PUBLIC AWARENESS ON THE DETECTION OF AMERICAN FOULBROOD (AFB) IN SAMOA

[PRESS RELEASE, 24 December 2025] – The Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries (MAF) wishes to inform the public of the recent detection of American Foulbrood (AFB) in Samoa. The detection was reported in late November 2025 by the Samoa Apiculture Association (SAO), led by its President Papalii Richard Wetzell. The affected locations include Siusega and nearby villages, where AFB has been confirmed in several bee hives.

About American Foulbrood (AFB):

American Foulbrood is a highly contagious bacterial disease that affects honeybee colonies. It is caused by the bacterium Paenibacillus larvae, which produces extremely resilient spores capable of surviving in the environment for more than 20 years.

While AFB was first detected in Samoa in 2016, periodic emergence can occur due to a long-term persistence of these spores.

Eradication and Control Measures:

MAF, in collaboration with SAO, is implementing necessary eradication and containment measures to control and eliminate the disease. These measures include:

• Full spraying and disinfection of affected apiaries.

• Collection and on-site destruction of all infested hives through controlled burning.

• Surveillance and monitoring of surrounding areas to prevent further spread.

Public Advisory:

Members of the public, particularly families residing in the affected areas identified by SAO, are kindly requested to fully cooperate with MAF and SAO officers undertaking surveillance and eradication activities.

A formal notification has been issued through the Ministry of Women, Community & Social Development (MWCSD) via village Mayors to ensure that households permit access to their properties for surveillance and eradication activities.

At this stage, there is no cause for alarm. MAF and SAO are actively managing the situation, and are currently engaging only with households where AFB has been confirmed.

The community is encouraged to remain vigilant, follow guidelines provided by authorities, and support ongoing efforts to protect our honeybee industry.

For further information, please contact:

Matai’a Ricky Faatonu, email: ricky.faatonu@maf.gov.ws or phone: 7735353, Seumaloisalafai Afele Faiilagi, afele.faiilagi@maf.gov.ws or phone: 7591723

END.

Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries – Samoa