PCCC-ISPCCR Training Program on Public-Private Collaboration and Project Management
Pacific Climate Change Center – Innovative Solutions for the Pacific Climate Change Resilience Training Program
22-26 September 2025
KVA Consult played a significant role in delivering the training programme on Public-Private Collaboration and Project Management, in joint collaboration with the Pacific Climate Change Centre (PCCC) at SPREP, the Government of Samoa, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Participants from national governments, private sectors (such as chambers of commerce and state-owned enterprises), NGOs and private companies across different sectors in the Pacific region gathered for the week-long in-person component of the Strengthening Public and Private Collaboration to Address Climate Change Impacts in the Pacific training course, having spent the previous weeks engaging with the training lectures, quizzes and materials provided online.
With lectures and presentations delivered by our KVA team, as well as guest speakers, we engaged participants in activities designed to build and enhance their skills for formulating climate change projects through public-private collaboration, and to strengthen knowledge and skills in project management necessary for the formulation, implementation and operation of climate change projects.
Samoa Emergency Preparedness and Response (EP&R) Diagnostic Report Validation
World Bank-Samoa EP&R Diagnostic Report Validation Workshop
11 September 2025
KVA Consult assisted in facilitating the Samoa Emergency Preparedness and Response Diagnostic Report Validation Workshop, hosted by the World Bank and the Disaster Management Office (NDMO) under MNRE at PCCC on the 11th September, 2025.
Taking place on the last day of the National Consultation on the Early Warnings for All (EW4ALL) Initiative, this validation workshop concluded a series of consultation workshops that provided a significant platform to strengthen Samoa’s resilience to disasters and climate change. As a small island developing state in the Pacific region, Samoa is among the most vulnerable to natural hazards, and Early Warning Systems remain central to saving lives, protecting livelihoods, and supporting development.
The Samoa Emergency Preparedness and Response Diagnostic Report Validation Workshop highlighted the fourth pillar of EW4All: Preparedness and Response, allowing stakeholders to provide feedback to further tailor the Diagnostic Report, prepared by Prepared International, to Samoa’s circumstances and context.
The outcomes of this Validation Workshop will inform Samoa’s roadmap for a safer and more resilient future where no one is left behind.
Sustainable Policy Dialogue
Unlocking Sustainable Finance: Key to Transition to Blue and Green Economy for Pacific SIDS
18-19 June 2025
A two-day Sustainable Finance Policy Dialogue (Talatalaga) was held in Apia, Samoa, bringing together over 60 participants including Pacific leaders, technical experts, and development partners to explore pathways for unlocking sustainable finance across Cook Islands, Niue, Samoa, and Tokelau.
Co-hosted by the UNDP Multi-Country Office for Samoa, Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau and Samoa’s Ministry of Finance, the dialogue focused on strengthening investment readiness and enabling environments to accelerate the region’s transition to inclusive, climate-resilient, and sustainable economies.
Under the theme “Unlocking Sustainable Finance for the Green & Blue Economy: Governance, Resilience, and Investment Pathways,” discussions centered on key country priorities, innovative financing practices, and the future of sustainable finance in the Pacific.
KVA Consult’s very own CEO, Nadia Meredith-Hunt, participated on the panel for ‘Sustainable Finance for the Energy Sector: Addressing Key Barriers in Pacific Island Contexts’, sharing valuable information and insights from projects that KVA Consult has undertaken in the Pacific, mainly the Energy Finance Assessment for Cook Islands, Niue, Samoa, and Tokelau for UNDP.
This collaborative effort reflects the Pacific’s shared commitment to building resilient economies, advancing people-centered development, and ensuring that economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability go hand in hand.
FEEP Policy 2025 Validation Workshop
Foreign Employee Employment Permit Validation Workshop with PACER Plus and MCIL Samoa
18 March 2025
Supported by PACER Plus, the Foreign Employee Employment Permit (FEEP) Policy 2025 Validation Workshop was hosted by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour (MCIL) on 18 March 2025 at Tusitala Tanoa Hotel. The workshop brought together stakeholders from government, private sector, worker representatives, and civil society to review and validate the draft policy.
The validation workshop highlighted the partnership between government, workers and employers in effective policy development. Through consultation sessions, stakeholders examined the proposed policy, raised concerns, and shared their views, ensuring all relevant voices were heard and considered.
KVA Consult was contracted as lead consultants to develop the Samoa FEEP Policy 2025, which provides a clear framework to manage foreign worker employment in Samoa. The policy addresses labour market challenges, including skills shortages, while promoting skills transfer to local workers. It also establishes measures to protect workers rights and welfare, while ensuring foreign employment arrangements support Samoa’s national development goals. The framework balances employer needs for skilled labour with government responsibility to protect local employment and maintain fair working conditions.
Initiative for Climate Action Transparency (ICAT) Project
Transport Pricing Training
13-14 August 2025
This two-day capacity-building programme focused on the ICAT Transport Pricing Tool, supporting Samoa’s efforts to design effective, evidence-based transport policies for a sustainable future. Conducted jointly by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) and the Land Transport Authority (LTA), in collaboration with UNEP, the training aimed to enhance national capacity to evaluate the economic, social, and environmental impacts of proposed transport policies.
Through hands-on sessions using real Samoa data, participants from key government agencies gained practical skills to model GHG emissions reductions, assess fiscal implications, and design policy frameworks that align climate action with national realities. This initiative reflects Samoa’s continued commitment to advancing sustainable transport and strengthening climate action transparency.
Renewable Energy Guide Training
11-13 February 2025
This three-day workshop was on the Initiative for Climate Action Transparency (ICAT) Renewable Energy Guide, offering a step-by-step approach to assess the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) impacts of renewable energy policies. Conducted at Taumeasina Island Resort by the Renewable Energy Division (RED) through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and in collaboration with UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre (UNEPCCC), the workshop aimed to empower Samoan policymakers and practitioners with the knowledge to make informed decisions on Renewable Energy policies. This training workshop is part of Samoa’s efforts to transition to a sustainable and low-carbon future.
Greenhouse Gas Abatement Cost Model (GACMO) Tool
4-6 February 2025
Through its Renewable Energy Division, MNRE successfully completed the ICAT Capacity Building Training held at Taumeasina Island Resort. The three-day workshop centered on the Greenhouse Gas Abatement Cost Model (GACMO) Tool, aiming at enhancing Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) systems across key sectors within Samoa. Participants included representatives from government agencies, development partners and technical experts, all working together to support Samoa in meeting its transparency obligations under the Paris Agreement.
ICAT Inception Workshop (December 2024)
7 December 2024
The Inception Workshop for the Initiative for Climate Action Transparency (ICAT) Project was hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, brought together by the Government of Samoa, UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre (UNEPCCC), and implementation partner, KVA. The workshop provided key stakeholders the opportunity to hold important discussions on the importance of a centralised MRV system, the development of a robust Climate Change Resilience Bill, and the need for improved tracking of Climate Finance.
Climate Action Pathways for Island Transport (CAP-IT) / Green Transformation Initiative Project
The Climate Action Pathways for Island Transport (CAP-IT) Project, funded by the Government of Japan, is driving Samoa’s transition to a green, low-carbon future. KVA Consult, in partnership with the Government of Samoa and UNDP, is spearheading initiatives to accelerate the nation’s green transformation, promoting clean energy and boosting resilience to climate impacts. Together, we’re advancing Samoa’s journey toward SDG #7: Affordable and Clean Energy.
Train the Trainers Course on EV Automotive Professional Continuation Training (PCT) (April 2025)
Wednesday 9th April, 2025, marks the completion of Samoa’s first ever certified local course for electric vehicle (EV) mechanics. There were 31 participants from different Government Ministries and Agencies, automotive trainers and teachers from the National University of Samoa, Don Bosco Technical College, and Laumua o Puna’oa Vocational School, received their certificates in a ceremony held at NUS after having completed the four-day Train the Trainers course on EV automotive Professional Continuation Training (PCT). The training was run by Paul Corbert, EV Specialist from Repco New Zealand, and was made possible under the CAP-IT Project, funded by the Government of Japan, and implemented by UNDP in collaboration with MWTI.
Launch of Decarbonisation Strategy for the Transport Sector, and Sustainable Land Use and Mobility Plan (April 2025)
On Tuesday 8th April, 2025 , the CAP-IT Project reached its latest milestone with the launch of the Transport Sector Decarbonisation Strategy and Sustainable Land Use and Mobility Plan at the Don Bosco Technical College. Samoa is now a step closer to a sustainable and decarbonised future with the collaboration of UNDP and the Government of Japan.
Sustainable Land Use and Mobility Plan Final Validation Workshop (March 2025)
On the 12th of March, 2025 , the Ministry of Works, Infrastructure and Transport hosted the Final Validation Workshop reviewing the Sustainable Land Use and Mobility Plan under the CAP-IT Project which was presented by Phil Harrison from FLOW NZ. The plan is a roadmap, guiding Samoa’s transition from fossil fuel dependency to a decarbonised transport sector. Key stakeholders present had the opportunity to provide feedback, supporting the initiative to improve transport services and creating a pathway to a sustainable Samoa.
CAP-IT Media Training Workshop (November 2024)
The Climate Action Pathways for Island Transport (CAP-IT) Media Workshop held on November 19, 2024, at Taumeasina Island Resort was a huge success! Participants explored Samoa’s efforts to decarbonise its land and maritime transport sectors through the Clean Green Samoa Campaign 2024. Highlights included an inspiring storytelling session with award-winning journalist Jehan Casinader, insights into electric vehicle maintenance, discussions on climate reporting, and engaging with youth on green transformation. A big fa’afetai to everyone who joined us to help amplify Samoa’s journey toward a sustainable future.
Launch of Electric Vehicles, Charging Stations and Documents for the CAP-IT (October 2024)
On October 3, 2024, the CAP-IT Project marked a major milestone with the unveiling of 76 electric vehicles, charging stations, and the launch of key project reports at the UN One House. Led by the Government of Samoa, in partnership with the Government of Japan and UNDP, this event highlighted Samoa’s commitment to a green and sustainable future, with the vehicles set to play a pivotal role during CHOGM 2024.
CAP-IT Meeting with Samoa Tourism Authority (September 2024)
On August 20, 2024, a follow-up meeting for the CAP-IT Project with the STA was held to discuss decarbonising Samoa’s tourism and transport sectors. Topics included integrating e-buses and e-bicycles for cruise tourism, energy audits for hotels, and incentives for transitioning operators to clean energy. The meeting also explored partnerships, infrastructure needs like EV charging stations, and aligning CAP-IT’s Clean Green Samoa campaign with the rebranding of Samoa’s tourism sector. Together, we’re driving a low-carbon future for Samoa.
Community Consultation with Falealili for CAP-IT Project (July 2024)
In July 2024, the CAP-IT Project team held a community consultation in Falealili, led by the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, in collaboration with UNDP and KVA Consult. The session focused on informing the community about the introduction of electric vehicles and charging stations, highlighting their role in Samoa’s decarbonization journey. Engaging our people is key to driving a greener, more sustainable future.
Inception Workshop for CAP-IT Project (February 2024)
In February 2024, the Inception Workshop for the Climate Action Pathways for Island Transport (CAP-IT) Project brought together the Government of Samoa, UNDP, and implementation partners KVA Consult, Flow, and Foreseeable. Hosted by the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, the workshop set the stage for transformative strategies to decarbonize Samoa’s transport sector under the Government of Japan-funded initiative. This collaborative effort marks a key step toward a cleaner, greener future for Samoa.
EU-PIFS-Tonga (MTED) Project Fiche Under the SPIRIT Project
Development of a Project Fiche for the Provision of Medium- to Long-Term Support Projects to Increase the Level of Export Readiness and Competitiveness of Tonga for the European Union Market (September 2024)
The development of the Project Fiche represents a significant step forward in advancing Tonga’s private sector development, with the ultimate goal of improving quality of life for Tongans and enabling local businesses to capitalise on opportunities within the European Union market. KVA Consult was engaged by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat under the SPIRIT project, to provide technical assistance for this initiative for Tonga (Ministry of Trade and Economic Development).
The consultancy works included conducting comprehensive stakeholder engagement involving government, private sector representatives, and relevant non-state actors to identify and address critical gaps in export readiness and knowledge of EU market standards and requirements. These foundational activities informed the creation of a strategic framework that addresses the unique challenges and opportunities facing Tongan exporters.
The culmination of KVA Consult’s engagement was a comprehensive Project Fiche outlining medium- to long-term support designed to strengthen the capacity of Tonga’s private sector. This strategic document provides a clear roadmap for building export competitiveness and enabling local businesses to effectively leverage the market access provisions available under the interim Economic Partnership Agreement (iEPA).
Promoting Just Transition for the Benefit of All
The National University of Samoa and the United Nations Development Programme rolled out a series of policy dialogues on a just green transition. The third policy dialogue co-hosted by the National University of Samoa and the United Nations Development Programme, held on 17th July 2024, focused on facilitating a just green transition for human development in Samoa.
Representatives from various sectors in government, private sector and civil society, as well as academia, were well represented in the policy dialogue.The panelists for this policy dialogue included Galumalemana Titi Schwalger representing KVA Consult.
Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit 2023
The Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit 2023 was hosted and developed by the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council on the 27–28 November, in London. The Summit Programme welcomed Heads of Government, Senior Ministers and Business Leaders from across the Commonwealth for two days of sessions, meetings and networking.
The 2023 Summit Programme focused on key economic challenges and opportunities facing the Commonwealth, and identified areas in which the Commonwealth can help finance emerging markets, engage in sustainable business practices, and strengthen collaboration between the public and private sector.
Australia-Samoa Digital Economy Fellowship
Hosted by EY in Melbourne, Australia with Support from DFAT. With EY, KVA Consult facilitated important discussions on the future of Samoa with many participants from the public and private sectors in Samoa.
Stable Government and Good Governance Study Tour
Hosted by the Leadership Samoa Program, a non-profit and non-government organisation aiming to create a network of emerging and future leaders of Samoa. Co-Managing Director of KVA Consult, Kolone Vaai presented to LS2016 during the Stable Government and Good Governance Study Tour.
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