The Third Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC) Meeting for the Project for Promotion of Regional Initiative on Solid Waste Management in Pacific Island Countries – Phase 3 (J-PRISM3) was convened on Friday, 23 October 2026, at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) Tafaigata Environmental Education Centre led by the Waste Management and Pollution Control Division.
The meeting brought together representatives of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), government ministries, partner organisations and the J-PRISM3 Project Team to assess implementation progress, address challenges and agree on priorities for the Annual Work Plan covering the remaining project period.
The key achievements under J-PRISM3 include the replacement and commissioning of the Tafaigata Landfill weighbridge in July 2026, technical assistance for future landfill development planning, and baseline surveys supporting the pilot waste segregation initiative in Tanoaleia and Vailuutai, focusing on PET bottles and aluminium cans. Capacity-building activities have also strengthened officers’ skills in landfill operations, waste data management and sustainable waste management practices.
Despite these achievements, Samoa continues to face challenges associated with increasing waste volumes, limited landfill capacity and operational constraints. With less than two years remaining under the project, priorities include advancing landfill improvement plans, strengthening waste data management and integrating technical knowledge into daily operations and future planning.
The Ministry acknowledges the Government of Japan, through JICA, for its continued technical assistance, alongside SPREP and other partners for their contributions to strengthening sustainable waste management in Samoa.