coming months. 

"Additionally, discussions with the cattle industry in Australia are progressing, to import young cattle to enhance our breeding stock. We have extended an invitation for American Samoa to partake in these discussions and explore the possibility of joint cattle imports via sea transport."

"Dr. Seuseu expressed sincere gratitude to the American Samoa Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources and the American Samoa Department of Agriculture for their close collaboration, emphasizing their instrumental role in driving sustainable development in agriculture and fisheries in the region."

(Source: Samoa Observer)