26/07/2026
BBC Media Action Strengthens Samoa Media Through Training and Equipment Support
July 22, 2026 Apia, Samoa: BBC Media Action is continuing its commitment to strengthening independent, public interest journalism in Samoa through a programme of media capacity building that combines professional development with practical newsroom support.
As part of this ongoing commitment, professional television cameras and tripods have been donated to local broadcasters Mermada Pacific and TV1 Samoa, providing journalists with the tools needed to produce high-quality, independent reporting that better serves communities across Samoa.
The equipment was officially presented by the British High Commissioner to Samoa, His Excellency Andrew Nethercott, during a handover ceremony attended by representatives from Mermada Pacific, TV1 and BBC Media Action Samoa.
The initiative complements BBC Media Action's broader programme of work in Samoa, which has included training in mobile journalism, video production, storytelling, ethical reporting and digital journalism. Together, these efforts are designed to strengthen the skills, resilience and sustainability of local media organisations so they can continue providing trusted information to the public.
British High Commissioner to Samoa, His Excellency Andrew Nethercott, said the United Kingdom is proud to support Samoa's growing media sector through its partnership with BBC Media Action.
"The UK is incredibly proud to support Samoa's vibrant media ecosystem through this partnership with BBC Media Action. By providing top-end gear and first-class training, BBC Media Action is helping local media outlets ensure their viewers can access quality independent broadcast journalism."
BBC Media Action Samoa Project Coordinator, Liz Ah Hi, said supporting journalists with both practical skills and professional equipment enables newsrooms to better fulfil their role in serving the public.
"BBC Media Action's mission is to strengthen independent media that people can trust. Strong journalism is built on both capable journalists and the resources they need to tell important stories. While training equips media professionals with the knowledge and confidence to produce ethical, accurate and engaging journalism, access to reliable equipment ensures those skills can be put into practice every day."
Mermada Pacific Director, Lepailetai Tosimaea Tupua, welcomed the support, saying the equipment would strengthen the organisation's ability to deliver quality journalism from communities throughout Samoa.
"This generous donation comes at an important time for our newsroom. Reliable equipment allows our team to work more effectively in the field and deliver stories that reflect the experiences and priorities of our people. We sincerely thank BBC Media Action and the UK Government for investing in the future of local journalism."
TV1 Chief Executive Officer, Taulogomai Roebeck, said the contribution reinforces the importance of investing in both people and technology to strengthen Samoa's media sector.
"High quality journalism depends not only on skilled reporters but also on having the right tools. These new cameras and tripods will enhance our production capability and help us continue providing timely, accurate and engaging news to audiences across Samoa. We greatly appreciate this partnership and the confidence placed in TV1."
BBC Media Action works with media organisations worldwide to strengthen trusted journalism, improve access to accurate and impartial information, and support media that serves the public interest. In Samoa, its work is delivered in partnership with local media organisations to strengthen professional journalism, promote ethical reporting and build a resilient media sector capable of meeting the evolving information needs of the public.
ENDS
BBC Media Action