Safeguarding Samoa’s Health

In Samoa, health is more than physical care. It reflects family ties, spirituality, and the strength of community. As the nation faces rising rates of non-communicable diseases, limited healthcare resources, and the effects of climate change, there is a growing effort to balance modern medicine with traditional healing practices.

The Ministry of Health oversees the national health system. Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital in Apia is the central referral facility, and Malietoa Tanumafili II Hospital in Tuasivi serves Savai‘i. Across the islands there are district hospitals and health centres that provide primary and emergency care for rural communities.

Health outreach has expanded in recent years. Samoa has mounted large vaccination drives during outbreaks and continues to run mobile outreach and village-based clinics. Training for vaccinators has been strengthened, and the childhood schedule has been updated to improve coverage. Community NCD screening and health promotion are delivered through village programs that work with women’s committees.

Traditional healers, known as fofo or taulasea, continue to play a respected role in many communities. People often use herbal or spiritual remedies either before, or alongside, hospital care. These practices are valued for their cultural significance and can complement the work of trained medical professionals. There is active discussion about how traditional healing could be recognised more formally in policy while keeping patient safety at the centre.

Training at the National University of Samoa is building local medical and nursing expertise. The School of Medicine offers an MBBS program with clinical attachments at Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital, and the Faculty of Health Science also delivers nursing and public health programs. The aim is to develop a more self-sufficient workforce and reduce reliance on overseas staff.

Climate change adds pressure by affecting food supply, water quality, and disease risks. The government and partners are working with villages to strengthen resilience. Village health committees support first aid, hygiene promotion, and nutrition education, and national strategies focus on WASH, vector control, and community preparedness.

The future of public health in Samoa depends on the ability to combine cultural knowledge with modern medical systems. This partnership will help protect the wellbeing of current and future generations.

Sources

• Ministry of Health (Samoa): Health Sector Plan 2019/20–2029/30; Health Facilities and Capital Assets Management Strategy 2022/23–2026/27; National Immunization Policy 2020–2025.

• WHO Western Pacific: Samoa country health profiles and primary health care case studies.

• UNICEF Pacific: immunisation and outreach reports.

• National University of Samoa: Faculty of Health Science and School of Medicine materials.

• RNZ Pacific and Samoa Observer reporting on health programs.

Editor’s note: Fale o Matai prepared this overview from official publications and reputable news outlets listed above. We welcome corrections with citations.