The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), through the Division of Environment and Conservation, convened a community consultation workshop with representatives from selected villages across Upolu to strengthen collaborative efforts in addressing the impacts of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) on Samoa’s biodiversity and ecosystems. 
Held at Lava Hotel on 28 July 2026 
, the consultation brought together representatives from the villages of Paepaela, Samea, Fuailolo’o, Lalovi, Apolima Uta, Manono Uta, Samatau, Siufaga, Pata Falelatai, Matautu, Levi, Matamatanonofo, Falevai, Samai, and Apolima Tai.
, the consultation brought together representatives from the villages of Paepaela, Samea, Fuailolo’o, Lalovi, Apolima Uta, Manono Uta, Samatau, Siufaga, Pata Falelatai, Matautu, Levi, Matamatanonofo, Falevai, Samai, and Apolima Tai.
The workshop provided an opportunity for participants to review and validate the proposed Community-Based Invasive Alien Species (IAS) Management Plans and the accompanying Community-Based IAS Monitoring Framework, which are designed to strengthen village-led monitoring, reporting, and management of invasive alien species. Discussions also highlighted the importance of integrating these plans into existing Community Integrated Management Plans (CIMPs) to enhance local environmental governance and long-term ecosystem resilience. 
Participants were introduced to priority invasive alien species affecting Samoa’s natural environment, including invasive plants, birds, and mammals, while exploring practical approaches to early detection, monitoring, reporting, and community-based response measures. The consultation also encouraged participants to share local knowledge and provide valuable feedback to ensure the management plans reflect community priorities and realities.
As part of the programme, the technical presentation was delivered by Consultant Patea Loli Malo Setefano of XPMS & Associates Ltd., followed by discussions that provided participants with the opportunity to share their perspectives and recommendations towards the refinement of the proposed management plans.
This consultation was conducted under the GEF-7 Invasive Alien Species Project, under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) through the Division of Environment and Conservation, with support from the UNDP. The initiative reaffirms the shared commitment of MNRE, UNDP and local communities to protecting Samoa’s unique biodiversity 
, strengthening biosecurity efforts 
, and enhancing the resilience of ecosystems for present and future generations. 