Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all
Period:
29/Jan/2025-31/Mar/2025
Project Name:
Samoa Foreign Employee Employment Permit (FEEP) Policy
Client:
PACER Plus Implementation Unit; Government of Samoa (MCIL)
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Policy Formulation
Project Description:
KVA Consult was engaged to develop the new Foreign Employee Employment Permit (FEEP) Policy to align with Samoa’s evolving labour market needs and national development goals under the Pathway for the Development Samoa (PDS). In 2023, the Government of Samoa, through the PPIU, commissioned a review of the 2017 FEEP Policy to assess its effectiveness, alignment with national priorities, and international commitments. Based on the review’s findings, this assignment involves updating the policy and conducting a validation workshop to ensure stakeholder alignment and buy-in.
Services Provided:
Submit Inception Report and Conduct Desk Review: Outline the work plan, analyze the 2023 FEEP review report, labour market data, legislation, and international best practices. Engage Stakeholders and Collect Data: Distribute online surveys, conduct consultations with the Samoa National Tripartite Forum (SNTF), key stakeholders, and individual interviews. Develop Draft FEEP Policy: Synthesize research and stakeholder inputs, integrate recommendations, and design implementation and monitoring frameworks. Validate Policy with Stakeholders: Present the draft policy in a validation workshop, gather feedback, and refine recommendations. Finalize and Submit Policy: Incorporate feedback, finalize the policy, prepare a summary for MCIL, and submit for endorsement.
Period:
28/Jun/2024-16/Sep/2024
Project Name:
Development of a Project Fiche for Tonga for the provision of medium- to long-term support projects to increase the level of export readiness and competitiveness of the Private Sector for the EU market
Client:
PIFS; Government of Tonga (MTED)
Location:
Tonga
Type of Assignment:
Programme Formulation
Project Description:
The private sector’s development is crucial for Tonga’s strategic goal of achieving a higher quality of life, but progress has been slow, with overall activity remaining low. Despite opportunities in the EU market, particularly for exotic products, Tonga’s export readiness is hampered by limited knowledge of EU market opportunities, standards, and entry requirements. To address this, the consultancy aims to provide technical assistance in formulating a Project Fiche for long-term support, and to develop export readiness and competitiveness indices to help the private sector capitalize on market access under the interim Economic Partnership Agreement (iEPA).
Services Provided:
Conduct an Inception Phase meeting with the Project Manager and submit an Inception Report detailing project activities, timelines, and stakeholder alignment. Lead Stakeholder Engagement by finalizing key participants from government, private sector, and non-state actors, and disseminating an online questionnaire to gather inputs. Undertake Project Identification and Analysis using survey results to prioritise projects, outlining objectives, target groups, activities, timelines, results, indicators, and risks for the Project Summary Fiche. Prepare and submit Final Deliverables, including a detailed Project Fiche with financing plans and a logical framework, and a comprehensive Final Report for stakeholder validation and Ministry endorsement.
Period:
13/May/2024-21/Jun/2024
Project Name:
PACER Plus Skills Training Stocktake for Samoa
Client:
PACER Plus Implementation Unit
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Assessment
Project Description:
The objective of this assignment was to conduct a comprehensive stocktake of the training programmes at the labour-sending end, using Samoa as a case study. This will involve the stocktaking of available skills in the domestic market and those available for deployment under the labour mobility programmes, identifying skills gaps, and stocktaking available learning and training programmes that address these skills gaps, and highlighting key findings and recommendations to inform the Government of Samoa’s policies and decision-making around labour mobility.
Services Provided:
Comprehensive Review and Analysis: Reviewed the APTC Samoa Skills Plan 2022 and related documents, analyzed existing literature, and mapped key stakeholders to understand the skills development and reintegration landscape in Samoa. Stakeholder Consultations and Data Collection: Conducted interviews with key informants and requested datasets from specific agencies to gather insights on current skills, training programs, and inclusiveness aspects like gender equality, disability, and social inclusion. Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyzed collected data to identify skills gaps and opportunities for training program enhancement, presented findings and actionable recommendations, and prepared a draft report for stakeholder review and validation.
Period:
20/Nov/2023-31/Dec/2025
Project Name:
Revitalisation efforts of the Pacific Islands Private Sector Organisation (PIPSO)
Client:
PIFS; PIPSO
Location:
Cook Islands, Fiji, FSM, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Palau, PNG, RMI, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Administration Management
Project Description:
The assignment involves providing technical assistance to the Pacific Islands Private Sector Organisation (PIPSO), which was established to represent and advocate for the private sector’s interests in the Pacific Islands. PIPSO engages with governments, development partners, and other stakeholders on policies, regulations, and capacity building. The assignment aims to support the PIPSO board in managing the Secretariat, engaging with members, and interacting with partners, especially following the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Funded by the Republic of Korea through the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, the assignment includes managing the Secretariat’s functions and ensuring effective communication and support.
Services Provided:
Update the PIPSO membership database, reestablish the accounting system, manage member subscriptions, and ensure financial audits are conducted. Reboot the PIPSO website and social media platforms, reestablish regular communication with members, and strengthen the Private Sector Dialogue with key regional partners. Provide secretariat support to the PIPSO Board, assist in strengthening private sector representation and advocacy, complete financial reporting, and explore the establishment of a Pacific-Korea business network.
Period:
07/Jul/2023-29/Mar/2024
Project Name:
PIFS Development of Project Fiche for Samoa
Client:
PIFS; Government of Samoa (MFAT)
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Planning
Project Description:
The Secretariat contracted KVA to formulate a Project Fiche for the medium to long-term support projects, and to develop and implement export readiness and competitiveness indices, as a component of supporting the development of the private sector to take advantage of the market access created under the Interim EU-Pacific Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA) as identified in Samoa’s National Interim EPA Implementation Plan (NIPA)
Services Provided:
Provided technical assistance to formulate a project fiche for the provision of medium to long-term projects, and to develop and implement export readiness and competitiveness indices. Provided an inception report, reported on questionnaire findings, provided a project summary fiche and final report.
Period:
05/Jun/2023-30/Sep/2023
Project Name:
Samoa Enterprise Survery 2023
Client:
Mekong Economics LTD
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Survey
Project Description:
Mekong Economics LTD , contracted by the World Bank for a Samoa Enterprise Survey, subcontracted KVA to implement the Enterprise Survey in Samoa.
Services Provided:
Researched and obtained sample frame, nominated and managed the screening team for survey, translated documents needed to implement the survey, assisted in organising of training workshops, delivered pilot report. Survey implementation and data entry.
Period:
10/Dec/2021-30/Nov/2024
Project Name:
Impact Private Sector Partnerships
Client:
Australia DFAT
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Financial Management
Project Description:
The project aims to address unemployment in Samoa, particularly among women and people with disabilities, by establishing an outsourcing accounting center through WE Samoa. This center will bridge the skills gap in New Zealand while offering affordable services to consumers. Located near the National University of Samoa, it will provide learning and job opportunities for students, graduates, and professionals, fostering the growth of local accounting expertise and creating high-paying jobs. The project is supported by DFAT, which seeks to leverage private sector investment for development, with KVAConsult Ltd. responsible for financial oversight and reporting.
Services Provided:
KVAConsult is responsible for delivering financial oversight and ensuring accountability in a project aimed at reducing unemployment in Samoa through the establishment of an outsourcing accounting center by WE Samoa. KVA’s primary tasks include receiving project funds from Palladium, disbursing them to WE Samoa, and providing comprehensive final project reports to DFAT. While currently focused on administrative support, KVA must ensure the secure and transparent management of project funds, aligning with the project’s values of social change and gender inclusivity.
Period:
01/Sep/2013-30/Nov/2013
Project Name:
Enhanced Integrated Framework Tier Two Proposal
Client:
Government of Samoa (MCIL)
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Programme Formulation
Project Description:
Prior to Samoa’s WTO graduation from Least Developed Country status, the Government of Samoa wished to access funding to support the development of its languishing export sector. The goal of the project was to prepare a proposal (using the template in the Enhanced Integrated Framework Compendium) aimed at securing Aid for Trade funding. The project also increased the capacity of local counterparts in project proposal development and improved linkages between the Government of Samoa and donor partners with respect to developing trade, commerce and manufacturing.
Services Provided:
Information gathering, both through a desk review of relevant documents and through consultations with ministries and key stakeholders; formulation of a draft results diagram, logical framework and product profiles compliant with the template requirements; presentation of the draft proposal to the Steering Group; submission of the final proposal.
Period:
01/Sep/2013-24/Dec/2013
Project Name:
SBEC Remuneration Review & HR Development Plan
Client:
Small Business Enterprise Centre
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Review
Project Description:
The project had three main objectives: to review the client’s remuneration and salary classifications relative to the current Samoa labour market and cost of living; to assess the organisational structure and the roles, responsibilities and remuneration packages of each position; to assess the human resources available and propose personalised career development plans.
Services Provided:
Information gathering, including: review client’s plans, personnel policies and procedures and position descriptions; consultation with all staff and Board; analysis of labour market; analysis of cost of living changes; report containing: an analysis of the contextual findings; a proposed remuneration package for staff; an HR development plan.
Period:
01/Jun/2013-31/Jan/2014
Project Name:
Accession Commitments & Least Developed Countries
Client:
Government of Samoa, International Trade Centre
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Policy Advisory
Project Description:
The project studied Samoa’s VAGST regime and options for reforming it in a way which was WTO-consistent, pro-development and which would not create undue burdens for subsistence farmers and vulnerable communities.
Services Provided:
Information gathering and data analysis of: primary data from farmers, government officials and non-government officials through field surveys, an on-line survey and individual and group focus meetings; secondary data from the 2009 agriculture census, the Central Bank of Samoa Bulletin, the Samoa Bureau of Statistics, and the Ministry for Revenue; formulation of a draft report presenting the key findings; submission of a final report taking into account feedback from the workshop; a national stakeholder workshop to validate the recommendations.
Period:
01/Oct/2012-31/Dec/2015
Project Name:
CRGA: Independent Audit & Risk Committee
Client:
The Pacific Community (SPC)
Location:
New Caledonia
Type of Assignment:
Policy Formulation
Project Description:
To provide expert financial and economic advice on regional matters to the Audit & Risk Committee of the Committee of Representatives of Governments & Administrations (CRGA), on behalf of the Government of Samoa.
Services Provided:
Regular attendance at meetings in Noumea, New Caledonia; contribution to working papers and reports.
Period:
01/Feb/2012-30/Apr/2015
Project Name:
Finance Sector Plan Development
Client:
Government of Samoa (MOF)
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Planning
Project Description:
To undertake a detailed analysis of the Finance Sector to assist in the consultation for, and formulation of, the first Finance Sector Plan for the Government of Samoa.
Services Provided:
Deliverables included an inception report; an outline of the Finance Sector Plan with the main components based on the initial review and consultations; a first draft Finance Sector Plan which included the institutional arrangements for the sector; a monitoring and evaluation plan with key performance indicators and a prioritised investment plan; and a final Finance Sector Plan which incorporated feedback on the draft plan.
Period:
21/Nov/2011-22/Nov/2011
Project Name:
Governance & Economic Stability Quality at Implementation: Peer Review
Client:
Government of Samoa
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Review
Project Description:
Reviewed documents and materials relevant to the Quality at Implementation (QAI) report for the Governance and Economic Stability Programme.
Services Provided:
Reviewed materials relevant to the Quality at Implementation (QAI) report; participated in the QAI Peer Review meeting.
Period:
01/May/2009-01/Sep/2009
Project Name:
East Asia-Pacific Enterprise Survey: Samoa
Client:
World Bank
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Survey
Project Description:
The East Asia-Pacific Enterprise Survey Initiative was a World Bank Group programme that consolidated and standardised the Enterprise Surveys (formerly the Investment Climate Surveys). The goal was to implement a standardised method in surveying the manufacturing and service sectors in Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa, and Micronesia.
Services Provided:
Provided feedback from establishments on the state of the private sector in Samoa; provided statistically significant investment climate indicators comparable across countries; assessed the constraints to private sector growth and enterprise performance; built a panel of enterprise data that would make it possible to track changes in the business environment over time; stimulated systematic policy dialogue on the business environment and to help shape the agenda for reform.
Period:
24/Mar/2009-15/Sep/2009
Project Name:
Regional Private Sector Brochure
Client:
Pacific Islands Private Sector Organistion
Location:
Cook Islands, Fiji, FSM, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Business Development
Project Description:
Coordination and writing of promotional brochure on the Pacific Islands Private Sector Organisation (PIPSO) Conference.
Services Provided:
Drafted and edited promotional material.
Period:
19/Mar/2009-30/Jun/2009
Project Name:
Pacific Financial Technical Assistance Centre: Tripartite Review
Client:
Pacific Financial Technical Assistance Centre
Location:
Cook Islands, Fiji, FSM, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Review
Project Description:
The evaluation assessed the extent to which the objectives of the Pacific Financial Technical Assistance Centre (PFTAC) have been achieved and the outputs produced. It commented on the relevance of the TA and training provided, its effectiveness in addressing countries’ capacity constraints, as well as the efficiency with which the TA and training had been delivered.
Services Provided:
Preparation and submission of brief work-plan; document review; field-work included meetings with PFTAC constituents and stakeholders, donor agencies, and the IMF; briefings with the Chairman, the PFTAC Coordinator, and PFTAC advisors; visited three PFTAC member countries, in addition to Fiji, two donors and IMF headquarters; conducted a comparative analysis of PFTAC results and comparable organisations; developed case studies; prepared and submitted the draft evaluation report to the Chairman with a copy to the PFTAC Coordinator; finalised and submitted final report.
Period:
01/Jan/2009-01/Apr/2010
Project Name:
Enhanced Integrated Framework Diagnostic Trade Integration Study
Client:
Government of Samoa (MFAT); UNDP
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Programme Formulation
Project Description:
The purpose of the trade integration study was to identify key constraints to Samoa’s integration to the multi-lateral trading system and the global economy.
Services Provided:
The study included a review and analysis of the country’s economic and export
performance; an assessment of the macro-economic environment and the country’s investment climate; an assessment of the international policy environment and the specific constraints that the country’s exports faced in international markets; an analysis of key labour-intensive sectors for expansion of output, exports and employment; recommendations for policy reforms, institutional capacity implications, and action plans to remove bottlenecks and seize opportunities identified in the diagnostic study.
Period:
01/Aug/2008-30/Oct/2008
Project Name:
Regional Small, Medium & Micro-Enterprises Forum: PIPSO Coordinator
Client:
Pacific Islands Private Sector Organistion (PIPSO)
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Event Management
Project Description:
Coordinate logistics and provide support for the Forum.
Services Provided:
Undertook the role as Specific Coordinator for the Pacific Islands Private Sector Organisation (PIPSO) Small Medium Micro-Enterprise Forum hosted in Samoa from 14 to 16 October 2008. Over 140 participants from throughout the Pacific region attended, including members of the business and donor communities.
Period:
08/Jul/2008-08/Dec/2008
Project Name:
Economic Impact of a New Mobile Phone Service Provider in Samoa
Client:
Private Sector Company
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Business Development
Project Description:
The consultancy involved the preparation of an Economic Impact Assessment Report that was to be used as a submission to government seeking permission for a foreign telecommunications company to enter the Samoan market.
Services Provided:
Collection, review and analysis of information required for the preparation of the Economic Impact Assessment Report; analysis of telecommunication sector and impact of a new telecommunication service provider on the sector and on the economy; preparation of an Economic Impact Assessment Report for the purpose of presentation to the Government of Samoa.
Period:
15/Jun/2008-30/Oct/2008
Project Name:
Regional Small, Medium & Micro-Enterprises Forum: Private Sector Expert
Client:
Pacific Islands Private Sector Organisation (PIPSO)
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Business Development
Project Description:
Undertook the role of technical expert for the Pacific Islands Private Sector Organisation (PIPSO) Small Medium Micro-Enterprise (SMME) Forum hosted in Samoa from 14 to 16 October 2008. Over 140 participants from throughout the Pacific region attended including members of the business and donor communities.
Services Provided:
Provided expert technical advice to key stakeholders PIPSO and BizClim for the coordination and implementation of the SMME Forum. An evaluation of the forum from its implementation to policy outcomes was conducted and submitted to the client.
Period:
01/Apr/2008-01/May/2008
Project Name:
Financial Statements, Financial Ratios & Interpretation Training Workshop
Client:
National Bank of Samoa (NBS)
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Training and Capacity Building
Project Description:
Prepared and delivered training to the bank’s Lending Department staff members on understanding financial statements, financial ratios and interpretation, to enable the proper assessment of loan financing proposals from bank clients (business and personal) and preparation of loan submissions for approval.
Services Provided:
Prepared training outline and structure based on revised staff training needs analysis in the area of understanding financial statements, ratios and interpretation; prepared training schedule and programme; prepared training materials (for training and for staff reference); prepared presentation for the delivery of training to sixteen NBS nominated participants; prepared and submitted a final report on an assessment of the training and recommendations in moving forward.
Period:
01/Apr/2007-01/Nov/2007
Project Name:
Economy Survey: Samoa
Client:
Australian National University
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Survey
Project Description:
Preparation of a survey of the Samoan economy and presentation of Samoan Economic Update.
Services Provided:
Conducted and documented a survey of the Samoan economy for the Pacific Economic Bulletin (Vol 22 No 2); presented survey findings at the Crawford School of Economics and Government in Australia; presented a paper entitled Samoan Economic Update during government and public meetings in Apia in September 2007. These meetings were hosted by ANU and the National University of Samoa.
Period:
01/Mar/2007-01/May/2007
Project Name:
Strengthening Pro-Poor Policy in the Pacific
Client:
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Location:
Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Evaluation
Project Description:
The project entailed preparation of case studies on capacity development in the Pacific region considering a range of experiences by sector, theme, region and source of external support.
Services Provided:
Reviewed capacity development documentation per country including national and sectoral plans, strategies, evaluations and reviews; reviewed ADB corporate documents relating to capacity development and technical assistance; reviewed country research studies and evaluations undertaken by other institutions; conducted country visits, interviews, consultations and completed questionnaires with stakeholders including governments, private sector, civil society organisations and development partners; prepared and submitted report to client
Period:
01/Feb/2007-01/Jul/2007
Project Name:
Regional SME Development
Client:
ComSec
Location:
Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Business Development
Project Description:
The capacity development project was initiated by the Commonwealth Secretariat following a request for technical assistance from the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat on behalf of PI states. The focus of the project was on strategy formulation for small and medium enterprise (SME) competitiveness and institutional capacity building of SME agencies in Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu. The objective of the project was to enhance SME segment capacity by establishing networking and clustering systems and assisting in the development of SME strategies in each country.
Services Provided:
Assessed SME sectors in each country and identified key elements for formation and success of indigenous business networks; mapped out appropriate SME development strategies; assisted with the training of network brokers for each country; coordinated logistics for country visits, meetings and consultations and for the Network Broker training workshop in Apia.
Period:
01/Oct/2006-01/Nov/2006
Project Name:
Taxes & Duty on Alcoholic Products: Submission for Change
Client:
Private Sector Company
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Policy Advisory
Project Description:
Reviewed the basis of assessing excise taxes and customs duties on alcoholic beverages, and prepared a case for a new methodology.
Services Provided:
Prepared a submission to the Government of Samoa seeking to change the basis of assessing excise taxes and customs duties on alcoholic beverages.
Period:
01/Aug/2006-01/Mar/2007
Project Name:
Strategic Plan (2004-2009): Mid-term Review
Client:
Private Sector Company
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Review
Project Description:
Assessed progress towards implementation of the six strategic issues in the five-year plan and recommended options for improving implementation; analysed the organisation’s staff salary packages for consistency and relevance to the Samoan employment market; recommended changes based on the analysis.
Services Provided:
Assessed the implementation of six key strategies and the outcomes achieved, evaluating whether strategic areas and core services remained relevant. Reviewed and updated identified constraints, analysed implications of ADB Project completion, and developed options to minimise impacts. Examined management and Board use of the strategic plan and recommended improvements for implementation and outcomes. Analysed individual positions and remuneration compared with equivalent roles in government, private sector, and similar Samoan organisations, providing options for revised salary scales. The assessment aimed to strengthen strategic alignment, enhance organisational performance, and ensure equitable and competitive compensation structures to support staff retention and effectiveness.
Period:
01/Jun/2004-01/Dec/2005
Project Name:
Establishment of Samoa Credit Reference Bureau
Client:
Government of Samoa
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Financial Analysis
Project Description:
Created financial models for a credit bureau that would provide a central database that stores individuals and/or commercial credit applications and payment behaviour data.
Services Provided:
Built financial models and various scenarios on the feasibility of the venture; compiled an Investment Memorandum document for seeking potential investors in the credit bureau.
Period:
01/Nov/2003-01/May/2004
Project Name:
On-line Investment Promotion for Pacific Island Countries
Client:
ComSec, MIGA
Location:
Cook Islands, Fiji, FSM, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Business Development
Project Description:
This project was to establish an on-line presence for Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) in the Pacific, to enhance the promotion of investment in Pacific Island Countries.
Services Provided:
KVAConsult Ltd was involved in the development of websites for each of the 14 Pacific Island Countries using the IPAWorks programme. Services included: assisting in installation and hosting of the IPAWorks websites for a two-year period; developing masthead graphics for the IPAWorks websites; assisting in selection of the set up of website addresses for the IPAs; offering routine technical support over the initial two-year period. Two training workshops, held in Suva and Apia, were conducted for IPAs on technical and content development of their sites.
Period:
01/Aug/2003-01/Oct/2003
Project Name:
Rules of Origin Study
Client:
Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS)
Location:
Cook Islands, Fiji, FSM, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Survey
Project Description:
The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat was coordinating studies to prepare the Pacific Region for the negotiation of new trading arrangements with the European Union. The study on rules of origin provided an analysis of the level of Pacific trade with the EU, of existing issues relating to rules of origin market access to the EU market and of strategy options for Pacific states
Services Provided:
KVAConsult Ltd provide overall guidance and coordination for the study, undertook consultations with Government officials and the private sector in the countries visited, analysed the findings and developed negotiating strategies on rules of origin for the negotiations. The findings from the study were presented at the Pacific Trade Experts Advisory Committee.
Period:
14/May/2003-16/May/2003
Project Name:
WTO Accession & Pacific Island Countries
Client:
AITIC
Location:
Cook Islands, Fiji, FSM, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Policy Advisory
Project Description:
The consultant made presentations at the workshop on the World Trade Organisation (WTO) as well as assisting in the following areas: agreement on agriculture; general agreement on trade and services; special and differential treatment; expressing the interests of Pacific Island countries; and developing strategies for WTO negotiations.
Services Provided:
Prepared presentations for the workshop; chaired various parts of the workshop; carried out sessions on the negotiation process for accession of countries to WTO.
Period:
03/Mar/2003-12/May/2003
Project Name:
Analysing Benefits & Costs of WTO Membership on PICs
Client:
Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)
Location:
Cook Islands, Fiji, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Project Description:
Prepared an information paper for Pacific Ministers of Agriculture on the benefits and costs of WTO membership for Pacific Island countries. The study reviewed trade policies, identified constraints in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and food production, and provided recommendations to assist governments in making informed decisions regarding WTO participation.
Services Provided:
Coordinated travel arrangements and appointments; led the team on the mission to selected islands; provided overall guidance to the team; reviewed draft reports prepared; prepared the final report incorporating inputs from other team members as well as from the client.
Period:
01/Aug/2002-01/Oct/2002
Project Name:
Small Island Developing States Needs in a Liberalised Agricultural Sector
Client:
UNCTAD
Location:
Fiji, Samoa, Tonga
Type of Assignment:
Programme Formulation
Project Description:
UNCTAD commissioned studies on the impact of WTO agricultural liberalisation on small island developing states (SIDS) across the Indian Ocean, Caribbean, and Pacific. The study examined SIDS’ trade vulnerabilities, marginalisation of preferences, effects of liberalisation on agriculture, and how SIDS’ specific needs could be addressed within international trade policies.
Services Provided:
The study involved consultations with government officials (trade, finance and agriculture) in the three countries involved, regional organisations and private sector companies.
Period:
01/Jun/2002-01/May/2003
Project Name:
Small Business Loan Guarantee Scheme
Client:
Government of Samoa, Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Business Development
Project Description:
The ADB project in Samoa looked at providing support for the development of small businesses through a loan guarantee scheme. The objective of the scheme was to provide support for the development of small businesses from grassroots level.
Services Provided:
Technical assistance in developing a manual of procedures for the operation of a Small Business Loan Guarantee Scheme to be administered by the Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC). Consultations with SBEC staff, the banks and small business clients provided an outline of the procedures to be put in place for the scheme. A workshop was also conducted to get a collaborative approach amongst all stakeholders on the best procedures.
Period:
01/Aug/2001-01/Dec/2003
Project Name:
Household Income & Expenditure Survey
Client:
Government of Samoa, Asian Development Bank
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Survey
Project Description:
The project assessed the economic and social situation of Samoan households in 2003 through a national survey and a Participatory Poverty Assessment (qualitative survey on hardship). It aimed to evaluate poverty levels, understand household challenges, and provide evidence to inform policy, strategy development, and national economic planning.
Services Provided:
Established a Survey Advisory Committee (SAC) and briefed key partners on project objectives. Reviewed the 1997 Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES) and provided input to the design of HIES 2002, including methodology, questionnaire, and sampling. Oversaw monitoring of HIES fund disbursements and provided secretariat support for SAC. Consulted SAC members and key partners, coordinated and prepared materials for the Poverty Stakeholders workshop, recorded group discussions, and disseminated a report on workshop proceedings. Analysed HIES findings, workshop feedback, and draft recommendations to support implementation of country strategies. Drafted and refined the final report incorporating stakeholder input.
Period:
01/Jul/2001-01/Aug/2001
Project Name:
e-Commerce Readiness in the Pacific
Client:
SPPF
Location:
Fiji, Palau, PNG, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Programme Formulation
Project Description:
Carried out research and prepared report identifying parameters of a strategy to assist small and medium-sized enterprises in the Pacific Islands optimise benefits from e-commerce.
Services Provided:
Undertook a stock-take of existing publications and ICT initiatives in six Pacific Island countries; reviewed ICT infrastructure legislative environments; determined the extent of use of internet and e-commerce in the region; conducted a relative assessment of readiness of countries to adopt e-commerce; attended a regional conference in New Caledonia on development of an ICT strategic development plan for Pacific countries; compiled a final report which included ICT profiles of the six countries.
Period:
20/Feb/2001-22/Feb/2001
Project Name:
PFTAC Conference on Financial Sector Stability & Development: Presentation
Client:
PFTAC
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Policy Advisory
Project Description:
The project involved the preparation and presentation of a paper on the institutional support necessary to underpin the design and implementation of effective monetary policies in the context of small island economies. The presentation covered: linkages between fiscal and monetary policy institutions; governance and management of monetary authorities/central banks; the performance of financial institutions; and regional cooperation possibilities.
Services Provided:
Services provided include compilation of a paper and its presentation at the Pacific Financial technical Assistance Centre (PFTAC) Conference on Financial Sector Stability and Development held in Apia on 20 – 22 February 2001.
Period:
27/Nov/2000-28/Nov/2000
Project Name:
Asian Economic Outlook: Pacific Economic Options
Client:
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Location:
Cook Islands, Fiji, FSM, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Philippines, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Policy Advisory
Project Description:
Presented a paper at the Thirteenth Workshop on the Asian Economic Outlook organised by the Asian Development Bank.
Services Provided:
Prepared and presented a paper on Macroeconomic Trends in the Pacific Region.
Period:
01/Oct/2000-01/Nov/2000
Project Name:
Building Project: Feasibility Study
Client:
Development Bank of Samoa
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Feasibility Study
Project Description:
The feasibility study examined the proposal to develop a multi-storied office complex on the Bank’s current lease site for consideration by the Board of Directors of the Bank and subsequently for submission to the Government of Samoa for a Final Decision.
Services Provided:
Prepared a feasibility study.
Period:
01/Jun/2000-01/Dec/2000
Project Name:
Programme of Action for LDCs: Samoa’s Submission for 2001-2010
Client:
Government of Samoa
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Policy Advisory
Project Description:
Under the direction of the governmental focal point for country preparations for the Third United Nations Conference on Least Developed Countries (LDC), and guidance from the Office of the Special Coordinator for Least Developed Countries in the UNCTAD Secretariat, prepared a national Programme of Action for the upcoming decade (2001-2010), in accordance with UNCTAD’s guidelines, for submission to the conference.
Services Provided:
Evaluated the advantages that Samoa had derived from its LDC status in the 1990s, in the light of the Programme of Action for the LDCs for the 1990s and of the range of benefits theoretically granted to the LDCs category; formulated a development strategy for the upcoming decade, on the basis of details of financial needs relevant to the public sector investment programme, evaluation of those needs to provide a broad estimate of the assistance required by Samoa for implementing its Programme of Action.
Period:
01/Mar/2000-31/Mar/2000
Project Name:
Privatisation of Shipping Services in Samoa
Client:
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Embassy of Japan
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Evaluation
Project Description:
To assess shipping privatisation strategies and their impact on the development and management of transport facilities provided under foreign aid.
Services Provided:
Reviewed literature and interviewed government and business leaders on the privatisation strategies in Samoa. Also analysed in detail the financial operations of the Samoa Shipping Corporation and financing policies for maintenance and procurement of replacement facilities.
Period:
20/Feb/2000-27/Feb/2000
Project Name:
Cultivating Financial Transparency in the Pacific Conference: Presentation
Client:
TINZ
Location:
Fiji
Type of Assignment:
Policy Advisory
Project Description:
The conference was financially supported by NZODA, World Bank, UNDP, the Canadian Government, and the British High Commission. Its objective was to foster a more transparent financial culture in Pacific countries. The Conference was to give journalists and financiers an opportunity to explain their professional needs and to understand the needs of others. It was to encourage participants to identify improvements in private sector and public sector accounting and reporting procedures which would increase transparency.
Services Provided:
Presented paper entitled Improving Financial Governance in the Public Sector Throughout The Pacific – Future Needs.
Period:
01/Feb/2000-01/Mar/2000
Project Name:
Economic Report: Samoa
Client:
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Policy Advisory
Project Description:
Project was undertaken in response to a request from the Government of Samoa to prepare a Pacific Island Economic Report on Samoa, to be published in ADB’s Pacific Studies Series.
Services Provided:
Undertook a literature review for the sectors to be analysed by the international consultants, identifying relevant publications and government aid agency and consultants’ reports, and providing brief summaries of their content and conclusions; prepared a report summarising the mid-1999 implementation status of reform actions described in Strengthening the Partnership: A Statement of Economic Strategy 1998-1999; and provided advice to team members as required during the team’s field-work in Samoa.
Period:
01/Jul/1999-01/Oct/1999
Project Name:
Corporate Sector Legal & Regulatory Environment Review
Client:
Government of Samoa
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Review
Project Description:
The project reviewed Samoa’s corporate sector legal framework, including state-owned enterprises, emerging trends, and the impact of government policies and public sector reforms. It assessed the adequacy of laws, their administration, and the capacity of private financial markets to apply best practices, providing recommendations for legal and administrative reforms.
Services Provided:
KVAConsult provided an overview of the corporate sector in Samoa; an analysis of governance in the state-owned corporate sector; participated in consultative meetings with government officials, private sector representatives and representatives of professional bodies; participated in the National Consultative Meeting on Accountability Principles and the Corporate Regulatory Framework. Draft and final reports were submitted prior to the workshop. A further report incorporating working group and forum discussions was submitted following the workshop.
Period:
01/Apr/1999-01/May/1999
Project Name:
Economic Reform Survey: Samoa
Client:
Australian National University
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Survey
Project Description:
Project involved compilation of an updated report on the status of the Samoan economy to be published in the May 1999 edition of the Pacific Economic Bulletin.
Services Provided:
The survey looked in particular at the progress that had been made in Samoa through the reform process over the prior five years, compared to the first part of the decade.
Period:
01/Oct/1998-01/Jan/1999
Project Name:
Policies & Programmes in Support of Business Development
Client:
Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat
Location:
Fiji, Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Policy Formulation
Project Description:
Prepared reports regarding the policies and programmes in Fiji and Samoa that supported business development. The reports formed the basis for preparation of briefing papers for the 1999 Regional Finance and Economic Ministers Meeting.
Services Provided:
Held consultations with government departments and officials as well as business community in Fiji and Samoa and prepared country reports to highlight existing policies and programmes that supported business development.
Period:
01/Jan/1998-20/Jun/1998
Project Name:
Tumua & Pule Petition to Government on VAGST: Review
Client:
Government of Samoa
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Review
Project Description:
Reviewed the nature and scope of the process adopted by the Tumua and Pule petition against the introduction of the Value Added on Goods and Services Tax (VAGST).
Services Provided:
Determined the validity of the documentation used in the petition of Tumua ma Pule and recommended the measures that the government needed to consider for responding to the petition.
Period:
01/Apr/1997-01/Sep/1997
Project Name:
Pacific Knowledge Assessment & IT Survey
Client:
World Bank
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Survey
Project Description:
The findings of the study in Western Samoa were to feed into the development of a platform for information-based industries in Fiji, Tonga and Western Samoa. At an internet conference organised in August 1997 to review the findings of the country surveys, a number of potential business opportunities were identified as future case studies.
Services Provided:
Provided background economic and financial information on IT development in Western Samoa; carried out consultations to identify information flows and decision-making nodes in both the public sector and the business community.
Period:
01/Oct/1996-01/Dec/1996
Project Name:
Industrial Development in Western Samoa: Review
Client:
UNIDO
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Review
Project Description:
The project provided background material for a United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) mission which visited Apia in December 1996 to consult and advise the Western Samoan Government on a strategy for developing the industrial sector. A detailed analysis of the industrial sector also covered possible opportunities to create employment through the introduction of information technology into manufacturing and service activities.
Services Provided:
Reviewed past economic reports on the industrial sector and carried out consultations with key personnel and institutions in the industrial sector.
Period:
01/May/1996-01/Jul/1996
Project Name:
National Review of Private Sector Development Policies & Strategies: Samoa
Client:
Government of Samoa
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Review
Project Description:
The purpose of the study was to provide a framework within which European Union financial assistance could be utilised in the private sector under the ACP-EU Lome IV Convention.
Services Provided:
Reviewed past studies on the role of the private sector to identify recommended strategies for private sector development. The findings were then discussed with the main stakeholders to determine strategies and possible programme areas for developing the private sector.
Period:
01/Aug/1994-01/Jun/1995
Project Name:
Programme of Action for LDCs for the 1990s: Mid-term Review
Client:
UNESCAP
Location:
Kiribati, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Thailand, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Review
Project Description:
The project was to review the economic performance of the Pacific Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and overseas development assistance provided under the guidelines of the 1990s Programme of Action for LDCs. The economic report produced by the review formed the basis of discussions in the Global Review of the Programme of Action Conference in late 1995.
Services Provided:
Coordinated the preparation of economic reviews of Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Western Samoa which involved researchers visiting those countries to consult with government officials and collect data. Both researchers assisted with the preparation and finalisation of the economic report. They also assisted with the editing of the economic report and attended the April 1995 ESCAP meetings in Thailand to present the economic report as part of the Asia-Pacific Programme of Action review.
Period:
01/Jul/1994-01/Sep/1994
Project Name:
Economy of Western Samoa: Review
Client:
AusAID
Location:
Australia, Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Review
Project Description:
The economic report produced by the project formed the basis for the 1995 high level consultations between Western Samoa and AusAID to set the Australian forward aid programme. The economic report was drafted to facilitate public debate on the economic and financial management policies necessary to support growth in the economy.
Services Provided:
Analysed trends and prepared sections of the report on public sector management, private sector development, human resource development and sustainable development; held consultations with government officials in Western Samoa; visited AusAID in Canberra, Australia to review the analysis of the economy and the draft report.
Period:
01/Dec/1993-01/May/1994
Project Name:
Small Business Enterprise Centre Development
Client:
NZ MFAT
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Business Development
Project Description:
The project, initiated by the New Zealand Government, supported the Western Samoa Trade and Commerce Department in promoting private sector development. The Small Business Enterprise Centre focused on training small business promoters and facilitating access to finance through a loan guarantee scheme, serving as a coordinated focal point for small enterprises.
Services Provided:
Provided comprehensive advice on establishing a charitable trust to support the Small Business Enterprise Centre, including legal, administrative, and governance considerations. Designed an effective management structure for the Centre, defining roles, responsibilities, and reporting lines to ensure efficient operations. Advised on board composition and stakeholder engagement to facilitate coordination of activities and services for small businesses. Recommended processes for oversight, accountability, and decision-making, ensuring alignment with the Centre’s objectives. Supported planning for operational procedures, resource allocation, and coordination with government agencies and financial institutions, enabling the Centre to effectively train small business promoters and facilitate access to finance.
Period:
01/Sep/1992-01/Nov/1992
Project Name:
Cooperative Arrangements between PI LDCs & Asia-Pacific Developing Countries
Client:
UNESCAP
Location:
Kiribati, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Type of Assignment:
Policy Advisory
Project Description:
The report focused on how regional cooperation could be used by Pacific Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to support their development. The report was part of an Asia-Pacific overall report.
Services Provided:
Reviewed past economic and trade reports of Pacific LDCs and recommended steps to improve cooperative economic and trade arrangements.
Period:
01/Sep/1991-01/Aug/1991
Project Name:
Savings in Western Samoa: Review
Client:
UNESCAP
Location:
Samoa
Type of Assignment:
Review
Project Description:
The paper was part of an overall review of savings in Pacific Least Developed Countries (LDCs). Negative savings in Western Samoa needed to be addressed to improve economic performance. The project highlighted high dependence on overseas savings and limited opportunities in small island economies to mobilise national saving behaviour.
Services Provided:
Reviewed the structure of the financial system and consulted previous economic reports on Western Samoa; made a series of recommendations to improve government and private sector savings.
Period:
01/Jul/1991-01/Aug/1991
Project Name:
Joint Evaluation Mission: Bangladesh
Client:
UNDP
Location:
Bangladesh
Type of Assignment:
Evaluation
Project Description:
The evaluation assessed the technical assistance provided by ADB and UNDP to Bangladesh Shilpa Bank (BSB), Bangladesh Shilpa Rin Sangstha (BSRS) to upgrade the operational systems for loan restructuring and rehabilitation and to train local personnel in these development finance institutions. The purpose of the evaluation was to determine whether the freeze on assistance to BSB and BSRS could be lifted.
Services Provided:
Reviewed past project documentation on financial sector reforms and assistance to the BSB and BSRS by the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and UNDP; coordinated the field-work which involved consultations with private financial institutions, the Bangladesh Bank, the Ministry of Finance and aid donors in Dhaka; prepared the evaluation report in UNDP format.
KVAConsult Ltd 