14 October 2016
The groundbreaking ceremony of the Project for the Enhancement of Safety of Apia Port took place earlier this morning at Matautu-Tai.
The main purpose of the project is to maintain the safety of port users through the rehabilitation and improvement of wharf, yard, and ancillary facilities.
The Prime Minister said that when this project completes in June 2018, another 137 meters will be added to the length of the wharf which will then be 302 meters in length.
Tuilaepa acknowledged Japan’s assistance for the second time in extending and upgrading the Apia wharf; and also assisting Samoa in other sectors.
“We have over the last 20 years witnessed the continued support of the Government of Japan to the construction and upgrading of ports, including the fishery wharf facilities, as well as improved interisland and international ferry services,” said the Prime Minister.
“The impact of Japan’s assistance to the transport sector has resonated in significant progress, in the key growth sectors of the economy, namely tourism and agriculture and fishery.
“We welcome the aim of the project which is to ensure that there is enhancement of the safety of the Apia Port.”
Tuilaepa said improved transportation is fundamental to the development of small island states including Samoa, in order to address the challenges of isolation and distance from markets.
“May this ground breaking ceremony break open new doors to job and other economic opportunities for Samoa.”
Tuimaugaoalii in his remarks assured his Government’s continuous support for Samoa.
“We can call the port as a “Life Line” to sustain activity of Samoan people, especially agricultural crops, fish food, fuel etc, and of course, passengers of cruise ship has a high priority for an engine of tourism” Tuimaugaoalii Kazumasa Shibuta.
###
