In a quest for enhanced governance and performance of its 27 public bodies with assets totaling SAT$4 billion, a delegation from Samoa led by the Minister of Public Enterprises, Leatinu’u Wayne So'oialo was on a fact-finding mission to New Zealand. 

The aim is to learn from the policy frameworks that have bolstered the success of New Zealand's State Owned Enterprises (SOEs).

At the heart of the exchange was a meeting between the Samoan delegation and New Zealand's Minister of State-Owned Enterprises Paul Goldsmith.

The conversation delved into strategic policy reforms and governance enhancements that have seen New Zealand SOEs thrive in both service delivery and government dividends.

"The purpose of the visit was to exchange views on policy frameworks governing New Zealand State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and shared Strategic Policy Reform actions that led to improved governance and performance of New Zealand SOEs in terms of service quality and enhanced contribution to its Government via dividends," said Leatinu’u.

Insights into shareholder expectations, strategic planning, and investment strategies were also gathered from meetings with selected New Zealand SOEs, providing valuable lessons for Samoa's own Public Bodies seeking to elevate their services and government partnerships.

"The exchanges extend to continued shared experiences, ongoing partnerships, and future synergies to ensure the ultimate stakeholders benefit from the services of its Public Bodies," emphasized Minister So'oialo.

This visit to New Zealand forms part of a broader study tour that commenced in Tonga and will conclude in Fiji, reflecting Samoa's steadfast commitment to leveraging international best practices and fostering collaborations to uplift the management and performance of its State Owned Enterprises for the betterment of its stakeholders.