Apia, Samoa: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) recently concluded a three-day workshop in Samoa to strengthen anti-corruption frameworks and ensure a cohesive and collaborative approach to tackling corruption and improving financial transparency.

Supported by the Government of the United Kingdom, under UNDP’s Pacific Anti-Corruption Project, the agenda included a training of trainers session focusing on the Corruption Risk Assessment Methodology (CRAM) tool with Samoa’s Public Service Commission and Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, capacity-building for the country’s Financial Intelligence Unit, and training on corruption and financial investigations. 

Additionally, the Samoa International Finance Authority (SIFA) received support in reviewing and finalising Beneficial Ownership guidelines, ensuring alignment with international standards, and mentoring support to strengthen SIFA’s compliance teams in line with Mutual Evaluation Report recommendations, as well as a renewed focus on strengthening inter-agency coordination and fostering cooperation between Samoan anti-corruption authorities.

This workshop comes on the back of Samoa's significant step towards strengthening its governance and fighting corruption with the launch of its first National Anti-Corruption Policy and Strategy in 2024. This milestone underscores Samoa’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, highlighting the government’s dedication to strengthening governance and ensuring accountability within Samoa's democratic system.

Public Service Commissioner Ulualofaigā Talamaivao Fonoti Perelini, said:  

"The training sessions on Corruption Risk Assessment Methodology and Corruption Investigations have equipped our staff with valuable skills and knowledge to better address corruption risks. We appreciate the support from UNDP and the UK Government in these efforts and look forward to continued collaboration to strengthen our anti-corruption frameworks."

Josh Kemp – Counsellor, UK Integrated Security Fund Pacific Programme – British High Commission to Fiji, said:

"The Pacific Anti-Corruption Project plays a crucial role in strengthening governance and transparency across the region. By enhancing the capacities of key integrity institutions and law enforcement agencies in Samoa and across the Pacific, we are helping to build a more transparent and just society."

UNDP Resident Representative Aliona Niculita also praised the progress made, stating:

"UNDP is dedicated to supporting Samoa in its efforts to combat corruption and improve financial transparency. The successful launch of Samoa's National Anti-Corruption Policy and Strategy last year has provided a strong foundation for our ongoing initiatives, with this recent workshop further strengthening the cohesive approach required to effectively tackle corruption."

For more information contact:

Laufālē'aina Lesā | Communications Analyst, UNDP Samoa | laufaleaina.lesa@undp.org 

Nick Turner | Strategic Communications and Advocacy Specialist, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | nicholas.turner@undp.org