The Government of Samoa has today marked another significant milestone under the District Development Programme (DDP) with the formal signing of Funding Agreements between the Government and District Councils.
The Funding Agreements represent the Government’s trust and commitment to empowering District Councils to manage and implement development priorities for their people, families, villages, and districts. Each district will receive $1.8 million to support locally identified development initiatives.
The ceremony, hosted by the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development (MWCSD), was attended by representatives from 48 districts participating in the initial signing. This milestone signals the commencement of the implementation phase of the Government’s $91.8 million national investment, approved by Parliament for the Financial Year 2025–2026, benefiting all 51 districts across Samoa.
The District Development Programme reflects the Government’s policy direction to strengthen community-led development, enabling districts to lead and deliver their own priorities within national policy and accountability frameworks.
The programme commenced with a prayer service led by the Honourable Minister, Susuga Hon. Seuamuli Fasi Toma, acknowledging divine guidance and unity in advancing national development.
The keynote address was delivered by the Honourable Prime Minister, Hon. Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt, who emphasised the importance of collective responsibility, sound governance, and prudent financial management to ensure that public funds deliver meaningful and measurable outcomes for all communities.
The Prime Minister also announced the temporary postponement of the $150 Back-to-School Assistance payment until after the by-election process concludes, with disbursement scheduled to commence following the election on 28 February 2026. This measure ensures transparency and integrity in all public financial processes. The release of funds will proceed in accordance with established guidelines and compliance requirements administered by the Ministry.
The event concluded with the formal signing of Funding Agreements by 48 District Councils in the presence of the Minister of Finance and the Minister for Women, Community and Social Development. The Attorney General’s Office and the Ministry of Finance were also present to witness and oversee the process.
Following approval of each district’s Annual Plan and Budget by the District Development Programme Steering Committee, the 48 districts became eligible to sign their respective agreements for the release of the allocated $1.8 million per district.
Submission of the required documentation to the Ministry of Finance will enable the initial disbursement of 70% of allocated funds into the respective District Council bank accounts.
The Government reaffirms its commitment to strengthening district leadership, accountability, and shared prosperity under the guiding principle:
“Atina’e Fa’atasi ma Manuia Fa’atasi”
Developing Together, Prospering Together
