Samoa has declared a state of emergency (SoE) due to widespread power outages across the country. The SoE will be in place until 29 April as the South Pacific nation looks to effectively manage the crisis, which has particularly affected the main island of Upolu.
According to the Samoan government, recent “continuous power outages and electricity rationing” have caused damage to homes, food spoilage, business disruptions and an economic cost estimated at 16% of GDP “underscoring severe disruptions to national productivity, public services and economic activity”.
With the state of emergency in place, authorities aim to implement “measures necessary to manage and restore national energy supply, protect public health and safety, and maintain essential services”.
Tourism update
According to the Samoa Tourist Authority (STA), tourism in the country remains unaffected.
In a statement to trade partners and travel industry stakeholders, the STA explained that the SoE was implemented “solely to address and manage power outage issues that have been affecting parts of the country, particularly Upolu Island”.
There have been no reports of any civil unrest in Samoa, which is popular with holidaymakers for its beautiful beaches, laid-back vibes and warm hospitality.
“We want to emphasise that this situation poses no threat to the island of Savaii, public safety or tourism operations,” it stated.
“All international and domestic travel continues as normal, and visitor experiences remain uninterrupted. Samoa remains a safe, welcoming, and fully operational destination for travellers.
“All major tourism facilities, including resorts, hotels, transport services, and tour operators are functioning with minimal disruption.”
STA also moved to reassure visitors that the tourism sector is “well-prepared and continues to work closely with government agencies to ensure a seamless experience for our guests”.
“We deeply value the continuous support and confidence of our trade partners.”
Travel wholesaler Omniche Holidays told Karryon that “there have not been any concerns raised by our customers or by our travel agent partners”.
“We will continue to monitor the situation with our suppliers and if there are any changes we will contact our customers,” they stated.
Paul Yui, General Manager of South Pacific specialist and wholesaler, My Holiday said it’s “very much business as usual” right now.
“We’re actively engaging with our hotel partners to ensure continuity of service,” he told Karryon.
“Each property is equipped with its own generator and is given advance notice of any scheduled outages. As a result, power remains uninterrupted and guests are not affected.”
While Samoan officials say the impact on travel has been minimal, The Guardian reports that the tourism sector has been heavily affected by the crisis with only major resorts in possession of back-up power generators.
Aussie advice
In updated advice on 8 April, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) said the regular power outages were impacting some essential services.
“Check with accommodation providers and local contacts about impacted services,” it stated on its Smartraveller website.
“Monitor local media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities.”
DFAT has not raised its overall level of travel advice to Samoa, advising Australians to “Exercise normal safety precautions” while in the country.
Karryon has contacted the Samoa Tourist Authority for further comment.
In October 2024, the Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort, one of only a handful of major hotels in Samoa, officially reopened following major AU$15 million renovations, including updated rooms, restaurants and other guest experiences. Read about that here.
