In this bulletin:
1. MARSH — Marshall Islands declared a state of economic emergency amid global criss
2. NIUE — Niue heads to the polls as leadership changes and challenges loom
3. SAMOA — Samoa deputy PM Toelupe Onesemo resigns
4. VAN — Strong 7.3 Quake rocks Vanuatu, Damages buildings and disrupts dervices
5. FIJI — Misinformation outpaces police response, says Fiji Media Association secretary Simpson
6. SOL — Solomon Islands Govt welcomes Court challenge, Urges calm and respect forrule of law
7. FIJI — Fiji PM Rabuka reaffirms commitment to national social cohesion
8. PNG — Strengthen prosecution, says PNG Law Society President
9. PACNEWS BIZ — Samoa ratifies WTO agreement on fisheries subsidies
10. PACNEWS BIZ — 29th MCS Working Group: Investment in capacity and systems reflects positive impact of regional surveillance operations
11. PACNEWS BIZ — NZ expands Pacific Partnership with fresh funding boost for Tuvalu’s fisheries sector
12. PACNEWS IN FOCUS — A Healthier Pacific Starts with What We Put on Our Children’s Plates
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — From Ambition to Action: Samoa validates NDC 3.0 Implementation Roadmap and Investment Plan
MARSH – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL: PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS 1: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Marshall Islands declared a state of economic emergency amid global criss
MAJURO, 31 MARCH 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES)—Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine has declared a 90-day state of economic emergency in response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has driven up global fuel costs, affecting local consumer prices.
In her executive order signed 26 March, Heine noted that the Marshall Islands relies heavily on imported goods, including food, fuel, building materials and other basic needs.
The directive also ordered government agencies to implement strict energy conservation measures, cut fuel expenditures and limit the use of government vehicles.
The president also ordered a moratorium on salary increments, government hiring and the procurement of new vehicles.
“The livelihoods of the people of the Marshall Islands are at risk and immediate action is required to mitigate the impending threat of negative economic impacts,” the executive order reads.
Heine issued the emergency declaration on behalf of her Cabinet, which is authorized under the Disaster Risk Management Act 2023 to exercise emergency powers.
During the state of emergency, the Cabinet is authorised to suspend any rules and regulations that might hinder any necessary action in response to the impact of the global crisis.
The president’s office said the government will continue to monitor developments in the Middle East and “take necessary actions to reduce economic hardship and support the people during this time”.
The Marshall Islands has a population of approximately 42,418. Its US$291 million economy is primarily supported by U.S grants under the Compact of Free Association, which account for 60 percent of the national government’s budget. Its main industries are copra production, fisheries, and the small service sector.
During her 15 March meeting with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum in Tokyo, Heine highlighted the importance of energy security for the Marshall Islands, emphasising its role in economic resilience and regional stability.
Heine and Burgum met on the margins of the Indo-Pacific Energy Security Ministerial and Business Forum.
Heine expressed interest in strengthening cooperation with Washington on energy diversification, including renewable energy and potential participation in regional energy supply chains.
The president also proposed exploring opportunities related to liquefied natural gas as part of a broader energy mix…PACNEWS
NIUE – ELECTION: PMN PACNEWS 1: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Niue heads to the polls as leadership changes and challenges loom
ALOFI, 31 MARCH 2-026 (PMN)—Niueans will head to the polls on 02 May after the country’s parliament was formally dissolved.
A notice in the Niue Gazette confirmed the dissolution of the 18th Niue Assembly took effect on 27 March, following a request from Prime Minister Dalton Tagelagi.
The general election will decide the makeup of the 20-member Assembly and who forms the next government. In Niue’s system, voters choose individuals instead of political parties.
The election comes as Niue faces long-running challenges. Its population is shrinking, many residents are moving to New Zealand, and essential services such as health and transport are under pressure.
Economic development is limited by the island’s small size and isolation. Climate resilience and infrastructure, including coastal protection and energy, remain priorities.
Niue’s close constitutional and financial relationship with New Zealand is also expected to feature in campaign discussions.
The vote coincides with a turning point in leadership. Prime Minister Tagelagi, who has been in office since 2020, told Pacific Mornings last month he may seek one more term before leaving politics.
“I think one more term will serve the purpose, but we’ll leave that decision to the people and those who get elected to the House,” he said.
Speaker Hima Ikimotu Douglas has confirmed he will leave politics, saying it was time to “hand it to somebody else” after a period of reform in the Assembly.
He said efforts were made during his six-year tenure to modernise parliamentary processes after years of outdated systems.
The dissolution formally ends the current parliamentary term and begins the election period, when candidates will contest seats across the country.
A full list of candidates has yet to be released. At the last general election in 2023, 1167 voters were registered with 840 valid votes cast – a turnout of 74 per cent – reflecting the small scale of Niue’s electorate.
Members are elected for three-year terms, with 14 representing village constituencies and six elected on a nationwide roll. With only 20 seats, small shifts in village electorates can quickly shape who forms the government.
Niue operates under a Westminster-style system, in which the Prime Minister is chosen by the Assembly after the election.
With a population under 2000, elections in Niue are closely tied to local communities where candidates are well known to voters. The country has been self-governing in free association with New Zealand since 1974.
Douglas issued the dissolution under Article 26(1)(b) of the Constitution of Niue, which allows the Assembly to be dissolved ahead of an election.
While the move is procedural, it signals the start of the campaigning and political activity, with candidate announcements and priorities expected in the coming weeks.
This election will test how Niue balances leadership continuity with fresh voices, while addressing the practical challenges of population decline, high import costs, and the island’s ongoing development needs….PACNEWS
SAMOA – POLITICS: TALAMUA ONLINE PACNEWS 1: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Samoa deputy PM Toelupe Onesemo resigns
APIA, 31 MARCH 2026 (TALAMUA ONLINE)—Samoa deputy Prime Minister Toelupe Maoiautele Poumulinuku Onesemo has resigned following the Election Court’s decision last a week that voided his seat for the Falealili 1 constituency.
Toelupe announced his resignation in a media conference in Apia after tendering his resignation with the Prime Minister and Cabinet Monday.
Toelupe stated his decision to resign is to protect the integrity of the government and cabinet and its decision-making process.
However, he is pursuing two legal challenges based on constitutional grounds and secondly, to stay the Electoral Courts decision that voided his seat until the legal challenges are dealt with.
The Electoral Court ruled that Toelupe was guilty of bribery over a claim that $150 tala(US$54) was given to a couple who could not be found to present their evidence in Court.
A second time MP, Toelupe led the FAST Government together with the Minister of Finance Mulipola Anarsoa Ale Molioo in tabling and passing the FAST Government’s first budget 2025/2026 as the Prime Minister was away in New Zealand on medical leave for 8 weeks from September to November 2025.
Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt said voiding Toelupe’s seat is a major loss to him and government especially as Deputy Prime Minister carrying the major Works and Infrastructure portfolio.
He said the Speaker of Parliament will be duly informed of Toelupe’s resignation….PACNEWS
VAN – EARTHQUAKE: AP/VBTC/PACNEWS PACNEWS 1: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Strong 7.3 Quake rocks Vanuatu, Damages buildings and disrupts dervices
PORT VILA, 31 MARCH 2026 (AP/VBTC/PACNEWS) —-A powerful magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck near Vanuatu on Monday, shaking communities and damaging buildings.
The United States Geological Survey said the quake occurred at a depth of about 115 kilometres. It hit around 35 kilometres northeast of Luganville.
The tremor was widely felt across the country, including in Shefa Province.
VBTC News reporter Rani Taviti, in Luganville, said items fell from shelves in homes and shops as the quake struck.
Initial reports indicate structural damage, with cracks seen in several buildings, including the Northern District Hospital and other facilities in town.
The Sanma Disaster Response Team is expected to carry out assessments to determine the full extent of the damage.
Services were disrupted following the quake. Bred Bank delayed opening as safety checks were carried out.
Power was cut across Luganville and surrounding areas connected to the main grid, before being gradually restored about two hours later.
Electricity outages were also reported in parts of Malakula Island, along with disruptions to water supply.
Despite the strength of the quake, no tsunami alert was issued.
The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazard Department warned that aftershocks may continue and urged people to check their homes and report any significant damage…..PACMEWS
FIJI – MISINFORMATION: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 1: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Misinformation outpaces police response, says Fiji Media Association secretary Simpson
SUVA, 31 MARCH 2026 (FIJI SUN) —The rapid spread of misinformation on social media is outpacing official responses, putting growing pressure on the Fiji Police Force to maintain public trust.
Fiji Media Association(FMA) general secretary Stanley Simpson said false and unverified information was increasingly shaping public opinion before facts could be established.
Speaking at the opening of the Regional Media Development Training for Police Communications in Suva Monday, Simpson described communication today as “more powerful but also more fragile.”
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He said that rumours, short videos and social media posts could reach even remote parts of Fiji within minutes, often leaving authorities struggling to respond in time.
“While the police communications team remains one of the best in the country, delays in responding to online narratives, including criticism and allegations, allow misinformation to take hold,” Simpson said.
He added that issues of trust and criticism of the police were increasingly playing out on social media, where accusations of cover-ups and misconduct frequently emerge, requiring faster and more strategic responses.
Simpson stressed that ignoring the digital landscape was no longer an option, urging both police and media organisations to adapt to the changing environment and actively engage with online discourse.
He said the workshop aimed to strengthen collaboration between the police and the media, noting that both institutions play different but complementary roles in serving the public.
According to Simpson, the police are responsible for maintaining order and providing credible information, while the media must inform, question, and verify facts in the public interest.
When both perform their roles effectively, public trust is strengthened.
He noted that public confidence in the police has declined over time, with social media users quick to question official statements, highlighting the need for clear, timely, and accurate communication.
Simpson also called for improved access to information, advocating for more decentralised communication within the police force to allow quicker responses at the local level, while recognising that sensitive matters may still require central approval.
“When false information fills gaps left by delayed or limited communication, the consequences can be serious, including loss of public confidence, increased community anxiety, and potential disruption to investigations,” he said.
He emphasised that reducing the gap between fact and speculation is critical, and stronger relationships between the media and police will help ensure accurate information reaches the public.
Simpson urged participants to use the training to develop practical solutions to improve information sharing, rebuild trust, and better serve the public, noting that the workshop’s outcomes should extend beyond attendees to benefit the wider community.
Meanwhile, strong discussions Monday between Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya and MaiTV Director Stanley Simpson focused on Fiji’s Public Service Broadcast (PSB) Fund and the upcoming Pacific Media Summit in September.
Permanent Secretary for Information, Eseta Nadakuitavuki and Director of Information, Samisoni Pareti also attended the meeting at the MaiTV head office in Suva.
The PSB Fund is already making an impact—amplifying Fiji’s untold stories and supporting key national campaigns on disaster preparedness, drug awareness, safe sex, rural development, and sports.
In its first year under the Ministry, the fund has driven a surge in meaningful local content.
MaiTV also highlighted how PSB support has helped expand coverage beyond Suva, shining a light on rural communities, MSMEs, and women in business.
Talks also covered Government support for the Pacific Media Summit in Savusavu and plans for a Fiji Press Club building….PACNEWS
SOL – POLITICS: SOL GOVT PACNEWS 1: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Solomon Islands Govt welcomes Court challenge, Urges calm and respect forrule of law
HONIARA, 31 MARCH 2026 (SOL GOVT)—The Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) has acknowledged a Judicial Review application filed before the Solomon Islands High Court, describing it as part of the country’s democratic process.
The case, registered as Judicial Review Case No. 154 of 2026, will be addressed through the legal system, with the Government welcoming the opportunity for due process.
GNUT said the move reflects the constitutional right of parties to seek judicial review on matters of public interest.
The Government also expressed confidence in the court’s independence and impartiality, and confirmed it will follow all legal procedures and respect the final ruling.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has called for calm.
“Public confidence in the justice system must be upheld, and all parties are urged to act responsibly and in the national interest,” the Prime Minister said.
The Government is urging leaders, stakeholders and citizens to maintain unity, stability and respect for the rule of law as the matter proceeds.
It says work will continue on national priorities, including preparations for LDC graduation in 2027 and the country’s 50th anniversary….PACNEWS
FIJI – SOCIAL COHESION: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS 1: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Fiji PM Rabuka reaffirms commitment to national Social cohesion
SUVA, 31 MARCH 2026 (FIJI GOVT)—Fiji Government is reaffirming its commitment to strengthening social cohesion, inclusivity, and unity across Fiji’s diverse communities.
In his keynote address at the opening of the National Social Cohesion Stakeholder Conference held in Suva Monday, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka highlighted the importance of building trust and understanding among citizens and between communities and the State, describing social cohesion as a cornerstone of national stability and development.
The conference brought together representatives from Government institutions, faith-based organisations, civil society, and international partners, serving as a platform for inclusive dialogue and knowledge sharing aimed at fostering a more harmonious and resilient Fiji.
“Building trust between Government and citizens, while strengthening relationships across communities, is essential to ensuring a peaceful and resilient society,” Prime Minister Rabuka said.
He noted that social cohesion encompasses both vertical cohesion relations between citizens and Government and horizontal cohesion in the relationships among individuals and communities, both of which are critical to national unity.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka also acknowledged the increasingly complex global environment, including economic uncertainties, climate change impacts, and shifting geopolitical dynamics, which continue to test national resilience.
“In times of global uncertainty, our commitment to social cohesion has never been more critical,” he said.
The focus of his message centred on the Pacific concept of the Ocean of Peace, which emphasises security through relationships, mutual respect, and shared responsibility. He said the concept reinforces the importance of unity, cooperation, and strong social bonds in maintaining lasting peace.
The Prime Minister highlighted key Government initiatives aimed at strengthening national unity, including the reintroduction of significant public holidays such as Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna Day and Girmit Day, recognising Fiji’s diverse history and the contributions of its people.
He also pointed to the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in December 2024 as a critical step in addressing historical grievances and fostering national healing.
“To move forward as a nation, we must confront the pain of our past with compassion and courage, creating safe spaces where every voice is heard,” he said.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka further underscored the importance of Fiji’s National Security Strategy (NSS), which places social cohesion at the centre of national security by promoting inclusive governance, equitable opportunities, and trust between communities and the State.
“Modern security is multidimensional. By addressing the root causes of insecurity and strengthening social bonds, we build a more resilient nation,” he said.
He called for stronger collaboration across all sectors, stressing that nation-building requires collective effort and shared responsibility.
“Working in silos is no longer an option. We must embrace the spirit of solesolevaki, where our collective strength surpasses individual efforts,” Prime Minister Rabuka said.
The conference marks an important step in reinforcing Fiji’s commitment to unity, inclusivity, and sustainable development, grounded in the nation’s shared values and diversity.
Also speaking at the event, the United Nations Resident Coordinator to Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu, Dirk Wagener, commended Fiji’s efforts to promote inclusive dialogue and strengthen social cohesion.
Wagener highlighted that social cohesion is critical in addressing global challenges such as climate change, economic uncertainty, and social inequality, noting that strong, inclusive societies are better equipped to respond to these pressures.
“Social cohesion is the foundation of resilient societies. When people feel included, heard, and valued, nations are better able to withstand shocks and build sustainable futures,” Wagener said……PACNEWS
PNG – LAW SOCIETY: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS 1: Tue 31 Mar 2026
Strengthen prosecution, says PNG Law Society President
PORT MORESBY, 31 MARCH 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Papua New Guinea Law Society president Hubert Namani says the country has an obligation to strengthen prosecution, especially for financial crimes.
“(This) is not a policy option; it is a matter of credibility, of survival,” he said.
Namani said PNG’s grey-listing under the global Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML-CFT) framework was a direct consequence of weak enforcement and the failure to prosecute serious financial crimes.
He said the longer PNG stayed on the grey list, the more investments would decline, banking relationships would tighten and international transactions would become difficult.
Serah Osembo, a lawyer with experience in proceeds-of-crime seizure working with the Bank of Papua New Guinea’s financial analysis and supervision unit (Fasu), said there was a disconnect between Fasu reports and actual prosecutions.
Osembo, during a panel on PNG’s grey-listing, said Fasu reports were being used to trigger investigations, but the problem was getting from there to the prosecution stage.
She said cooperation between Fasu, police and prosecutors improved since the recent grey-listing.
“(The problem is) getting to lay charges, to work on the matters, and have them pushed from investigation to prosecution,” she said.
Osembo said technical capacity in investigators and prosecutors was a shortfall that needed addressing.
“Fasu’s role is strictly regulatory and intelligence-gathering. It collects suspicious matter reports from banks, law firms, accountants and other reporting entities,” she said.
“At present, it does not have the power to freeze accounts suspected of money-laundering. It has been argued that Fasu should be given the power to prosecute, but the talk has not become serious as yet.”
Namani stressed the need for prosecution to be strengthened.
“We cannot call ourselves a functioning democracy when public funds disappear without prosecution, corruption is exposed, but never tested in court, and fraud becomes embedded in systems,” he said.
“If the State cannot effectively investigate, prosecute and secure convictions for serious offences, then the law does not operate as law. It operates as a suggestion,” he said…..PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
SAMOA – FISHERIES: SAMOA GOVT PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 30 Mar 2026
Samoa ratifies WTO agreement on fisheries subsidies
YAOUNDE, 31 MARCH 2026 (SAMOA GOVT)—Samoa is one of three WTO members (along with Paraguay and Saint Vincent and Grenadines) to submit its Instrument of Acceptance of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies (“Fisheries Agreement”), bringing the total number of members who have formally accepted the Fisheries Agreement to 119.
Fata Ryan Schuster, Minister for Commerce, Industry and Labour; and Trade Negotiations, formally submitted Samoa’s Instrument of Acceptance of the Fisheries Agreement to Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the WTO, during the Opening Ceremony of the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14), in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The presentation was part of the celebration of the entry into force of the Fisheries Agreement.
Adopted in June 2022 at the 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) in Geneva, the Fisheries Agreement enters into force once two-thirds of members deposit their Instruments of Acceptance with the WTO. This threshold was achieved on 15 September 2025.
The Fisheries Agreement is the first WTO agreement focused on ocean sustainability, requiring members to formalise their commitment to prohibit harmful fisheries subsidies, a key factor in the widespread depletion of the world’s fish stocks.
The Fisheries Agreement marks a significant global step towards addressing harmful fisheries subsidies that contribute to illegal, unreported and unregulated (“IUU”) fishing, overfished stocks, and unsustainable fishing practices in the high seas.
These challenges continue to threaten marine ecosystems and the long-term sustainability of global fish stocks.
For Samoa, the ocean is central to its way of life – it supports livelihoods, provides food security, and forms an integral part of our cultural identity. As a Small Island Developing State, Samoa places the highest priority on the sustainable management and protection of its ocean resources.
By formally accepting the Fisheries Agreement, Samoa reaffirms its strong commitment to ocean sustainability, safeguarding livelihoods, and ensuring that marine resources continue to benefit present and future generations.
To support implementation, a dedicated Fisheries Fund has been established under the WTO to assist developing and least-developed countries, including Small Island Developing States, in building capacity, strengthening sustainable fisheries management systems, and complying with notification and transparency obligations under the Fisheries Agreement.
The Fisheries Agreement is only the second agreement reached at the WTO, since its inception in 1995. Trade ministers at MC14 are considering a draft decision to continue negotiations for additional disciplines on certain forms of fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing. …PACNEWS
PAC – FISHERIES: FFA PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 31 Mar 2026
29th MCS Working Group: Investment in capacity and systems reflects positive impact of regional surveillance operations
HONIARA, 31 MARCH 2026 (FFA)—Investment in capacity across Pacific fisheries monitoring and enforcement is delivering stronger results in regional surveillance operations, as highlighted at the conclusion of the 29th Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) Working Group.
Hosted by the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) in Honiara, the annual meeting brought together about 100 MCS practitioners from all 17 FFA Members, alongside regional and international partners.
Discussions throughout the week highlighted how sustained investment in training, tools, collaboration and coordination is strengthening FFA Members’ ability to monitor and protect fishing activities across their waters and the high seas of the Western and Central Pacific.
Updates on regional training delivered over the past 12 months showed continued expansion of programmes such as Electronic Port State Measures (EPSM), Dockside Boarding and Inspection, High Seas Boarding and Inspection, MCS data analysis tools and fisheries compliance. These efforts are improving national capability and enabling Members to take a more active role in real-time operations supported by the FFA Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre.
The Working Group noted that strengthened capacity is already reflected in operational outcomes from 2025 regional surveillance activities, including high levels of compliance across monitored vessels and the identification of vessels of interest through coordinated air, sea and satellite surveillance.
FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop meanwhile highlighted the importance of the Working Group as a platform for sharing knowledge, strengthening partnerships and shaping regional policy.
“While we continue to address illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, we are also contributing to the sustainability of the region’s tuna stocks through stronger tools, coordination and national programmes,” Pakop said in his closing statement at the end of the five-day event.
“This week’s discussions on capacity building reinforce that strengthening national capability across our Members directly supports the collective success of fisheries management in the Pacific.”
Pakop said the outcomes of the 29th MCS Working Group Meeting will inform discussions at the Forum Fisheries Committee (FFC) and continue to support effective fisheries management across the Pacific.
The FFC is FFA’s governing body and is responsible for endorsing recommendations from technical working groups such as the MCS Working Group, including adopted outcomes, to guide regional policy and decision-making.
One of the key outcomes of the Working Group that is expected to go before the FFC, is a proposal for FFA Members to make Electronic Reporting (ER) mandatory through licence terms and conditions. This is projected to improve the timeliness of catch, effort and observer data reporting.
FFA Interim Deputy Director-General and Director of Fisheries Operations, Allan Rahari, said the Working Group plays a key role in strengthening regional cooperation and enforcement.
He noted that the theme of this year’s meeting focused on reflecting on MCS successes and challenges, while assessing the impact of MCS activities across Pacific fisheries.
“It’s about working together and making sure everyone involved complements each other’s efforts,” Rahari said while speaking on opportunities to improve collaboration within the MCS work.
“Tuna does not recognise boundaries or countries, so managing it across the region requires cooperation across the full FFA membership.
“We have achieved quite a lot in working together, and cooperation is the cornerstone of our success in the region. This includes cooperation among FFA Members, as well as with like-minded partners,” he said.
Members also reviewed progress in electronic monitoring, observer programmes and digital systems supporting compliance, including electronic reporting tools, Port State Measures systems and regional Maritime Domain Awareness data platforms.
While progress has been made, discussions highlighted the need to continue improving data integration, access and interoperability across systems.
Discussions also focused on technical compliance priorities, including data sharing, vessels of interest and regional frameworks such as the Niue Treaty Subsidiary Agreement, which supports coordinated law enforcement across national jurisdictions.
The 29th MCS Working Group noted the growing role of technology, including satellite monitoring, data systems and intelligence tools, alongside the importance of building national capacity to support regional efforts.
The 29th MCS Working Group Meeting was held from 23 to 27 March 2026 at the FFA Headquarters in Honiara…..PACNEWS
TUVALU – FISHERIES: DEVSDISCOURSE PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 31 Mar 2026
NZ expands Pacific Partnership with fresh funding boost for Tuvalu’s fisheries sector
AUCKLAND, 31 MARCH 2026 (DEVSDISCOURSE)—-New Zealand has reinforced its strategic commitment to Pacific development and climate resilience, announcing additional funding for the Tuvalu Fisheries Support Programme (TFSP) during high-level talks in Auckland between Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Tuvalu’s Prime Minister, Feleti Teo.
The renewed investment underscores Wellington’s long-standing role as a key development partner in the Pacific, with fisheries at the centre of economic stability, food security, and climate adaptation for small island nations like Tuvalu.
New Zealand has supported the TFSP for over ten years, contributing to institutional capacity-building, sustainable fisheries management, and economic resilience in Tuvalu—one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations.
“New Zealand is proud to support Tuvalu in strengthening its fisheries sector. We value our close relationship and look forward to continuing this important collaboration in the years ahead,” Peters said following the meeting.
The latest funding package builds on this foundation, aiming to enhance Tuvalu’s ability to manage its marine resources more effectively while adapting to intensifying environmental pressures.
Fisheries represent Tuvalu’s most critical natural asset, contributing significantly to government revenue, employment, and food supply. With limited land resources and increasing exposure to sea-level rise, the country’s economic future is closely tied to the sustainable management of its ocean territory.
Through the TFSP, New Zealand has helped Tuvalu:
*Strengthen fisheries governance and regulatory systems
*Improve monitoring, control, and surveillance of fishing activities
*Enhance local workforce skills and institutional capacity
*Support community-level fisheries initiatives
These interventions are essential for ensuring that Tuvalu can maximise the economic returns from its fisheries while preserving marine ecosystems for future generations.
Tuvalu faces acute climate-related challenges, including rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and shifting marine ecosystems—all of which directly impact fisheries productivity and livelihoods.
The additional funding is expected to support:
*Climate-resilient fisheries management practices
*Adaptation strategies for coastal and marine ecosystems
*Community resilience initiatives in vulnerable island areas
*Data-driven decision-making to respond to environmental changes
“New Zealand stands with Tuvalu as a trusted partner,” Mr Peters said. “This additional investment is part of our commitment to supporting Pacific resilience, security and sustainable development.”
The funding is drawn from New Zealand’s International Development Cooperation programme, reflecting a broader geopolitical and economic strategy to strengthen partnerships across the Pacific.
Beyond development outcomes, fisheries cooperation also plays a role in:
*Enhancing regional maritime security
*Combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing
* Promoting sustainable ocean governance
* Supporting rules-based resource management
For Tuvalu, improved fisheries management translates into greater sovereignty over its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), which spans hundreds of thousands of square kilometres despite the nation’s small landmass.
The TFSP is designed not only to improve current fisheries performance but also to secure long-term benefits for Tuvalu’s population.
By investing in sustainable practices and institutional strength, the programme aims to ensure:
* Stable government revenues from fisheries licensing
*Reliable access to protein-rich food sources
* Greater resilience against external economic and environmental shocks
Peters emphasised that fisheries remain central to Tuvalu’s development trajectory, describing them as “its most important natural resource.”
The announcement comes at a time of increasing international focus on the Pacific region, where climate change, resource competition, and strategic interests are converging.
New Zealand’s continued investment signals its intention to remain a reliable and long-term partner in the region, prioritising cooperation over competition.
The meeting between Peters and Prime Minister Teo also reflects strengthening diplomatic engagement, with both nations reaffirming shared priorities around sustainability, resilience, and inclusive growth.
While the exact funding amount has not been publicly disclosed, the expansion of support is expected to accelerate progress under the TFSP and open avenues for further collaboration in areas such as marine conservation, blue economy development, and climate adaptation.
As Pacific nations navigate an increasingly complex set of challenges, initiatives like the Tuvalu Fisheries Support Programme highlight the importance of sustained partnerships and targeted investments.
For Tuvalu, the continued backing from New Zealand provides not just financial support, but a pathway toward a more secure, resilient, and sustainable future….PACNEWS
PACNEWS In Focus
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
A Healthier Pacific Starts with What We Put on Our Children’s Plates
By Karla Hershey, Mamadou Kane and Dirk Wagener, United Nations Resident Coordinators in the Pacific
SUVA, 31 MARCH 2026 (UNRCO)—In the Pacific, food tells a story. It is taro pulled from rich soil, freshly caught fish shared at sunset, breadfruit roasted over an open fire, leafy greens grown in family gardens. For generations, traditional food systems sustained communities with diversity, balance, and care for the land and ocean.
Yet across our region, a paradox has emerged. While healthy foods remain part of the heritage, they are often less affordable and accessible than processed, imported products. The result is a growing nutrition and health crisis affecting communities, health systems, and economies alike.
A staggering 28.8 percent of people across Asia and the Pacific cannot afford a healthy diet, according to the UN’s Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition 2025. In Oceania, nearly one in five people face this reality.
Overweight and obesity are rising at alarming rates. Adult obesity in Oceania, excluding Australia and New Zealand, stands at 24.8 percent, while 16 percent of children are overweight. Across the region, non-communicable diseases linked to poor diets account for 75 percent of premature deaths.
National data from several Pacific countries tell a similar story. A nutritious diet can cost several times more than a basic, energy-only diet, and many households cannot afford it. Adolescent girls and breastfeeding mothers often lose the most, compounding health risks and reinforcing cycles of vulnerability, including both household and structural gender inequities.
This challenge goes beyond access and affordability. The wider food environment, including the availability and marketing of processed foods high in sugar, salt and fat, shapes dietary patterns.
At the same time, local farmers face constraints that limit supply and drive-up costs. Families can only benefit when supportive policies, programs and environments make nutritious choices for the easiest and most accessible options.
Addressing this crisis requires coordinated, systemic solutions – and the United Nations works hand in hand with governments in the Pacific to support people and families in accessing healthy diets, particularly for children.
Strengthening Food Systems and Health-Promoting Environments
First, healthy food must be affordable, accessible, and part of a health-promoting environment. This means investing in local farmers, fisherfolks and producers, improving supply chains, supporting the production of diverse, nutritious foods – particularly traditional crops and locally grown vegetables – that have long sustained Pacific communities. It also involves empowering communities and schools to prepare and consume these foods in ways that maximize their health benefits. This is about embracing local practices while encouraging safe and nutritious preparation. Aligning trade, agriculture and social protection policies can further make healthy choices the easiest choices. Strengthening local food systems is not only about nutrition; it also supports resilience, livelihoods, and economic stability.
Policy and Fiscal Measures
Second, fiscal and policy measures play an important role. Taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages are already used in much of the Pacific to discourage unhealthy consumption patterns. As the experience in Fiji and Tonga shows, well-designed tax policies must be complemented by incentives for healthier products, industry engagement and monitoring to ensure meaningful nutrition outcomes. Policies should be designed to enable communities, not penalize them.
Schools as Hubs for Health-Promoting Environments
Third, schools need to lead by example. Healthier canteens and well-designed meal programs can improve children’s nutrition while easing household food costs. Schools shape habits that last a lifetime, and the food offered should support, not undermine, children’s health.
School gardens, already established in countries such as Fiji, Samoa and the Federated States of Micronesia, help create health-promoting environments by enabling children to grow food, stay active and understand the value of nutritious diets. Initiatives such as the Health Promoting Schools Initiative in Fiji and Tonga show how schools can take a comprehensive approach by integrating nutrition, physical activity and healthy environments into everyday learning. Together, these efforts empower schools and communities to support children’s health in a practical and sustainable way.
Regulating Marketing and Labelling
Marketing of unhealthy foods, particularly to children, continues to shape preferences and make healthier choices more difficult. Clear front-of-package labelling, restrictions on harmful advertising and industry accountability are essential to create a more balanced environment where families can make informed choices. Evidence shows that such measures reduce consumption of food high in sugar, salt and fat, including processed baby foods, and help prevent obesity.
Multi-sector Collaboration
No single ministry or sector can solve this challenge alone. Health, agriculture, fisheries, education, finance and trade must work together, while communities, civil society, faith leaders and the private sector all play critical roles. Development partners, including the United Nations, support governments with technical expertise, financing, and lessons learned across the region. The UN system is helping countries translate commitments into evidence-based actions that strengthen food systems, improve diets, and create measurable improvements for families.
A Shared Responsibility for Health
The cost of inaction is high. Poor diets harm the well-being of children and of society as a whole, increasing the burden on health systems and slowing development. Heavy reliance on imported foods leaves Pacific countries vulnerable to external shocks. But the path forward is clear: making nutritious food affordable, supporting local production, improving school food environments, regulating the marketing of unhealthy foods, strengthening fiscal measures on their sale and importation, and implementing smart policy tools can shift the trajectory.
Every Pacific family should benefit from food systems that support health and dignity. This is not the responsibility of individuals alone. Governments, communities and partners have a shared obligation to create enabling environments. With determination, collaboration and evidence-based action, healthier children and a healthier Pacific are within reach. …PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
From Ambition to Action: Samoa validates NDC 3.0 Implementation Roadmap and Investment Plan
APIA, 31 MARCH 2026 (UNDP)— The Government of Samoa, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), convened a Validation Workshop for Samoa’s NDC 3.0 Implementation Roadmap and Investment Plan at Taumeasina Island Resort on March 26th. The development of the Roadmap and Investment Plan has been supported by UNDP under its Climate Promise initiative.
The workshop brought together representatives from government ministries, civil society organisations, development partners, academia, and private sector to review and validate Samoa’s implementation and investment pathway for achieving its climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.
The event featured interactive group discussions and plenary exchanges, covering key sectors, including: energy and electricity, transport, waste, agriculture, forestry and other land use (AFOLU), and cross-cutting areas such as gender and social inclusion.
Through these discussions, stakeholders provided targeted feedback on the methodology, prioritization of measures, and implementation sequencing, ensuring that the roadmap reflects national realities and sectoral expertise.
Speaking at the workshop, Paolo Dalla Stella, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, highlighted the importance of moving decisively from planning to action: “This roadmap is about turning ambition into action: aligning priorities, mobilizing investment, and strengthening partnerships to ensure Samoa can deliver on its climate commitments in a coordinated and effective way.”
Also addressing participants, Bernadette Amosa, Acting Assistant Chief Executive Officer of the Climate Change Division at MNRE, emphasised the importance of inclusivity and practicality in the process: “Samoa’s NDC 3.0 must be inclusive and implementable, reflecting the voices of communities and stakeholders, and ensuring that our climate actions are grounded in reality and deliver real benefits for our people.”
The NDC 3.0 Implementation Roadmap and Investment Plan outlines Samoa’s strategy to reduce emissions, strengthen resilience, and mobilise approximately USD$748 million in investments by 2035, while supporting sustainable development and energy security.
The outcomes of the workshop will inform the finalisation of the document, ensuring it is nationally owned, actionable, and aligned with Samoa’s development priorities.
UNDP’s Climate Promise is the world’s largest offer of support on climate action, providing over 140 countries with technical and financial assistance to enhance and implement their Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement. …. PACNEWS