An international wharf at Matautu is one of the many dreams the government plans to pursue should the Human Rights Protection Party win the upcoming General Elections.

 So revealed the caretaker, Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, Manu’alesagalala Enokati Posala in Parliament. He said the wharf is one of the major developments that are in the pipeline and are looking at completing it by 2018.

The Minister is also responsible for the Samoa Water Authority, Electric Power Corporation and host of other works-related portfolios.

“There is also the government’s plan for an international wharf at Vaiusu,” said Manu’a. 

“This is one of its dreams to develop the country. It will also provide employment…this is one of the main sources of income for Singapore. It is transshipment, which is something we should follow.”

The M.P for Faleata West, Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi said such development means that the people of Vaiusu should be consulted first. 

“What the village wants is to inform them of such works and what those plans are,” said Leala. 

In response, Manu’a said once negotiations are finalised and time is appropriate, the village will be consulted. 

Moving on to the Water Authority, the Minister noted there are works underway to improve water supply in Tapatapao, Falelauniu and parts of Faleata. 

The project is in partnership with Japan with an estimated cost of $36million. 

In Alaoa, there is also a project to pump water from the area to supply Magiagi and Moata’a. 

Manu’a said the same with Vailima where works are ongoing to ensure clean water is supplied to Tanugamanono, Moto’otua and part of Apia. 

He said the repair works for generators and water pipes at Lotosamasoni and Alaoa, affected by cyclone Evan, are making good progress.

On the electricity side, Manu’a said the renewable power dream from the government for 2017 is here. 

Pointing out to solar power in Tuanaimato and Faleolo, he said their work is 100 percent at this stage. 

He also announced negotiations have been done with a company to setup solar power in Savai’i and works will start soon.  

“Government is working on programmes so we can get electricity from wind, solar and water that will ensure the efficient supply.”

As for road works at Vailoa and Vaitele, Manu’a dismissed suggestions there should be footpaths on both side of the road. 

According to him, after a survey was conducted, they concluded that one side was enough to have footpaths while the other side will be used for cars and buses to pull on the side. 

Faleata East, M.P, Aveau Niko Palamo suggested that perhaps Samoa should follow New Zealand where they have a lane for bikes. 

“That will encourage our people to use a healthier method.”