SNPF Leadership: Cabinet has appointed finance professional Lealali Faletoese Asaua as the new CEO of the Samoa National Provident Fund for a three-year term, taking over from Lemalu Selesitina Meni-Reti. Budget Watch: The Central Bank warns delays in Samoa’s planned $1.5 billion budget could slow the economic recovery, with growth estimates dropping if spending and projects lag. Aviation Upgrade: Samoa Airways’ refurbished Twin Otter has returned from a major structural overhaul in Canada, with the refurbishment cost put at about SAT$22 million and aimed at extending the aircraft’s service life. Seasonal Work Ties: Prime Minister Schmidt is in New Zealand meeting Samoan workers under the RSE scheme and employers, focusing on wellbeing and effective implementation. Commonwealth Games Build-up: Samoa’s top athletes were honoured ahead of Team Samoa’s Glasgow 2026 departure, with a small but focused squad across athletics, swimming, weightlifting, boxing and judo. Environment & Waste: Communities are pushing back after Coca-Cola switched Samoa from refillable glass to single-use plastic bottles, saying it worsens pollution where recycling options are limited. Health of ‘Ava: SROS says Samoan ‘ava plants are being targeted by a destructive cucumber mosaic virus, with samples collected across Upolu and Savai’i for study. Food Prices: Farmers link rising vegetable prices to wet weather, higher production costs, and reduced harvests. Court Update: The court has reserved its decision on a legal challenge to the appointment of District Development Chairpersons.