The SNITT commenced itβs first meeting of 2026 to present updates of Invasive Species management initiatives conducted since the last meeting in August 2025.
The meeting was chaired by the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and brought together members of the SNITT Committee which include the Samoa Conservation Society, Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries – Samoa, Samoa Umbrella of Non-Governmental Organisations, Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development, the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme, Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme – SPREP, National University of Samoa and the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa.A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the design of the Samoa IAS Information system which is financially supported and coordinated by the GEF-7 Samoa IAS Project. The design of the system was presented to the SNITT for their feedback and consult on how the system can be user friendly not only to the Public but also to different Government agencies, NGOs and Research Institutions.The Information system is expected to be accessed by the Public and different stakeholders to view species specific data for Samoa and publications on IAS through an interactive Dashboard. This initiative will strengthen national data management, improve coordination among stakeholders, and support evidence-based decision-making for the effective management of IAS in Samoa.The SNITT is a technical working group of local IS experts and practitioners from various government agencies and organizations dedicated to effectively managing Invasive species in Samoa. The SNITT meetings are financially supported by the GEF-7 Samoa IAS project.The Ministry would like to thank the different members of the SNITT for their ongoing dedication in working to reduce the impacts of Invasive species on Samoa environment, economy and livelihoods.