Comparative Analysis of Water Sector Reforms
Tracking Progress in Asia and the Pacific
Phase 1- Assessing Water Sector Policies and Reforms - Country Briefs
Samoa
Appropriate arrangements for the water sector in Samoa are defined by its nature as a small Pacific island state. There is little irrigation and some hydropower development, and drinking water supply, drainage/flood mitigation, and ecosystem maintenance are the main water-related issues. Samoa has a cohesive, well-ordered and relatively prosperous society, although the nation as a whole is not wealthy, has limited resources and suffers periodically from natural disasters, and is significant recipient of aid, particularly from South Pacific neighbours.
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NATIONAL POLICIES AND REFORMS
National water-related policy exists but is considered inadequate; water sector review and revision of water-related law is in progress. Water resources recently have been brought under one ministry, but further progress in sector coordination awaits further review.
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WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
Progress in WRM practice is mixed. Environmental and social effects of projects generally are well considered, though there can be difficulties with traditional land tenure arrangements (which also provide the basis for water allocation). Undeveloped forest, catchment and wetland conservation practices pose a threat to surface water resources and aquatic ecosystems; management of ambient water quality also requires much more attention, although drinking water standards are well managed. Drainage and flood mitigation require more effort, to avoid the negative effects of settlement in flood-prone areas by poorer families.
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IMPROVING WATER SERVICES
Good progress is being made with building physical infrastructure for water supply, and ensuring that services are responsive to users. Drinking water is provided by state enterprise and there is a high level of accountability, with autonomy a long-term goal, and movement also towards significant private investment in sanitation and wastewater management.
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CONSERVING WATER
Because of the small land area, catchments are small and flows unreliable. There is state subsidy for water supply, although tariffs are designed to encourage efficient use while still being affordable. Good practice is being developed in service cost recovery and a participatory approach to service provision generally is taken. However, appropriate user education is at an early stage.
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PROMOTING REGIONAL COOPERATION
Samoa is an active participant in the Pacific Water Association and in other international exchanges through bilateral (e.g. with NZ Aid) and multilateral (eg through SOPAC and WMO) links. Samoa's island status limits the need for cooperation, except in terms of exchange of knowledge and technology.
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FOSTERING PARTICIPATION; CAPACITY BUILDING; NETWORKING
Samoa has a small population and a culture that favour participation, so there is good progress in engaging civil society (including, in particular, women) in water-related projects. Capacity building is undertaken within the limits of national resources supplemented by assistance from IOs; international networking also is pursued, within limits set by resources.
Topics 
Water 
