The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF) has suspended the sale of livestock from government farms as necessary measures to address the supply shortage. 

The temporary suspension of livestock sales is for government farms at Vaea, Togitogiga, Lemafa and Tanugamalala livestock. 

The sale of cattle will be suspended for three years effective May 2025 to May 2028 while sheep and pigs sale is on hold for a year from May 2025 to May 2026. 

MAF through its Animal Production and Health Division issued the notice to all livestock farmers and stakeholders this week in a strategic move at enhancing livestock development in Samoa. 

 “As part of its commitment to strengthening and modernizing government-owned farms, the Ministry has undertaken a comprehensive review and restructuring of its strategies to ensure long-term sustainability and productivity,” said the Chief Executive Officer for MAF Dr Seuseu Tauati. 

“Accordingly, the temporary suspension of livestock sales has been deemed necessary to facilitate these improvements.”

In the meantime, MAF has partnered with designated livestock multipliers (private breeders) who will continue to supply livestock to farmers during the suspension period. 

Farmers are encouraged to liaise with authorised breeders for their livestock needs. 

The CEO noted key initiatives for livestock development that include the implementation of artificial insemination technology to enhance breeding programs and the importation of superior livestock breeds from international sources. 

The Ministry is also looking at the introduction of high-quality foreign livestock breeds with robust genetics tailored for Samoa's climate and the development and enhancement of feed mills and animal nutrition programs. 

Furthermore, research and cultivation of new pasture species to optimise livestock feeding is part of the long-term plan to multiply livestock.

“This strategic intervention seeks to address the current challenges of livestock shortages while laying the foundation for a more resilient and productive livestock sector,” said Dr Tauati.

“The Ministry acknowledges any inconvenience this may cause and sincerely appreciates the cooperation and support of all stakeholders in ensuring the successful implementation of these reforms.” 

In the past years, the Samoa Observer reported several cases of theft of government-owned cattle at the farms with allegations of inside jobs.