French Development Agency Regional Director Makes Landmark First Visit to Samoa

Samoa has welcomed a significant high-level visit from the French Development Agency (AFD), marking the first time its Regional Director for the Pacific, Ms. Safia Ibrahim, has visited the nation. This visit, from April 20th to 23rd, 2026, underscores France's commitment to sustainable development in the region and strengthens the burgeoning relationship between France and Samoa, particularly with the recent opening of the French Embassy in Apia.

Ms. Ibrahim's delegation engaged directly with Samoan authorities, including key ministers and CEOs, as well as project implementers and beneficiaries. This direct interaction is crucial for understanding Samoa's strategic priorities and ensuring that AFD's support aligns with the country's development goals. The focus areas—climate change, biodiversity, health, green finance, and sustainable infrastructure—are critical for Samoa's resilience and future prosperity.

AFD's involvement in Samoa is substantial, with the country currently benefiting from seven regional projects funded by the agency. These projects span diverse sectors, from waste management and health to emergency preparedness and social inclusion, with a notable emphasis on nature-based solutions. Furthermore, AFD plays a key role in regional initiatives like the Pacific Ocean Initiative and the Kiwa Initiative, demonstrating a commitment to addressing shared environmental challenges across the Pacific.

This visit, as reported by Samoa Global News, highlights a collaborative approach to development aid. The coordination meeting with international donors, convened by the CEO of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, is particularly important for Samoa. It ensures that development assistance is optimally allocated and avoids duplication, maximizing the impact of international support. For Samoa, this engagement with AFD represents a valuable partnership in tackling pressing development and environmental issues, reflecting a shared vision for a sustainable future.

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This was the first AFD visit to Samoa at this level of leadership, though several AFD officers have travelled there over the years to follow-up on AFD’s projects in the country.