Prime Minister Confirms Incentives for Athletes Representing Samoa at International Events

2026-02-10 - 17:49

The Samoa Prime Minister has confirmed that athletes representing Samoa at international events and global competitions will be rewarded for their efforts through a Government incentive initiative. It has been two years since the Pacific Games and other international events where Samoan athletes secured medals, but no incentives has been given out. This issue was raised with Prime Minister Hon Laaulialemalietoa Polataivao Fosi Schmidt during his weekly press conference. He confirmed that incentives will be provided for athletes, and those who had missed out from more recent international events, would also be considered. Laaulialemalietoa said he has requested a list of all medal winners who should have received rewards. “Sa ou faatonuina le Matagaluega o Taaloga e aumai uma faamaumauga o pine sa tatau ona totogi.” In his first interview with the media last year the Prime Minister had said the Faatuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi government had allocated an estimated $30 million tala for sports. At the time, the Prime Minister acknowledged the growth of all sports in Samoa, and pledged to prioritise the development of sports in Samoa. Samoa has natural sporting talent that can compete at the international level if the right support is given, Laaulialemalietoa told local media. The Prime Minister added that Government must ensure it is giving the right support to each sporting body. “A thorough assessment of needs and governing structures must be carried out before assistance is provided.: In a proactive approach, the Prime Minister said he has also asked the Ministry for background information on all athletes who have won medals, as well as a list of all international tournaments, past and upcoming. Greenology is Samoa’s leading provider of ICT Solutions! “Ua uma na faataatia faiga faavae a le Malo. Pine auro – maua le award poo le ponesi.. O lea la e faatali..” “Ou te iloa e iai tatou pine ia na maua mai i taaloga mulimuli nei.. “Ao lea e faatali, e le o suia tatou faiga faavae, o la e maua taui mo i latou e ausia pine auro.” The Prime Minister assured the nation that once reviews are complete, athletes can be confident their contributions will be recognised. During the Pacific Games in 2023 Team Samoa achieved a strong 4th place securing a total of 76 medals, 34 gold, 19 silver and 23 bronze.