LocationsJOINT PRESS RELEASE - Ministry of Health, Samoa & United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Handover of Pre-treated long-lasting insecticide incorporated mosquito nets (LLIN) to support Dengue Response in Samoa
April 12, 2026
(l-r) UNDP Resident Representative, Aliona Niculita handing over pre-treated long-lasting insecticide incorporated mosquito nets (LLIN) to the Ministry of Health’s Deputy Director General of Public Heath Services, Auliaimalae Tagaloa Dr. Robert Thomsen, to support the dengue response in Samoa
Photo: UNDP
Apia, Samoa – The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) today marked the handover of 1,000 insecticide-treated bed nets, valued at WST 6,000, to support Samoa’s ongoing dengue response.
This support is provided through UNDP’s continued partnership with Samoa under the UNDP–Global Fund HIV, Tuberculosis and Malaria Programme, which extends across the Pacific. While primarily focused on HIV, TB and malaria, the programme has enabled timely assistance to Samoa’s current dengue response.
The bed nets will be distributed to hospitals and rural health facilities, with priority given to admitted patients and children with confirmed dengue cases. These long-lasting insecticide-treated nets are designed to remain effective for up to three years, offering protection against mosquito bites and reducing the risk of transmission.
The official handover was conducted by Ms. Aliona Niculita, UNDP Resident Representative, and Auliaimalae Tagaloa Dr. Robert Thomsen, the Deputy Director General of Public Health Services on behalf of the Government of Samoa and the Ministry of Health.
Speaking at the handover, Auliaimalae Tagaloa Dr. Robert Thomsen noted: “This support is timely given the current number of confirmed dengue cases. While figures fluctuate, we continue to observe a steady increase in some areas, particularly with ongoing rainfall and weather patterns that create stagnant water—ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes.”
As of the surveillance period 23–29 March 2026, Samoa recorded 154 new dengue cases, including 40 laboratory-confirmed cases and 23 new hospital admissions. Since January 2025, there have been nine reported dengue-related fatalities.
Bed nets
Photo: UNDP
The Ministry of Health continues to lead the national dengue response through surveillance, clinical management, public awareness, and coordinated efforts with other sectors. Community engagement remains central, including village clean-up campaigns and outreach activities to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
UNDP Resident Representative, Aliona Niculita, emphasized the importance of sustained partnership:
“UNDP’s partnership with the Ministry of Health is long-standing and firmly aligned with Samoa’s national and sector priorities, always guided by the best interests of the country. Through the UNDP/Global Fund collaboration, our work has primarily focused on HIV and TB, while also remaining responsive to emerging needs such as support for LLIN distribution. This enduring commitment reflects UNDP’s dedication to strengthening Samoa’s health sector—promoting sustainability, fostering innovation, and delivering meaningful impact for communities across the country.”
In addition to this support, UNDP, through the Global Fund programme, continues to work closely with the Ministry of Health on HIV and TB initiatives, including community engagement activities targeting youth and at-risk populations.
The Ministry of Health acknowledges and appreciates the continued support of UNDP and its partners in strengthening Samoa’s health system and response capacity.
MOH Technical Contacts:
Auliaimalae Tagaloa Dr. Robert Thomsen
Deputy Director General of Public Health Services
Public Health
MOH
+68566600, robertt@health.gov.ws
Leatigaga Siufaga Simi
Assistant Chief Executive Officer
Ministry of Health
+6857634177, siufagas@health.gov.ws
MOH Media contacts:
Rebecca Chadwick
Principal Communication Officer
Ministry of Health
+68566600, rebeccac@health.gov.ws
UNDP Technical Contacts:
Faumuina Gaualofa Matalavea – Sa’aga
Assistant Resident Representative
Governance & Prosperity Unit
Multi Country Office (Cook Islands, Niue, Samoa & Tokelau)
UNDP – Samoa
Contact:+68523670, galualofa@undp.org
Tu’umatavai Taupa’ū Joseph Mulipola
Governance and Poverty Programme Analyst
UNDP, Samoa
Contact: +23670, joseph.mulipola@undp.org
UNDP Media Contact:
Laufāleainā Lesā
Communication Analyst
UNDP, Samoa
Contact:+68523670, laufaleaina.lesa@undp.org
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