Local News
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — An environmental group in American Samoa is taking legal action against the United States government over its [https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/pacific/749226/pacific-voices-condemn-us-plan... plans for deep-sea mining near the territory.
Fa'asao Amerika Samoa and the...
Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata gave remarks Tuesday for the Interagency Group on Insular Affairs (IGIA) held virtually with the Department of the Interior (DOI) and other federal agencies, stating opposition to seabed mining.
“At this time, the biggest concern for the people of...
Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is highlighting notice of $343,065 in federal funds from the U.S. Department of Justice for the American Samoa Alliance Against Domestic and Sex Violence.
“Congratulations once again to Fuatino Jennifer Tofaeono and everyone involved through the...
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The American Samoa Chamber of Commerce announces that Shalidiloya Faavaoga of South Pacific Academy will represent American Samoa at the 2026 National Civics Bee® Championship on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, in Washington, D.C.
Shalidiloya earned second place in...
ASGERF Board members
by Asi Andrew Fa'asauandrew@samoanews.comThe Senate has decided to postpone further consideration of legislation that would convert the American Samoa Government's more than $30 million debt to the American Samoa Government Employees Retirement Fund (ASGERF) into a formal loan...
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Senate has temporarily set aside legislation that would formally establish the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority (ASTCA) in territorial law, delaying final action on the measure until a future legislative session.
The House-approved bill was scheduled for...
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — While the American Samoa Government's growing debt to the American Samoa Government Employees Retirement Fund has sparked criticism from some members of the public, government officials point out that the obligation stems from ASG's responsibility to match employee...
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — On September 13, 2026, a woman contacted the local authorities and reported that she was assaulted by a man later identified as Lopi Mani. The alleged early morning assault left the woman with serious burn injuries and facial bruising.
The suspect, was later charged...
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A resident of American Samoa is asking that in recognition of the life, distinguished service, and enduring contributions of Dr. Iotamo Saleapaga to the people of American Samoa, it is fitting that the territory honor his memory with a formal observance.
“We also honor...
Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata released the following statement yesterday on the anniversary of the 2009 devastating tsunami:
“Our people will never forget the devastating tsunami of September 29, 2009, and the tragic loss of so many of our own. Our hearts go out to all the many...

![The US government said the move is part of President Donald Trump's push to boost production and access to critical minerals. [Photo: AFP / Kent Nishimnura] Trump signs](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/trump_signs_copy.jpg?itok=zP6ncWAY)


![Lt. Governor Pulumata‘ala Ae Ae Jr., Shalidiloya Faavaoga, and supporters during the Chamber of Commerce official send-off and blessing. Ms.Faavaoga of South Pacific Academy will represent American Samoa at the 2026 National Civics Bee® Championship on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, in Washington, D.C. [courtesy photo] LT and student](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/lt_and_student.png?itok=QdXB14nA)
![(Pictured from left) American Samoa Government Employees Retirement Fund (ASGERF) Board of Trustees members Keniseli Lafaele and I'aulualo Faafetai Talia, along with ASGERF attorney Mitzie Jessop-Ta'ase, testify before a Senate committee hearing yesterday on legislation proposing a loan arrangement to address the government's outstanding debt to the Retirement Fund. [photo: Asi A. Fa'asau] American Samoa Government Employees Retirement Fund (ASGERF) Board of Trustees members](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/asgerf_board_members.jpg?itok=wpPfItB8)
![Before senators could vote on the legislation, Senator Magalei Logovii requested that consideration of the measure be postponed. [photo: Senate Media] Senator Magalei Logovii](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/sen_magalei_new.jpg?itok=T7rh58Qv)



![The terrible sudden destruction of this tsunami is the largest disaster in the modern history of our islands. [SN File photo] ROPATI HOPELESS](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/ropati_hopeless.jpg?itok=6Wc_8ufs)