On Friday 30th June 2023 the Acting High Commissioner, Misa Robert Niko Aiono and staff of the Samoa High Commission was invited by the Siufofoga o le Laumua Trust at the launch of the Gagana Samoa app which was held at the Te Rauparaha Arena in Porirua. The Gagana Samoa app is an initiative introduced by the Siufofoga Laumua Trust with the support from the Ministry of Education in preserving the Samoan language in Aotearoa New Zealand by embracing new technology. The launch event was opened by the Chair of the Siufofoga o le Laumua Trust, Tunumafono Auimatagi Ken Ah Kuoi followed by blessing of opening prayer by Rev. Elder Risatisone Ete, Toea‘ina Mālōlō Penisione. After the prayer, keynote addresses were delivered by the Porirua Mayor, Her Worship the Mayor Anita Baker; former Minister of the Ministry of Pacific People, Hon. Aupito Toeolesulusulu Tofae Su’a William Sio; Minister of Pacific People, Hon. Barbara Edmonds; and Acting High Commissioner, Mr. Robert Niko Aiono. Mr. Aiono in his remarks conveyed the importance of the Samoan language and identity to the future of the Samoan people in New Zealand and acknowledged the efforts of the Siufofoga o le Laumua Trust for their initiative and leadership in creating the app. The launch concluded with App demonstration with the help and assistance of Samoa Capital Radio staff

Preserving the Samoan language in Aotearoa New Zealand is important to the Government of New Zealand as outlined in the All-of-Govt Pacific Languages Strategy and the Pacific Education Plan 2020-2030.

The Gagana Samoa app was created by software engineers of Kiwa Digital with collaboration with Samoa Capital Radio. The Acting High Commissioner was accompanied by his spouse, Mrs. Uasami Aiono and staff of the Samoa High Commission.

The Gagana Samoa app is now available on Google Play (Android) and App Store (Apple):
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details...
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/nz/app/gagana-s%C4%81moa/id6450454535