Samoans impacted by the sinking of the New Zealand navy ship, HMNZS Manawanui, are set to receive individual compensation as part of a $3.6 million payout from the New Zealand government. This financial assistance is aimed not only at affected villagers but also at local businesses that suffered losses due to the incident.
The ship sank in October 2024, leading to contamination in the Safata region, which significantly affected local livelihoods. Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Polataivao Fosi Schmidt announced the Cabinet sub-committee’s approval for the compensation method, emphasizing the importance of fairness in distributing the funds.
Before finalizing the decision, Schmidt directed the committee to consult with the impacted villages, ensuring that the distribution accurately reflects the repercussions on both individuals and businesses. Villages in the Siumu, Safata 1, and Safata 2 districts experienced the most severe consequences, including damage to food sources and a decline in income from fisheries and marine resources. Additionally, local surfing and marine tourism businesses were significantly impacted.
It has been noted that some residents voiced a desire to manage the distribution of the funds directly; however, Schmidt clarified that the government would oversee this process to ensure equitable and effective allocation of resources.
This proactive approach by the New Zealand government highlights the commitment to supporting affected Samoan communities and mitigating the long-term impacts of the environmental disaster.
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