Hon Fiame Naomi Mataafa addresses the official launch of International Firefighters Day and Sectoral Conference in Samoa, 2 May 2025.
Talofa, Talofa, talofa lava,
• Reverend Elder Moli Moli
• Members of Cabinet
• Members of the Diplomatic Corps
• Madam Chair, Afioga Aiono Meresaini Siaosi-Laulua, and Members of the SFESA
Board of Directors
• Chief Executive Officers
• Development Partners
• Distinguished Guests/ Sui o Nu’u ma Afioga – Ali’i ma Tamaitai
• Ladies and Gentlemen
On behalf of the Government of Samoa it is my pleasure to join you today to provide the Keynote Address to mark this International Firefighter’s Day.
Today, we gather not only as leaders, partners, and professionals — but as a grateful nation to mark International Firefighters’ Day, a global tribute to the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
This day carries deep significance.
It is a solemn reminder of the risks our firefighters and emergency responders face every time they are called to duty, whether it is in a raging fire, a storm, earthquake, a road accident, or a maritime incident and every type of emergency.
It is a day to honour those who have fallen in the line of duty, and to recognize those who continue to serve with unwavering courage, professionalism, and compassion.
But more than commemoration, Firefighters’ Day is a call to action — to ensure that our responders are equipped, supported, and respected.
It is a call for stronger policies, better training, and deeper collaboration across all government sectors to build safer communities and a more resilient Samoa.
The Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority (SFESA) stands at the core of Samoa’s national preparedness efforts.
The launch of its critical operational manuals signals a major strategic shift—one that expands the Authority’s vision and reinforces its role as a leader in emergency response.
This initiative marks a transition toward a more unified, coordinated, and future-ready approach to emergency preparedness across the country.
Our resilience as a nation is not determined only by how we respond in a crisis, but by how well we prepare in advance.
That preparation includes robust planning, sector-wide approach and coordination, including clear communication to all of which are fostered by forums like today’s celebration marked by this sectoral conference.
I commend the SFESA Board of Directors, the Commissioner and Executive team, management, and all staff for your steadfast leadership and commitment to service.
Your efforts were proven during the recent CHOGM operation, where SFESA exceeded expectations in delivering security, safety, and swift emergency response in collaboration with other key agencies.
You showed the region and the world that Samoa is capable and always ready.
That readiness was again tested during the HMNZS Manawanui incident where 75 lives were saved because of timely and expert action by firefighters and police officers.
That moment stands as a living example of the spirit of Firefighters’ Day: courage in crisis, teamwork under pressure, and service to humanity.
We are proud that the New Zealand Navy acknowledged these brave efforts through a Recognition Certificate Presentation held in Apia on March 3rd. Challenge coins and certificates were awarded to individuals who demonstrated exceptional bravery during the incident, and we join in celebrating them today as heroes in our midst.
I also take this opportunity to sincerely acknowledge the ongoing support of the Government and donor aid provided to SFESA over the years. SFESA is deeply grateful for the continued support from our development partners past, present, and ongoing. Your contributions have been vital to SFESA’s ability to operate, respond, and recover.
One of the keys aims of this conference is to strengthen those partnerships and to inspire new ones with the hope of securing further donor support toward SFESA’s future projects. In particular, the establishment of new fire stations and emergency response across the country remains a top priority.
Expanding our national coverage will ensure that we can respond to emergencies in a timely manner, with well-trained personnel, modern equipment, and a consistent standard of excellence across all districts.
We look forward to working closely with local and international partners who share this vision of building a safer Samoa for all.
Let us use this day and this conference to renew our commitment to supporting our firefighters through emergency services.Let us continue building strong partnerships, strengthening policies, and investing in the men and women who protect our people.
May International Firefighters’ Day remind us not only of sacrifice but of solidarity, service, and shared responsibility.
Together, let us build a safer, stronger and climate resilient Samoa.
Happy Firefighters Day
Soifua ma ia manuia.
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