Samoa continues to strengthen its commitment to protecting our environment, biodiversity and communities through responsible biosafety practices.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) through its Division of Environment and Conservation (DEC) hosted the National Validation Workshop for Samoa’s Fifth National Report on the Implementation of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety August 25, 2026 at Sheraton Samoa Aggie Greys Hotel & Bungalows, bringing together key government ministries, organizations, consultants and stakeholders to review and validate the draft report.
The workshop provides an important platform for stakeholders to reflect on Samoa’s progress, discuss key biosafety issues and challenges, and provide valuable input towards the finalization of the Fifth National Report.
The Cartagena Protocol provides a framework for the responsible application of modern biotechnology and for addressing potential risks associated with living modified organisms. For Samoa, this is particularly important given the significance of our unique biodiversity to our identity, culture, livelihoods and future generations.
The preparation of the Fifth National Report has been a collaborative effort involving government ministries, non-government organisations, civil society, academia and other stakeholders, with technical contributions from consultants Afioga Sala Josephine Stowers-Kolo and Ms. Rebecca Schuster.
The workshop programme included a presentation on the draft Fifth National Report, facilitated discussions on key thematic areas, and a question-and-answer session, providing participants with an opportunity to contribute to the validation process.
Biosafety is a shared responsibility. Through continued collaboration, transparency, accountability and innovation, Samoa can further strengthen its biosafety systems, safeguard its biodiversity and contribute to a safer, more sustainable and resilient future.
The Ministry acknowledges with appreciation the financial support provided by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the valuable contributions and continued partnership of all participating government ministries, non-government organizations, civil society, academia, consultants and stakeholders involved in the preparation and validation of Samoa’s Fifth National Report on the Implementation of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety.