The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $62.26 million grant to support a project that will enhance the safety, security, and sustainability of Apia Port, which is Samoa’s main international maritime gateway.
Samoa has historically suffered from disasters triggered by cyclones and earthquakes. The breakwater at the port is badly damaged.
The project will rehabilitate and upgrade the breakwater to withstand a 100-year storm event and 50-year sea-level rise.
A multi-hazard disaster preparedness plan will also be formulated to mitigate disruption of port operations in the aftermath of a disaster event.
“ Enhanced climate and disaster resilience of the lifeline port, and enhanced border security and efficiency delivered by the project will increase trade competitiveness, particularly for Samoan exports ,” said ADB Senior Transport Specialist for the Pacific Ms. Alexandra Pamela Chiang .
ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. In 2018, it made commitments of new loans and grants amounting to $21.6 billion.