Samoa is facing a dire energy crisis resulting in frequent power outages that are severely disrupting businesses and daily life. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa declared a state of emergency amidst calls for immediate assistance to affected sectors. The government's response includes temporary power generation units arriving soon. With ongoing interruptions, businesses, particularly in the tourism and retail sectors, are suffering financial losses, and essential public services like hospitals and schools are struggling. The potential economic impact could reach a 16% reduction in GDP this year due to the crisis.
Fa'alogo told the Guardian she had just bought over US$500 worth of frozen goods when the power outages began more than two weeks ago. Initially the ice was able to hold up the goods, but after the second day, I literally had to give the meat away to save it from spoiling, Fa'alogo said.
Fiame warned the crisis could wipe off about 16% off the national economy this year due to severe disruptions to public services and economic activity.
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