Nabilah S
Samoa’s immigration authorities have taken a significant step towards bolstering border security with the acquisition of new technological equipment, courtesy of the Government of Japan and the International Organization of Migration (IOM).
The equipment included three sets of database servers and Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) and will enhance border management capabilities through the collecting, processing, storing, and analyzing of traveler information in real time.
This upgrade allows immigration officials to effectively monitor individuals entering and exiting Samoa, thereby strengthening law enforcement operations and improving border control.
The initiative is part of a larger regional project by the IOM aimed at supporting Pacific nations in their socio-economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. With an emphasis on the safe resumption of border management operations, this investment is crucial as integrated and seamless border control systems become increasingly necessary.
Agafili Tomaimano Shem Leo, Chief Executive Officer of MPMC, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Government of Japan for their unwavering support and partnership.
He highlighted that the newly installed servers will enable the Government of Samoa to effectively handle the increasing volumes of data related to immigration, ensuring adequate storage capacity for future requirements.
The upgraded system not only strengthens border control but also establishes a robust statistical framework to support the development of migration-related policies. These advancements position Samoa to enhance protections for migrants while promoting evidence-based decision-making in immigration management.
This collaboration underscores the critical role of international partnerships in bolstering national security and advancing immigration management in Samoa.
