Newborns to receive $1000 and the removal of Value Added Goods and Services Tax (VAGST) from basic food items are part of the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) election promise to alleviate poverty.

HRPP announced the third instalment of its party's manifesto on Wednesday, unveiling a $32 million poverty alleviation package aimed at assisting "underprivileged Samoans." 

The Special Underprivileged Population Assistance (SUPA) program — part three of HRPP's "Poverty Alleviation Project." includes: 

Disability Benefit Enhancements ($5 million) – Monthly allowances for persons with disabilities will increase from $100 to $300, and caregivers will receive $200 monthly.

Newborn Birth Grant ($11 million) – A $1,000 grant for every newborn who completes their vaccination schedule by 15 months. According to the party, this is to prevent any sicknesses from spreading again, like the measles outbreak in 2019 

Zero-Rated VAGST on Essential Foods ($16 million) – Basic items like chicken, rice, milk, and mackerel will be VAGST-free.

The announcement was made during the gathering at HRPP headquarters in Petesa by Deputy Leader Lauofo Fonotoe Pierre. The event included acknowledgements by party leader Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi, who thanked supporters, members, those tuning in from overseas, and the media.

The HRPP's poverty alleviation projects have a total cost of $210 million, which includes the $110 million Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) and the $68 million Pension Ensuring Lasting Empowerment Golden Age (PELEGA). All project funding will be sourced from the national budget and implemented within the party's first 100 days if elected.

Tuilaepa emphasised the party's commitment to addressing poverty in Samoa. "We are striving so that families will no longer struggle to provide for themselves," he said. "Samoa has many things other countries do not — we must build on that for a better future."

The party's deputy leader, Lauofo, said the HRPP's vision is for a peaceful and prosperous Samoa led by leaders who put the country before themselves, acknowledging the significance that "Everyone is important and that everyone is the same."

According to Lealailepule Rimon Aiafi, the party's secretary, a full list of candidates running under the HRPP banner will be announced this Friday, with the Savai’i-based candidates to be revealed next Wednesday. The HRPP had already welcomed candidates from Aana 3 — Niuapu Aiofaiva Faaui Leiataua Lesa — and Faasaleleaga 1 — Pipi Pauli Tevita Tariua Sinapati — and earlier this week from the constituency of Palauli 3 — Leituala Dr. Ben Matalavea.