The Samoa Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries has officially launched its first Digital Media Hub at the TATTE Building in Apia, marking a transformative step in improving public engagement and information dissemination within the agriculture and fisheries sectors. This state-of-the-art facility is equipped with cutting-edge digital and audiovisual technologies aimed at producing timely, high-quality content that promotes awareness about food, agriculture, and fisheries in Samoa.
This initiative is significantly supported by the European Union through its Sustainable Transformation of Domestic Agrifood Systems (STODAS) project, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations. The Australian Government’s Market Development Facility has also contributed to the effort, underscoring an international commitment to enhance Samoa’s agricultural and fisheries sectors.
At the launch, Fuimaono Maiava Tito Asafo, the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, highlighted the Hub’s essential role in boosting efficiency and transparency in delivering vital information to stakeholders. He emphasized, “This Hub enhances our capacity to deliver timely, accurate agricultural and fisheries information, document results, and strengthen transparency across our programmes.”
The Digital Media Hub is central to the Ministry’s strategy to modernize communication with the public and sector stakeholders effectively. As the world increasingly shifts towards digital platforms, this initiative ensures that farmers, fishers, and partners can easily access relevant knowledge and services.
Inclusivity is a key feature of the Hub, as it aims to serve all communities, particularly those with limited internet access. The facility will improve the quality of printed materials and enhance television and radio programming, and will work in conjunction with existing extension and advisory services to ensure that essential information reaches rural and remote populations.
Barbara Plinkert, the European Union’s Ambassador to the Pacific, reinforced the strategic value of the Hub in strengthening the agriculture sector, which is vital for Samoa’s economic development, food security, and community livelihoods. “The European Union is proud to support the Samoa Digital Media Hub, which is more than a technical facility. It is a dynamic platform for knowledge-sharing, innovation, and connection,” she said, emphasizing the empowering potential of the Hub for farmers and agribusinesses.
Guangzhou Qu, FAO Subregional Coordinator for the Pacific Islands, congratulated the collaborative efforts behind this project, pointing out the significance of ensuring equitable access to nutritious food and reliable information regarding agriculture and fisheries.
The launch event gathered a diverse audience, including representatives from the Australian High Commission, government officials, and stakeholders from the agriculture and fisheries sectors, all optimistic about the positive outcomes that the Digital Media Hub will bring to Samoa’s agricultural and fishing communities. This initiative holds promise not only for enhancing current practices but also for empowering future generations within the industry.