Proposals for the development of land policies in Samoa: the continuing importance of customary practice

Abstract

The research aimed to study the development of land policies in [Western] Samoa. From my experiences of land disputes, there was a need for such a study to look at the way the Samoan government is establishing policies that are in harmony with the customs and culture of its society. A literature search was carried out using a limited number of written materials available in the area of land policies. At the same time, ten interviews were conducted with government and non-government officials who were associated with the recent establishment of a Land Use Policy. As part of the fieldwork, I attended, as a participant observer, the policy group meetings and a workshop co-hosted by the NEMS Task Team and the SPREP organisation. The meetings involved the participation of inter-departmental representatives to discuss ideas about the establishment of the latest policies on land use. A case study was included to illustrate how development on customary land use can come into conflict between government and the local people. The research findings indicate that the main issue of customary tenure is a difficult area to address in the establishment of land policies. There are differences between customary and non-customary land use and practices amongst the landowners. It shows that government still needs to work through at the village/district level in order to provide a clear focus of purpose in its policies. People need to be encouraged to be receptive towards appropriate and effective development. There is also a need to recognise the importance of how decisions are made within local as well as institutional levels of Samoan society.