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Vanuatu has been struck by a powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake, centred approximately 30 kilometres west of the capital, Port Vila. The tremor, occurring at a depth of 57 kilometres, has caused significant devastation, with at least 14 confirmed fatalities and over 200 injuries. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with a focus on collapsed structures where individuals are believed to be trapped. The earthquake has caused widespread structural damage in Port Vila, including to a building housing multiple embassies, where the ground floor gave way under the weight of the upper stories. Bridges have also collapsed, and landslides have further complicated recovery operations. In the aftermath of the disaster, acting Prime Minister Charlot Salwai declared a state of emergency and imposed a curfew in heavily affected areas. International assistance has been requested, with Australia already deploying medical teams and search and rescue personnel. Critical infrastructure has been heavily disrupted, including power, water supplies, and communications. Port Vila’s international airport has been temporarily closed to commercial flights to prioritise emergency and medical services. Relief teams are working tirelessly to restore essential services. The United Nations estimates that approximately one-third of Vanuatu’s population, around 116,000 people, have been directly impacted. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant as aftershocks continue to rumble through the region. Rescue operations and damage assessments are ongoing, with the death toll expected to rise.

Nuku’alofa, Tonga (December 9, 2024) – Tongan Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni has stepped down from his role, preempting a parliamentary vote of no confidence that was scheduled for today. His decision marks a pivotal moment in Tonga's political landscape as the nation braces for leadership uncertainty. The resignation, confirmed by local media outlets, was made effective immediately. Sovaleni’s office has yet to issue an official statement, but he is expected to address the nation later in the day during a press conference. Meanwhile, the parliamentary session, which was set to debate the no-confidence motion, did not proceed as planned. Why Sovaleni Resigned Sovaleni’s departure follows a year of political challenges. Earlier in 2024, King Tupou VI publicly withdrew confidence in his capacity as Minister of His Majesty’s Armed Forces. This led to Sovaleni stepping down from that ministerial position in March, creating political ripples that have since escalated into broader issues of governance. While the reasons for the parliamentary motion of no confidence have not been officially disclosed, analysts suggest they stem from Sovaleni’s perceived inability to maintain robust parliamentary support and address growing national concerns. What Happens Next? Tonga’s constitution outlines a clear process for filling the vacancy left by Sovaleni’s resignation: Appointment of an Interim Leader : Deputy Prime Minister or another high-ranking official may temporarily take on leadership duties until a new Prime Minister is selected. Parliamentary Consultation : Members of Parliament (MPs) will engage in consultations to nominate and elect a new Prime Minister. This process may involve intense negotiation among MPs to secure majority support. Royal Endorsement : The elected Prime Minister must receive formal endorsement from King Tupou VI before officially assuming office. The timeline for these steps remains uncertain, but a swift resolution is critical to ensure continuity in governance. Challenges for the Next Leader The incoming Prime Minister will face significant challenges, including: Strengthening Political Stability : Resolving the divisions within Tonga’s political framework will be essential to restoring public and governmental trust. Economic Recovery : Tonga continues to recover from global economic disruptions and must prioritise sustainable growth. Disaster Resilience : The nation is highly vulnerable to natural disasters, demanding leadership that can navigate climate challenges effectively. Sovaleni’s resignation, while a dramatic shift, provides an opportunity for Tonga to recalibrate its political direction. As the nation awaits the next steps, there is hope that the transition will usher in a period of renewed focus and collaboration. For updates on the developments, the Prime Minister’s press conference later today will likely shed light on his perspective and Tonga’s immediate future.

Rising Sea Levels Drive Coastal Families Inland As climate change accelerates, rising sea levels and increasingly unpredictable high tides are forcing coastal families worldwide to seek refuge inland. In Samoa, this trend is particularly visible in the Aiga-I-Le-Tai District, where families are leaving low-lying coastal areas to ensure the safety of their loved ones. According to the 2021 census, this district, home to 5,880 people, represents 3% of Samoa's population. Aiga-I-Le-Tai is part of the 70% of Samoans residing in coastal regions now vulnerable to climate impacts. The NASA Sea Level Team reports that global sea levels have risen 31 cm over the past three decades and may rise another 82 cm by 2100 under a 3.0°C warming scenario. The stark realities of these projections are evident in abandoned homes and communities relocating inland for safety. The Role of Infrastructure in Supporting Displaced Communities The shift inland has created a pressing need for improved infrastructure to connect displaced families with essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment. Leiataua Peti Taligapi’i, Executive Officer for the Aiga-I-Le-Tai District Council, underscores the importance of roads in enabling safe, sustainable living for these communities. Through Samoa’s District Development Program (DDP), inland roads have become a lifeline for these families. The initiative, which allocates $1 million annually to each district, has funded the construction of five inland roads in Aiga-I-Le-Tai, with an additional eight planned. These roads allow better access to services and improve the quality of life for hundreds of families. Community Benefits and Testimonials For residents like Filisika Manuia, improved road conditions mean safer and faster transportation. “We had to repair our car so many times due to bad roads,” she explained. Thanks to the new infrastructure, families like hers now have reliable access to healthcare and other critical services. Similarly, Tulagalua Apineru, a mother of five, expressed gratitude for the new roads after waiting two decades for improvements. “It’s a relief for my elderly mother,” she shared, emphasising the importance of these developments for vulnerable family members. The roads have also spurred economic and social benefits. Families are renovating homes and accessing plantations more easily, creating a foundation for future growth. Overcoming Challenges Despite its successes, the road construction project faced challenges. Building costs exceeded $100,000 for some roads, with longer routes costing over $200,000. To address these expenses, the district council collaborated with the Land Transport Authority to select cost-effective contractors, ultimately partnering with Mr. Digger Civil Works and Construction. Safety concerns also emerged as improved roads led to increased vehicle speeds. To mitigate risks, the district council partnered with village councils to enforce speed limits and fines, ensuring road safety for all users. Sustainable Practices and Broader Development The district council’s approach goes beyond infrastructure. Investments in education, agriculture, fisheries, and health aim to provide long-term benefits to the community. Women’s committees have also received funding to empower local women and enhance community resilience. The Way Forward The Aiga-I-Le-Tai District Council aims to extend these development efforts beyond the initial five-year DDP period, calling for continued government support and international aid. “It is vital for the government to provide direct budget support,” emphasised Leiataua, highlighting the transformative impact of local infrastructure investments. For the families of Aiga-I-Le-Tai, the new roads are more than just pathways—they are symbols of hope and resilience. By securing safe living conditions and fostering community development, Samoa is building a safer, more sustainable future in the face of climate change.

South Africa's men’s team thrilled home fans with a 26-14 victory over Olympic champions France, claiming their first HSBC SVNS title in Cape Town in nine years. With Springboks captain Siya Kolisi cheering from the sidelines, the final saw a breathless first half tied at 14-14 before Shilton van Wyk’s brilliance in the second half secured the win. Co-captain Zain Davids praised the team’s determination, saying, “The guys showed a lot of heart out there – we played for each other.” This victory comes after a narrow semifinal win over Spain, while France edged past Fiji in their semifinal clash. In the women’s final, New Zealand overcame an early 12-0 deficit to defeat the USA 26-12, reclaiming their dominance after a disappointing finish in Dubai. Nia Tolliver’s early try gave the USA hope, but the Black Ferns Sevens, led by HSBC Player of the Final Jorja Miller, stormed back with precision to clinch victory. New Zealand women’s captain Sarah Hirini celebrated her team’s resilience, adding, “I’m absolutely stoked here. We’re going home with goodies for Christmas!” The USA’s semifinal win over Australia and New Zealand’s dominant performance against France set the stage for the thrilling showdown. Crowds of over 75,000 at Cape Town’s DHL Stadium enjoyed two days of intense rugby action and vibrant festivities, including a world-record Ampiano dance performance. A new competition format emphasising player welfare added excitement, ensuring every match contributed to the standings. After two rounds, New Zealand leads the women’s rankings, with Fiji atop the men’s standings, setting up an intriguing race heading into the next round in Perth this January.

The first step in Samoa’s determined quest to rejoin the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series has been successfully completed. The Manu Samoa 7s team, relegated from the core group last year, is striving to regain its spot at the top tier of international sevens rugby. The Oceania Rugby Sevens Championship in the Solomon Islands was a critical milestone for Samoa. To qualify for the World Rugby Challenger Series — the regional pathway to the HSBC World Series — the team needed to finish in the top two. They not only achieved this but went on to claim the championship title in a thrilling final against Fiji. Under the guidance of new head coach Matamua Upati Junior, Samoa displayed resilience and determination, defeating Fiji 17-12 in extra time. After building a commanding 12-0 lead, the Samoan side faced a fierce comeback from Fiji, who tied the score at 12-all by full-time. In the dramatic extra period, Samoa sealed the win with a decisive try in the corner, showcasing their hunger and precision. This victory is a significant accomplishment for Coach Matamua, who took the reins just weeks before the tournament. His experience with Tama Uli and as a rugby development officer in Samoa has already translated into a revitalised team, demonstrating focus and tactical strength. In the women’s competition, the Manusina Sevens also advanced to the Challenger Series, despite a 14-5 loss to Fiji in the final. With Fiji already a core team in the HSBC SVNS Series, Samoa secured their qualification spot. Meanwhile, Tonga also made its mark, finishing third in both the men’s and women’s divisions. The Tongan men’s team defeated Tuvalu 24-19 in extra time, while their women’s side overwhelmed the Solomon Islands 41-5. For Samoa, this success is more than just a title — it’s a step forward in reclaiming their place among rugby’s elite. With their Challenger Series qualification now confirmed, the Manu Samoa 7s team is one step closer to re-entering the HSBC World Series and restoring their status as a core nation.

New Zealand is grappling with a series of financial missteps and economic challenges that have led to significant job losses and a surge in business closures across various sectors. Health New Zealand's Accounting Errors and Job Cuts Health New Zealand (HNZ) recently acknowledged accounting errors that overstated its financial deficit. These inaccuracies were used to justify extensive staff reductions and service cuts. The Auditor-General intervened to correct these errors, leading to the departure of HNZ's Chief Financial Officer. The Public Service Association reported that HNZ plans to eliminate an additional 1,478 positions, including roles critical to public health services. Economic Downturn and Business Closures The broader economic landscape mirrors these challenges. Data from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment indicates a 40% increase in company liquidations during the first eight months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Industries such as construction, retail, and hospitality have been particularly affected due to rising operational costs and declining consumer spending. Small businesses are experiencing unprecedented stress, with closures outpacing new startups for the first time in nearly a decade. In the year ending February 2024, 64,809 firms closed, while only 64,488 new firms were established, resulting in a net decline of 321 businesses. Future Outlook The current economic pressures suggest that more businesses may face similar fates in the near future. Continuous economic strain is causing significant stress and burnout among small business owners, with confidence continuing to decline. In summary, New Zealand's economic challenges, compounded by financial mismanagement in key sectors, have led to widespread job losses and business closures. Without effective intervention and support, these trends are likely to persist, affecting the livelihoods of many New Zealanders.

In a year of economic uncertainty and mounting pressures, Pacific business owners in New Zealand are taking matters into their own hands. At the Pacific Business Round Table, held at The Pacific Business Hub, these entrepreneurs united to address the challenges head-on and craft solutions from their own lived experiences. Themed "Real Talanoa, Real Solutions," the event highlighted a fundamental truth: no one understands the challenges of a business better than those who run it. From managing cash flow pressures to dealing with market volatility, Pacific business owners face the realities of keeping their operations afloat every day. When landlords, tax obligations, supplier payments, and staff wages all converge at once, it’s entrepreneurs who bear the burden of finding the funds and securing projects to keep their businesses running—ensuring their teams remain employed and the business cycle continues. “The solutions to our challenges must come from us,” said Fuimaono Martin Anae, Founder and CEO of Bluwave Galumoana Ltd. “We are the ones who bear the costs when things go wrong. This year, we’ve seen many businesses shut down, projects cut off, and a glaring lack of representation and opportunities. While we are grateful for the smaller projects we receive, they are no longer enough to sustain our businesses in today’s economic climate. Consequently, many are closing their doors and relocating to Australia, seeking better prospects. In 2023, New Zealand experienced a net migration loss of 27,000 people to Australia, a significant increase from the previous year's loss of 14,600." Facing Economic Realities: Pacific Businesses Unite for Action The numbers are sobering: more than 10,000 businesses were removed from New Zealand’s Companies Register in the second quarter of 2024. For Pacific businesses, the challenges are even more pronounced. Voices from the recent Pacific Business Round Table revealed a community disproportionately vulnerable—struggling with limited projects and funding, operating with fewer resources, and navigating the complexities of cultural and familial obligations. “While we share cultural ties across the Moana, the challenges we face and the opportunities we seek are as diverse as the islands we represent,” said Fuimaono. “The usual 'one-size-fits-all' solutions simply don’t work for us. We need strategies that reflect our realities and our strengths.” The event was not just about airing concerns but about taking tangible steps toward meaningful action. Salā Laura Keil, Founder and CEO of The Pacific Business Hub, emphasised the importance of collective solutions: “This wasn’t just about identifying problems—it was about taking action. This event shows the power of talanoa—open, honest dialogue—to foster genuine and meaningful collaboration that moves us forward together.” Among the key actions discussed was the need to establish a forum or group that could represent the values and voices of New Zealand Pacific businesses. Such a group would act as an advocate, amplifying their concerns and championing their successes, while ensuring that Pacific businesses are included in policy discussions and funding opportunities. Economic Pressures and Shared Experiences The round table provided a platform for participants to voice their lived experiences, underscoring the economic pressures affecting Pacific businesses. Felila Asiata-Feausi, General Manager of Oyonnx, spoke candidly about the slowdown in consumer spending, which has forced many businesses to lower their service prices just to stay competitive. She urged those present to leverage each other’s strengths and build a supportive ecosystem to navigate these tough times. The meeting also highlighted how cultural expectations can place additional strain on Pacific businesses. Losalio Milika Pusiaki and her partner Viliami, owners of Feʻunukoula - Academy of Tongan Arts, Dance & Culture online podcasts, shared how the misconception that owning a business equates to wealth often leads to expectations of discounts or financial contributions. These pressures, while rooted in cultural and familial ties, can undermine business sustainability. A Commitment to Collaboration and Representation The round table concluded with several actionable steps to support Pacific businesses, including: Establishing a forum or group to advocate for Pacific businesses, amplifying their voices in policy and funding discussions. Organising regular networking events to foster collaboration and resource sharing. Developing tailored workshops to address key challenges such as financial literacy, marketing, and operational efficiency. “There is talent and potential here,” said Fuimaono. “Together, we can create solutions that sustain Pacific businesses and contribute to New Zealand’s economic growth.”

Baku, Saturday, November 23, 2024, 6:00 PM AZT COP29, held in Baku, Azerbaijan, was thrown into disarray as the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) and the Least Developed Countries (LDC) group staged a dramatic walkout from climate finance negotiations. This bold move, driven by frustration over stalled discussions and exclusionary tactics, highlights the growing divide between vulnerable nations and developed countries in the fight against climate change. In a powerful address, The Honourable Minister Cedric Schuster, Chair of AOSIS, delivered a stirring statement explaining the decision to step away from the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) discussions. His words reflected the collective disappointment of nations already on the frontlines of the climate crisis. Breaking Point: A Walkout of Necessity The immediate trigger for the walkout was the proposal of a $300 billion climate finance package—a figure deemed grossly insufficient by AOSIS and LDC representatives. Minister Schuster described the discussions as not offering a progressive way forward, emphasising that AOSIS remains committed to the multilateral process but demands a negotiation process that is genuinely inclusive. “We want nothing more than to continue to engage, but the process must be inclusive. If this cannot be the case, it becomes very difficult for us to continue our involvement here at COP29,” Schuster declared. Voices Ignored, Promises Unmet For small island nations and LDCs, the stakes at COP29 are existential. Yet, these nations have found their concerns consistently sidelined. Schuster lamented the “deplorable lack of substance” in the negotiation packages, particularly regarding the special needs and circumstances of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and LDCs. “We need to see progress and follow up on the transition away from fossil fuels that we agreed last year,” he said. “Instead, we are being asked to forget all about that at this COP, as though we are not in a critical decade and as though the 1.5°C limit is not in peril.” Barbados’ representative echoed this sentiment, calling the draft proposal “an insult.” Meanwhile, Panama’s chief negotiator, Juan Carlos Monterrey Gómez, criticised developed nations for using attrition tactics to push through inadequate offers. “They wear us down at every turn,” he said, adding that these tactics only deepen the inequities between nations. The Sinking Reality of Vulnerable Nations Minister Schuster painted a vivid picture of the dire situation faced by small island nations, saying, “Understand this – I am not exaggerating when I say our islands are sinking!” He questioned how negotiators could return home with a poor deal. “How can you expect us to go back to the women, men, and children of our countries with a poor deal which will surely plunge them into further peril?” The walkout is not just about financial inadequacy; it is about survival. Small island states are among the least responsible for global emissions yet face the most severe consequences of climate change. Schuster underscored this injustice, urging developed nations to honour their commitments under the Paris Agreement. A Call for Honour and Unity In his closing remarks, Schuster called for all parties to act with honour and accountability, warning that this COP risks being remembered for showing “contempt for the world’s most vulnerable.” He urged nations to rise above division and commit to a deal that addresses the urgent needs of all. “Let us all come together and show the world we are serious about being saviours and commit to a deal that will redound to the benefit of us all.” Broader Implications The AOSIS walkout has cast a shadow over COP29, exposing the persistent inequities in global climate negotiations. The dissatisfaction with the process reflects broader geopolitical tensions, as developing nations continue to demand more ambitious financial commitments and action from wealthier countries. With the conference now teetering on the edge of collapse, options for moving forward include extending talks into next week or deferring major decisions to COP30 in Brazil. However, for AOSIS and LDCs, the message is clear: the world cannot wait. A Defining Moment for Climate Justice Minister Schuster’s impassioned plea and AOSIS’s bold walkout underscore the urgency of this moment. Their actions are a call to the global community to move beyond hollow promises and deliver tangible solutions. As the world watches, the question remains: will COP29 be remembered as a turning point or a missed opportunity in the fight for climate justice? The full AOSIS Statement, as read below, from AOSIS Press Release: https://www.aosis.org/aosis-statement-cop29-600pm-azt/ COP29, Baku Saturday 23rd November, 2024 6:00pm AZT ● Firstly, let me make it clear that the Alliance of Small Island States remains committed to this process and are here in the spirit of good faith in multilateralism to secure the best deal that will protect not just us, but the world from the worst impacts of climate change. ● We have presently removed ourselves from the stalled NCQG discussions, which were not offering a progressive way forward. ● We want nothing more than to continue to engage, but the process must be INCLUSIVE. ● If this cannot be the case, it becomes very difficult for us to continue our involvement here at COP29. ● Small island developing states and Least Developing Countries are among the very worst impacted by this climate crisis that we did not cause. ● Yet we have found ourselves continuously insulted by the lack of inclusion, our calls are being ignored. ● Across all packages, there is a deplorable lack of substance, especially as it relates to the special needs and circumstances of SIDS and LDCS. Our key asks on mitigation have also been ignored. We need to see progress and follow up on the transition away from fossil fuels that we agreed last year. We have been asked to forget all about that at this COP as though we are not in a critical decade and as though the 1.5C limit is not in peril. . ● We need to be shown the regard which our dire circumstances necessitate. ● We are calling on Parties to respect the Paris Agreement we all signed on to, which holds developed countries to provide adequate assistance to developing countries. ● What is happening here is highlighting what a very different boat our vulnerable countries are in, compared to the developed countries. After this COP29 ends, we cannot just sail off into the sunset. We are literally sinking. Understand this – I am not exaggerating when I say our islands are sinking! How can you expect us to go back to the women, men, and children of our countries with a poor deal which will surely plunge them into further peril? ● We are appealing to all countries to act with honour. Do not be remembered for contributing to a process which will go down as showing contempt for the world’s most vulnerable. Let us all come together and show the world we are serious about being saviours, and commit to a deal that will redound to the benefit of us all. – The Honourable Minister Cedric Schuster, AOSIS Chair

Baku, Azerbaijan – Against the backdrop of a world grappling with an escalating climate crisis, Patricia Scotland, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, delivered a rousing speech at COP29, imploring global leaders to embrace their role as custodians of a planet teetering on the brink. Her words resonated as a clarion call to action, urging nations to move beyond rhetoric and demonstrate true leadership in the fight for climate justice. “This is not just another summit,” she declared. “It is a moment of reckoning.” In her address, Scotland reminded the world of the Commonwealth's storied history in championing climate action, dating back to the Langkawi Declaration decades ago. Over the years, the organisation has mobilised hundreds of millions of dollars through its Climate Finance Access Hub, pioneered sustainability initiatives such as the Blue Charter for ocean conservation, and advanced regenerative solutions through the Living Lands Charter. Yet, as Scotland noted, these efforts—though impactful—are insufficient to meet the scale of the crisis. A Planet on the Brink Scotland painted a stark picture of the climate crisis, describing how the most vulnerable nations, many of which are part of the Commonwealth, are bearing the brunt of the damage. “Rising seas, relentless heat, devastating storms, mounting debt—this is their daily existence,” she said. These nations, which have contributed the least to global emissions, find themselves on the frontlines of a disaster not of their making. The Secretary-General’s message was clear: promises are no longer enough. “These nations look to us, not for promises, but for action, for justice, for change,” she urged, adding that failure to act decisively would betray the trust placed in global institutions. Harnessing Technology for Change Scotland also highlighted the transformative potential of technology in combating the climate crisis. From geospatial analysis to artificial intelligence, the Commonwealth is leveraging cutting-edge tools to enhance climate resilience and adaptation. These innovations, she argued, must become integral to the global response, unlocking solutions that address the crisis on every front. Finance and Justice: The Cornerstones of Action At the heart of Scotland’s address was a plea for the rapid mobilisation of climate finance. “Finance must move, not tomorrow, but now,” she emphasised, calling for partnerships that transcend borders, sectors, and divisions. For Scotland, justice must evolve from a talking point into a mission—one that prioritises the needs of the most vulnerable and ensures equity in the global response to climate change. A Moment of Reckoning Scotland’s speech was not without hope. She acknowledged that while the hour is late, faith and determination remain alive. Urging leaders to seize this moment with “urgency and audacity,” she called for unity and action that leave behind indifference and division. “We cannot wait for the next storm, the next famine, the next COP to spur us into action,” she warned. Instead, she called for bold leadership that ensures resilience, prosperity, and peace for future generations. The World is Watching Scotland’s address concluded with a stark reminder: “Our people are watching. It is our duty to show them what true leadership looks like.” Her words at COP29 served as both an indictment of inaction and a rallying cry for transformation. In this critical decade for climate action, Scotland has laid down the gauntlet, challenging the international community to rise to the occasion. The question remains: will world leaders heed her call? As the summit continues, Patricia Scotland’s speech stands as a powerful reminder of the stakes at hand—and the opportunity to turn the tide for a more equitable and sustainable future.

In the sprawling halls of COP29, a voice of clarity and urgency rose above the din of negotiations and debate—a voice representing the 39 nations that form the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS). His Honourable Toeolesulusulu Cedric Schuster, Minister of Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of Samoa, delivered a powerful message on behalf of those nations most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. It was not merely a plea for survival but a rallying cry for action rooted in equity and justice. Speaking with conviction, Minister Schuster reminded the global community that climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is a present reality. “Hotter summers, colder winters, and the possibility of losing entire countries,” he said, underscore the devastating impact of a crisis disproportionately borne by small island nations and low-lying coastal states. These nations, with fragile economies and limited resources, are on the front lines of climate change yet have the least capacity to address its impacts. A Demand for Climate Justice The Minister’s words cut to the heart of what has long been an imbalance in global climate action. While trillions are spent on fossil fuel infrastructure, he noted, humanity is “doing nothing to save itself” from the worsening effects of climate change. Immediate, ambitious action is needed, he urged, starting with the implementation of bold Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. Deep emission cuts must be our key priority, he emphasised, calling for a move away from “business as usual” and toward resilience. Minister Schuster also reminded attendees of the international communityʻs long- standing recognition of the special needs of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), from the 1992 Rio Declaration to the reaffirmation earlier this year in Antigua and Barbuda. Yet recognition without action, he argued, is hollow. Agreements must fully address the unique vulnerabilities of these nations to prevent the failure of the Paris Agreement itself. Climate Finance: A Beacon of Hope At the heart of the Minister’s speech was a resounding call for climate finance to become the cornerstone of COP29. He articulated AOSIS’s demand for a minimum allocation of $39 billion annually for SIDS and $220 billion for Least Developed Countries (LDCs). These funds, he said, must not only support mitigation and adaptation but also address the ever-growing need for financing loss and damage—a key ask that SIDS has long championed. “Transparency and accountability in reporting and monitoring climate financing,” he said, will be game-changers in building trust and achieving the 1.5°C goal. Highlighting the challenges SIDS face in accessing adaptation finance despite promises made at COP26, he called for ground-based solutions that prioritise those with the least capacity to implement necessary actions. The Ocean-Climate Nexus The Ministerʻs speech also touched on an often-overlooked aspect of climate action: the ocean-climate nexus. “Healthy oceans are fundamental to achieving our 1.5° goal,” he declared. For island nations like Samoa, the ocean is not only a source of sustenance and culture but a critical ally in global climate stability. He called for greater recognition of this interconnectedness in climate policy. Solidarity and Leadership Samoa’s Minister also expressed solidarity with Australia’s bid to host COP31 as the “Pacific COP.” This platform, he argued, would amplify the voices of small island nations, whose perspectives are often marginalised in global climate discussions. Such solidarity, he said, is essential for advancing global awareness and action on the unique challenges facing island communities. Reflecting on the historic UAE Consensus reached last year, the Minister called for operationalising the agreementʻs bold language, which includes transitioning away from fossil fuels, significantly increasing renewable energy use, and improving energy efficiency. “Despite our differences, we outlined bold actions,” he said. Now, the task is to transform those commitments into tangible solutions. Equity and Justice: A Shared Responsibility Minister Schuster closed his remarks with a pledge. "assured, small islands will work hard to be part of a solution that is based on equity and justice," he said. His words were a reminder that the climate crisis demands a collective response. It is not enough for nations to act independently or unevenly—progress depends on cooperation, trust, and a shared commitment to leaving no one behind. As the world watches COP29 unfold, the message from Samoa is clear: the time for talk has passed. The voices of small island nations must not only be heard but heeded. For if the most vulnerable are not protected, can any of us truly claim victory in the fight against climate change? The future of our planet depends on the actions taken here and now.

Baku, Azerbaijan – In a poignant address to the plenary at COP29, Hon. Toeolesulusulu Cedric Schuster, speaking on behalf of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), laid bare the frustrations and hopes of some of the world’s most vulnerable nations. Their statement was both a call to action and a reminder of the stakes at hand as the clock ticks on climate ambition. Time Is Not on Our Side The tone of Samoa’s speech reflected growing unease among small island nations about the pace of negotiations at COP29. As the conference entered its critical second week, Samoa highlighted a stark reality: many agenda items have been passed to the CMA (Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement) without consensus. This bottleneck, AOSIS warned, could jeopardize progress on climate finance, mitigation, and adaptation — all vital pillars of the Paris Agreement. Samoa’s representative urged the COP29 President to provide strong leadership to accelerate discussions and break the gridlock. “We need to speed up our work,” they implored, stressing the importance of leadership in yielding critical outcomes. Finance at the Forefront: SIDS and LDCs Demand Fairness Finance emerged as a linchpin of Samoa’s address. AOSIS’s top priority is to see their demands for the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG) reflected in the final outcomes. Specifically, they called for minimum allocation floors of: - $39 billion annually for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). - $220 billion annually for Least Developed Countries (LDCs). These figures, part of a joint submission by SIDS and LDCs, are not negotiable, Samoa stressed. “Any outcome that does not include these aspects will not be acceptable,” they warned, signaling that COP29 cannot afford to neglect the voices of the most climate-vulnerable. A Crisis in Mitigation Mitigation was another flashpoint in Samoa’s speech. With the world falling behind on commitments to limit global warming to 1.5°C, Samoa expressed dismay over stalled discussions on mitigation outcomes. Building on agreements from COP28 in the UAE, AOSIS demanded substantive progress, warning that backsliding or delays could spell disaster for small island nations. Appreciation Coupled with Urgency While Samoa acknowledged the ministerial engagement framework laid out by the COP29 President, including efforts to avoid scheduling overlaps, they emphasized that the stakes were too high for logistical challenges to undermine progress. They also welcomed the focus on key issues like the NCQG and the Global Stocktake (GST), which evaluates global progress on the Paris Agreement’s goals. AOSIS pledged to play a constructive role but underscored that equity and ambition must drive the negotiations. “The small island delegations are concerned about the pace of negotiations,” Samoa reiterated, urging all parties to cooperate in good faith. The Broader COP29 Landscape Samoa’s speech is emblematic of the tension that has defined COP29. As host nation Azerbaijan facilitates high-stakes discussions, major divides remain on finance, loss and damage, and carbon market mechanisms. Developed countries have been accused of dragging their feet on financial commitments, while vulnerable nations demand accountability and equity. Amid this backdrop, Samoa’s intervention underscores the critical role of vulnerable nations in shaping the COP29 narrative. For them, this is not merely a diplomatic exercise—it is a fight for survival. What’s at Stake With only days left to finalise agreements, COP29 faces a defining moment. Can it deliver the high-ambition balanced package that AOSIS and others demand? Or will it fall short, further delaying action at a time when every fraction of a degree matters? For Samoa and the small island nations they represent, the stakes could not be higher. “We are not prepared to leave this COP without a substantive outcome,” Samoa declared. Their words are a rallying cry for justice, equity, and the urgent action needed to secure a liveable future. As the halls of COP29 buzz with negotiations, Samoa’s impassioned speech serves as a stark reminder: for small island nations, the consequences of inaction are existential. The world is watching—and so is history.

9th November 2024- Asafo Aumua made a strong impact in the All Blacks' 28-24 victory over Ireland at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium. Filling in for Codie Taylor, who was sidelined due to a concussion, Aumua seized his opportunity with a dynamic performance, showcasing powerful ball-carrying, precise set-piece work, and rock-solid defence. His ability to consistently break tackles and advance play created momentum for New Zealand, while his accuracy in lineouts kept the All Blacks' attack in rhythm. Beyond his offensive contributions, Aumua played a critical role in defence, delivering key tackles to thwart Ireland’s advances during a tense second half. As Ireland surged back with two late tries, narrowing New Zealand’s lead, Aumua’s defensive composure and try-saving efforts out wide helped the All Blacks withstand the late Irish rally. This performance not only underscored Aumua’s readiness for high-stakes international play but also demonstrated his potential as a key fixture in the All Blacks' forward pack. His ability to step up under pressure has cemented his place in the squad and reassured fans of the All Blacks' depth in talent as they continue their international campaign.