Mangrove Monitoring: Conservation International Samoa’s Kiwa RESTORE project has launched mangrove health and structure field work, training local trainers and running two weeks of assessments across eight Upolu communities to strengthen coastal protection, biodiversity tracking, and livelihoods. Clean Energy Push: Pacific energy experts at the Pacific Peace and Security Dialogue say the fuel crisis was predictable and must drive faster, community-led renewable energy and cleaner shipping, with Samoa’s renewable energy manager warning impacts hit rural and low-income households hardest. Climate Risk Alert: SPREP reports El Niño conditions are setting in for the Western Pacific, bringing drier-than-usual conditions and higher drought risk, urging proactive water management planning. Waterfront & Resilience: World Bank-funded PREPARE Samoa is backing a master plan for Salelologa’s market and waterfront upgrades, aiming to boost local economy and disaster resilience. Labour Mobility Strain: MPs warn Samoa’s district development faces a labour crisis as workers leave under overseas labour mobility schemes, with calls to consider overseas recruitment to fill farm and village gaps. Minimum Wage Update: Samoa’s minimum wage rises to WST$5.24/hour from 1 July 2026, stepping up to WST$6.05 by July 2028. Plastic Cut: Samoa’s styrofoam plates and cups ban is set to take effect on 30 June, with importers and retailers warned of monitoring and penalties. Fisheries Cooperation: Samoa is among partners endorsing stronger regional cooperation on sustainable South Pacific albacore tuna management.