Launch Ceremony for the Japan-Supported UNICEF Project for the Prevention of Drug Use among Children and Adolescents in Samoa
2026/4/24
Group Photo of Ceremony Participants
Remarks by Ambassador SUZUKI
Remarks by Deputy Prime Minister Mulipola
On 24 April 2026, a launch ceremony for the “Project for the Prevention Measures against Drug Use among Children and Adolescents in Samoa” was held, co-hosted by the Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration of Samoa, the Embassy of Japan in Samoa, and UNICEF. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molioo, Minister of Justice and Courts Administration Hon. Fesolai Apulu Tusiupu Tuigamala, Minister of Women, Community and Social Development Hon. Moefa’auo’uo Julius Ah Kui Tafunai, representatives of the Government of Samoa and the judiciary, development partners, as well as village representatives (matai) and community leaders. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration to address drug-related issues affecting children and adolescents.
Funded by the Government of Japan with US$900,000, the project will be implemented over four years from March 2026 to March 2030. It aims to comprehensively promote prevention of drug use, early intervention, and recovery support for a cumulative total of approximately 60,000 beneficiaries, including children, adolescents, and adults. Specifically, the project will strengthen counselling and rehabilitation services, conduct baseline research on drug use, improve child-sensitive justice and social service facilities, and promote community awareness activities, thereby supporting the realization of a safe and resilient society in Samoa.
Through this initiative, enhanced early intervention and rehabilitation support for approximately 600 adolescents, capacity building for around 100 professionals in the justice, social welfare, and health sectors, and the establishment of five child- and adolescent-friendly facilities are expected. Nationwide awareness-raising activities are also anticipated.
At the ceremony, Ambassador of Japan to Samoa H.E. Mr. Ryotaro SUZUKI emphasized that this cooperation reflects the people-centred development approach reaffirmed at PALM10, as well as the Healthy Islands Vision, which promotes inclusiveness, resilience, and the wellbeing of people in the Pacific region. He also reaffirmed Japan’s continued commitment to working closely with the Government of Samoa, UNICEF, and other stakeholders to help build a society in which children and adolescents can grow up in safety and security.
Funded by the Government of Japan with US$900,000, the project will be implemented over four years from March 2026 to March 2030. It aims to comprehensively promote prevention of drug use, early intervention, and recovery support for a cumulative total of approximately 60,000 beneficiaries, including children, adolescents, and adults. Specifically, the project will strengthen counselling and rehabilitation services, conduct baseline research on drug use, improve child-sensitive justice and social service facilities, and promote community awareness activities, thereby supporting the realization of a safe and resilient society in Samoa.
Through this initiative, enhanced early intervention and rehabilitation support for approximately 600 adolescents, capacity building for around 100 professionals in the justice, social welfare, and health sectors, and the establishment of five child- and adolescent-friendly facilities are expected. Nationwide awareness-raising activities are also anticipated.
At the ceremony, Ambassador of Japan to Samoa H.E. Mr. Ryotaro SUZUKI emphasized that this cooperation reflects the people-centred development approach reaffirmed at PALM10, as well as the Healthy Islands Vision, which promotes inclusiveness, resilience, and the wellbeing of people in the Pacific region. He also reaffirmed Japan’s continued commitment to working closely with the Government of Samoa, UNICEF, and other stakeholders to help build a society in which children and adolescents can grow up in safety and security.