The Government of Samoa and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have officially executed a grant agreement worth $100 million to fund the Alaoa Multipurpose Dam Project. This initiative is designed to enhance flood risk management, ensure a sustainable water supply, and bolster renewable energy security in Samoa. Samoa's Minister of Finance and ADB's Regional Director attended the signing ceremony in Apia.
Minister Vaai highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, "The Government of Samoa is delighted to collaborate with ADB, with funding support from the Ireland Trust Fund for Building Climate Change and Disaster Resilience in Small Island Developing States. This collaboration aims to support Samoa's renewable energy, climate adaptation, and flood control goals through this project, benefiting the population in the project areas." The project will involve the construction of a multipurpose dam in Apia designed to mitigate flood risks, ensure a dependable water supply, and integrate a small hydropower plant to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The Alaoa Multipurpose Dam Project also entails the creation of an innovative biodiversity offset trust fund. This fund aims to ensure no net loss of biodiversity and to provide sustainable financing for biodiversity protection and enhancement beyond the completion of the project. Aaron Batten emphasised the extensive assessments and technical analyses to ensure the project's resilience to climate and disasters. He also underscored the importance of close consultations with stakeholders, including affected villages, government agencies, civil society organisations, and non-government organisations, which were crucial to the project preparation.
The project, which involved around 60 extensive consultations and meetings conducted over a five-year preparation period, reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing climate adaptation. This initiative demonstrates ADB's commitment to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific.
Established in 1966, ADB is owned by 68 members, 49 of whom are from the region. This grant and the Alaoa Multipurpose Dam Project signify a significant step forward in Samoa's efforts to build resilience against climate change and promote sustainable development.
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