The village of Mutiatele has successfully completed implementation activities under the Tsunami Ready Recognition Programme (TRRP), marking another important milestone in Samoa’s ongoing efforts to strengthen tsunami preparedness and build resilient coastal communities. 
Implemented by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), through the Disaster Management Office (DMO) and the Samoa Meteorological Service, the programme continues to equip communities with the knowledge, tools, and practical measures needed to prepare for tsunami hazards and respond effectively when warnings are issued. 
As part of the programme, official tsunami hazard zone and evacuation route signs were installed at key locations throughout the village. 
These signs provide clear and easily recognisable guidance to safe evacuation routes and designated assembly areas, helping residents and visitors move quickly to higher ground during a tsunami emergency. Their visibility and accessibility are essential in reducing confusion and supporting timely evacuations when every second counts. 
These signs provide clear and easily recognisable guidance to safe evacuation routes and designated assembly areas, helping residents and visitors move quickly to higher ground during a tsunami emergency. Their visibility and accessibility are essential in reducing confusion and supporting timely evacuations when every second counts. Samoa launched the expanded national Tsunami Ready Recognition Programme in May 2026, with the goal of supporting 37 coastal villages on their journey towards internationally recognised Tsunami Ready status, while also renewing the recognition of Savaia, the Pacific’s first UNESCO-IOC Tsunami Ready community, first recognised in 2017. 
Each participating village, including Mutiatele, represents another step towards achieving this national vision of safer and more resilient communities.
Each participating village, including Mutiatele, represents another step towards achieving this national vision of safer and more resilient communities.MNRE commends the people of Mutiatele for their commitment and active participation throughout the programme. The Ministry also extends its sincere appreciation to UNESCO and USAID for their continued financial and technical support in advancing the Tsunami Ready Recognition Programme across Samoa. 
