District Development Programme (DDP) Clarification: Samoa’s Government says recent media speculation about the District Development Programme facing funding problems is wrong, insisting DDP funding is available and disbursed under approved agreements, while also stressing district councils are separate legal entities. District Councils, Overdrafts, and Politics: The same dispute is tied to claims the Government sought help from Samoa’s four commercial banks for $300,000 overdraft facilities for councils—sparking questions from MPs about how public funds are being used. Hospital Medicine Shortage: Samoa’s main hospital is rationing key medicines amid low supply, with an urgent shipment from Fiji covering only about half of needs and a reported SAT$12 million backlog in unpaid supplier bills. New Development Plan Launched: PM Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Fosi Schmidt launched the Pathway for the Development of Samoa (FY2026/27–FY2030/31), setting a five-year roadmap focused on resilience, growth, social outcomes, and good governance, with a public roadshow planned. Climate and Fisheries Response: Pacific nations, including Samoa, are strengthening climate readiness for tuna shifts beyond national waters through a Green Climate Fund-backed warning system. Cybercrime Law Push: Fiji is hosting Pacific legal officers to finalise a regional handbook to strengthen cybercrime laws and coordination, with Samoa among participants. Moana Pasifika Survival Talk: New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters says Moana Pasifika may still have a pathway to survive as potential backers show interest. Independence Week Sports: Marist Sevens finals are set after Tepatasi and Yaro Chiefs win their semis, and a 21km Independence Day relay drew 12 teams.