By: Jasmin Netzler-Iose, Government Press Secretariat Office.
Thanks to the Government and people of Japan through its Embassy in Samoa led by Ambassador Suzuki Ryotaro, the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) will soon be getting 3 new vehicles for its fleet.
This is a much-needed assistance to ensure the effective services of the authority in response to emergencies.
The assistance was formalised this morning at the Embassy of Japan in Samoa with the signing of the Grant Contract between SFESA Commissioner Tanuvasa Oloapu Petone Mauga and Ambassador of Japan to Samoa H.E. Suzuki Ryotaro.
The assistance is worth $356, 521 Samoan Tala under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP).
His Excellency Suzuki in his remarks said the project will provide SFESA with the three new vehicles; two vans and one pick-up truck which Japan hopes will strengthen the Authority’s operational capacity and emergency services.
“The new vehicles provided through this grant will enable the Authority to expedite the deployment of staff to incident locations. This will also contribute to the safety and well-being of communities across Samoa.”
Mr. Suzuki said that since the establishment of SFESA, Japan has provided support through various development assistance programs.
“We have provided the Authority with various vehicles and equipment, including fire trucks, ambulances and rescue boats” that have been allocated to fire stations across the country.
Japan also through JICA programs have offered training programs and dispatched volunteers to help build staff capacity.
“We are proud to see that the Authority is actively applying our expertise and experience in its daily operations. The new vehicles provided under this project will further strengthen its capacity and boost public confidence in your service.”
He also guaranteed Japan’s commitment to supporting projects that enhance people’s lives and promote community resilience and congratulated SFESA, as well as offered well wishes for the successful implementation of this project.
Tanuvasa expressed the government, the board of directors and the authority’s sincere heartfelt gratitude to the Government and people of Japan through Ambassador Suzuki.
Reiterating that the 2 x 14-seater vans and 1 Nissan Double Cab, are important support towards the authority’s strengthening of its capacity and the effective deliverance of response efforts.
Also enhancing the reach of the authority to people faster in times of incidents leading to the improvement of service delivery.
He touched upon the relationship between SFESA and Japan noting that it has spanned over 50 years.
Tanuvasa said the provision of these vehicles will help to ensure there are enough staff out on the field at times of emergencies.
“With more transport for their deployment to locations of incidents, we can lift the quality of service to our people.”
He added transport is also needed to carry necessary equipment to emergencies.
Tanuvasa reiterated SFESA’s hope that this partnership will be maintained and continue.
The Commissioner was accompanied by Manager of Corporate Services Tauiliili Ah Ki Reupena, Assistant Commissioner of Operations Matau Matofai Esau and Principal Police and Planning Officer Natasha Darryl Mualia.
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