SUVA: The government of Samoa declared a 30-day state of emergency on Monday due to an electricity supply crisis on Upolu, the country’s main island, according to Xinhua.
Radio New Zealand reported that the power outage began last month following damage to the main underground power cable, which subsequently required further repairs.
In addition, the failure of three main generators further reduced energy generation capacity.
Severe weather also caused damage to power lines and key utility poles, while backup generators—meant to serve as alternatives—also failed.
Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa stated last week that this combination of factors had led to a major power outage, severely affecting the lives of residents and business operations across the country.
To address the crisis, the government issued emergency directives that include, among other measures, tax exemptions on electricity-related equipment and the mobilization of aid for households, businesses, and the private sector, according to local media outlet Samoa Observer.
Fiame also assured the public that the government would ensure the arrival and operation of temporary generators by the end of April, while permanent generators are expected to be operational by August.
— BERNAMA
