Samoa

The purpose of this Country Strategy Paper (CSP) is to provide a framework for EC co-operation with Samoa under the Cotonou Agreement. The framework is based on global objectives of EC-ACP co-operation, Samoa’s own development policy, an analysis of the political and economic situation in the country, and an assessment of the past co-operation programmes of the EC and other donors. It concludes with the proposed EC response strategy of the 10th EDF and an Indicative Programme.

Samoa consists of two large islands and six smaller ones, situated in the Pacific ocean, with a land area of 2,935 sq km and an EEZ of 120,000 sq km. It is a Polynesian country with an ethnically homogeneous population of around 185,000.

Under the 9th EDF the focal sector was the improvement of the quality of public health through the development, management and conservation of water resources and the disposal of waste water, in the framework of sustainable development of Samoa's economic and social environment.

Since its independence in 1962 Samoa has enjoyed political stability.

The Samoan economy registered solid growth, low inflation, improved public finances and international reserve levels, and outperformed comparable countries both within and outside the region. The GDP per capita is about US $2042 (€ 1600) in 2004. The level of public debt (in relation to GDP) has steadily declined from over 90% to about 50%. Samoa also made considerable progress toward the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. Major challenges facing the Government in the medium term are to maintain a stable macro-economic framework, to continue to implement its financial and economic reform programme and to stimulate private sector development.

Although land resources are modest, the country is well endowed with land suitable for agricultural production. The sector has a substantial subsistence base and continues to provide livelihood for over 60% of the population and a high level of domestic food security. Fisheries, coconut products (copra, oil and cream) are the main export commodities.

Under the 10th EDF, the indicative allocation in terms of programmable resources (A envelope) amounts to € 30 million, while the B envelope, destined for unforeseen needs which may arise (for example due to the islands high vulnerability to natural disasters) is € 1.3 million. The focal sector under the 10th EDF is defined as public health enhancement through a water sector policy support programme. The support will extend access to safe water supply and basic sanitation, strengthen sustainable water resource management. It is proposed that € 25.5 million (85% A-envelope) is allocated to this purpose. 15% of the A envelope (or €4.5 million) will support other programmes such as initiatives for Non-State Actors, and a Technical Co-operation Facility which will provide a funding basis for necessary Technical Assistance, studies and EDF-related training and possibly support for good governance.