New members of parliament's lack of understanding of how the district grants work and their processes should be addressed, according to a veteran politician.

Opposition leader Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi raised concerns directed to the Minister of Women, Community, and Social Development (MWCSD), Moefa'auouo Julius Ah-Kui, but it was the Deputy Prime Minister, Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo, who responded on behalf of the Minister.

Tuilaepa emphasised that newly appointed members of parliament (MPs) on both sides of the House need to be fully informed about the status of the district fund project. He expressed concern that these new MPs might not be aware of the ongoing processes related to the allocation of the funds, which are intended to support community development projects across Samoa's districts. 

Tuilaepa asked Moefaauouo when decisions from the District Council Committee would be finalised and when the allocation of the funds would be made public.

In response, Deputy Prime Minister Toelupe explained that decisions regarding the district fund project were still under review. He assured parliament that once the necessary processes and frameworks were completed, decisions would be finalised and communicated. 

However, he noted that certain government actions, especially those involving sensitive matters, would remain confidential for the time being.

Toelupe also addressed the challenges faced by the government in relation to the $1 million district fund project over the four years. Despite these setbacks, he reaffirmed the government's commitment to moving the project forward, stressing its importance for community development in Samoa’s districts. 

While acknowledging that unresolved issues from previous years had contributed to delays, he emphasised that the government was working diligently to resolve them and ensure the project’s success.