(PRESS RELEASE)- The Ministry of Customs and Revenue (MCR) is in receipt of new wireless radio units & systems, as well as new uniforms for Customs staff from the New Zealand Customs Services. The official handover of this donation was held at the Customs Office in Matautu on Thursday 3rd October 2024.
This ceremony is indeed another milestone in the continuous partnership between the two services and affirms the long-standing and collaborative relationship between the Governments of Samoa and New Zealand.
Officiated by Reverend Elder Molī Molī of the EFKS Matautu-tai parish, the sermon was on the theme of cheerful giving, emphasizing the significance of the act of giving, born out of love and generosity. An act that was shown by NZCS for MCR, a true testament of the partnership between the two governments in planting the seed of prosperity, that benefit not only ourselves but also others.
The High Commissioner of New Zealand to Samoa, H.E Sialei Van Toor, stressed the importance of the donated equipment and uniform in ensuring MCR can deliver a safe and successful CHOGM.
She further emphasized that the benefits of the equipment will extend beyond CHOGM as it will bolster communication and border security, enabling MCR to manage risks at the border and assures national security. The donation of the below listed items and delivery of capacity programs in many forms, reaffirms New Zealand’s commitment to deepening our cooperation and mutual efforts
• 30 Motorola two-way radio portables
• 2 Motorola base set radios
• Installation of 2 VHF radio antennae for Faleolo International Airport and MCR Port Office, Apia
• New Customs official uniform
The Chief Executive Officer of the MCR, Fonoti Talaitupu Li’a Taefu, accepted the kind donation and expressed sincere gratitude to the government of New Zealand for their continued support and key contribution to enhancing resources and staff capacity, through the NZ Customs Service. Fonoti also acknowledged the vital roles of the Pacific Senior Advisor- Border, Ms. Nicky Mark, as well as the contribution of the Pacific Liaison Officer, Hayden Godinet and senior officials of the NZCS, for their tireless efforts in making this initiative a success.
The ceremony concluded with the exchange of gift certificates and the handover of the donated items for the use of the Ministry.
