Strengthening Data Collection through Partnership – Samoa Bureau of Statistics & FAO
On 4 July 2025, the Samoa Bureau of Statistics (SBS) was honoured to receive a generous
contribution of IT tablets from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
(FAO), officially handed over by Mr. Raushan Kumar, FAO Forestry Officer — a vital step
forward in strengthening Samoa’s national data systems.
This important handover ceremony marks another milestone in the long-standing
partnership between FAO and SBS, forged over many years of collaboration on agricultural
censuses, surveys, and technical support. The newly donated tablets will be deployed for
the upcoming 2025 Samoa Agriculture Survey (SAS) and other key data collection initiatives,
helping us produce high-quality, timely statistics to inform national planning and support
sustainable development.
Speaking on behalf of the Government of Samoa, SBS Acting Government Statistician Laulu
Siala Lova expressed heartfelt gratitude to FAO for their unwavering support. He also
acknowledged the dedicated contributions of Mr. Guy Oswald Obama, FAO’s International
Statistics Specialist, for his expert guidance and continuous technical assistance to the SAS
team.
During the event, Mr. Raushan Kumar highlighted the importance of this enduring
partnership. He emphasized how digital tools like tablets improve the accuracy and
efficiency of data collection while contributing to environmental sustainability. Mr. Kumar
also reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to further supporting Samoa with drone technology and
ongoing technical assistance, opening the door to exciting advancements for the country’s
geographic and spatial data capabilities.
This partnership goes beyond the provision of equipment — it represents a shared vision for
data-driven decision-making, capacity building, and a steadfast commitment to Samoa’s
sustainable future.
