Anarosa Latulipe¹, Taema Imo^2,

In Samoa, food represents culture, family, land, and the ocean; it is central to life. The informal system that sustains the livelihoods of 80% of the rural population remains the backbone of Samoa’s economy. The COVID-19 pandemic has had significant impacts on Samoa, affecting both public health and the economy. This study focused on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on food security in rural communities across five surveyed districts. The results revealed that only a small percentage of rural communities were able to maintain food security during the pandemic, with just 46% having access to healthy and nutritious food. The remaining 54% faced food insecurity due to several factors, including low income, food shortages caused by panic buying, disruptions in trade, and loss of employment and business opportunities. Overall, this study highlights the challenges that rural communities have faced during the pandemic and emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts among policymakers, community leaders, and agricultural experts to promote sustainable agricultural practices and ensure food security for all.

Accessibility, availability, Utilisation, stability, Agriculture, income, community, Samoa