an assessment of existing information … · ausaid australian agency for international development...

Prepared in collaboration with the FIVIMS Secretariat

by Lafaele Enoka, National consultant, FAO

Food and Agriculture Organization

of the United NationsRome 2005

AN ASSESSMENT OFEXISTING INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND DATABASES

AN OVERVIEW REPORT Apia, Samoa, September 2002

FOR A NATIONAL FIVIMS:SAMOA

The views expressed in this document are those of the author(s)and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Food and AgricultureOrganization of the United Nations.

The designations employed and the presentation of material in thisinformation product do not imply the expression of any opinionwhatsoever on the part of the Food and Agriculture Organization ofthe United Nations concerning the legal or development status ofany country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerningthe delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.

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© FAO 2005

An assessment of existing information systems and databases for a national FIVIMS: Samoa

iii

About this report v

Acronyms vi

Summary of recommendations 1

Introduction 1FIVIMS objectives 1

Background 1Samoan FIVIMS objectives 2

FIVIMS methodology 2

Study methodology 2

Existing information systems and databases 2Priority areas for FIVIMS in Samoa 2

Department of Statistics 3

Ministry of Agriculture, Forests, Fisheries and Meteorology 4

Department of Lands, Survey and Environment 6

Health Department 7

Potential overall contribution of Samoan key institutions to FIVIMS 8

Other partner institutions for a national FIVIMS 8

Possible key indicators database system for Samoa 13

Contents


iv

Summary of conclusions 13Key institutions 13

Partner institution 13

Constraints and limitations 13

GIS mapping 15

KIDS framework 15

National FIVIMS focal point 15

Recommendations 16

References 17

Appendix I Organizations and institutions consulted 19

II Checklist for interviews 20

III Existing information systems/databases relevant to FIVIMS activities in Samoa 21

List of tables

Table 1 Available databases – DoS 3

Table 2 Available information systems/databases – MAFFM 5

Table 3 GIS database 7

Table 4 Available databases – Nutrition Centre 8

Table 5 Information systems/databases from partner institutions 9

Table 6 Relevant institutions – strengths, constraints and possible contributions

to a national FIVIMS in Samoa 13

Table 7 Possible indicators for a national FIVIMS in Samoa 14

List of figures

Figure 1 Possible KIDS for Samoa 15

Figure 2 Recommended components of a KIDS and possible contributors in Samoa 16


he aim of this report is to provide a summary assessment of the existing institutional

capacity in Samoa to undertake integrated FIVIMS-related work. The document was used as

a background for discussions at the national FIVIMS strategy workshop (30 September –

4 October, 2002) on a contextual framework for FIVIMS-type work in Samoa.

The opinions expressed in this report are those of the author alone and do not imply any

opinion whatsoever on the part of FAO.

T


v

About this report

AusAID Australian Agency for International Development

CBS Central Bank of Samoa

CDC Cabinet Development Committee

DLSE Department of Lands, Survey and Environment

DoS Department of Statistics

ED Education Department

EU European Union

FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

FIVIMS Food Insecurity and Vulnerability Information Mapping System

GIS Geographic Information Systems

GoS Government of Samoa

HD Health Department

HIES Household Income and Expenditure Survey

JICA Japan International Cooperation Agency

KIDS Key Indicators Database System

MAFFM Ministry of Agriculture, Forests, Fisheries and Meteorology

MFA Ministry of Foreign Affairs

NGOs Non Governmental Organizations

NZODA New Zealand Overseas Development Assistance

PPCD Policy, Planning and Communication Division

SDS Strategy for the Development of Samoa, 2002–2004

TSY Treasury Department

UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

UNDP United Nations Development Programme

WHO World Health Organization

WMO World Meteorological Organization


vi

Acronyms

UMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

The recommendations below are a summary of those

from this assessment study:

1 It is recommended that the formulation of a national

FIVIMS (Food Insecurity and Vulnerability Information

Mapping Systems) strategy consider priority areas

identified by the Government of Samoa.

2 It is recommended that FIVIMS’s first role is to seek

consensus amongst the four key government

institutions identified below concerning the selection

of an interim national focal point.

3 It is highly recommended that one of the four

institutions outlined below undertake this initial task in

getting the necessary political backing through the

formal channel of soliciting Cabinet endorsement.

4 It is recommended that the national strategy and

work plan take into consideration priority areas

identified by the FIVIMS consultancy – namely the

analysis and integration of statistical information into

GIS mapping when planning immediate FIVIMS

activities for Samoa.

5 It is recommended that capacity-building activities

are integrated into the work plan for the collection,

management, analyses, dissemination and utilization

of information.

NTRODUCTION

It is estimated that approximately 840 million people in

the world suffer from hunger and malnutrition (FAO,

2000: 1). According to the Director-General of FAO,

“most live in the developing countries and are constantly

up against the degradation of their natural resources and

their environment”.1 The FIVIMS Initiative is a result of

the 1996 World Food Summit when world leaders

pledged their commitment to fight world hunger and

poverty.

FIVIMS objectivesFIVIMS aims to support and promote national-level

activities that compile, analyse and disseminate valuable

information. This will help identify food-insecure and

vulnerable sections of the population and assist policy-

makers in developing and implementing policies that help

attain food security and reduce associated poverty. The

immediate objectives of FIVIMS (FAO, 2000: 14) are to:

• increase national and international attention to food-

security issues, so that they receive higher priority in

policy formulation;

• improve the reliability, quality, quantity and timeliness

of national and subnational food security-related data

and analysis;

• facilitate multisectoral analyses, through better

integration of complementary information

components;

• promote better use of information, through better

understanding of users’ needs and more effective

dissemination;

• improve users’ access to information, through

networking and sharing.

ACKGROUND

Samoa is one of the five small-island developing states

that piloted the FIVIMS Initiative2 under the European

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1 More Political Will and Resources – FAO. 2002, 5 September. TheSamoa Observer.

2 The other pilot small island developing states are Barbados, CapeVerde, Comoros and Fiji.

Union-funded project, GCP/INT/742/EC. A part of this

project was the development of a national FIVIMS

strategy for Samoa.

Samoan FIVIMS objectivesThe purpose of a Samoan FIVIMS is to contribute to the

reduction of food insecurity and vulnerability in Samoa in

four main ways:

1 gaining access to more comprehensive up-to-date

information that is easy to understand;

2 enhancing food security through better and more

informed policy formulation;

3 improving the design and targeting of interventions

directed at reducing food insecurity and vulnerability;

4 monitoring progress in achieving the FIVIMS goal by

providing accurate and timely information about the

nature and extent of food insecurity and vulnerability,

and the main causes and the changes that are

occurring over time (FAO, 2000).

FIVIMS methodologyThe development of a national FIVIMS takes into account

already existing information systems related to food

security. It does not seek to create new systems but

rather to support and consolidate what is available locally.

In addition, a national FIVIMS seeks to provide

better coordination between donor agencies,

international organizations and national technical

agencies. The establishment of these relationships could

lead to greater sustainability of local institutions. Apart

from better coordination, the ownership and operation

will be national, which it is hoped will facilitate

effectiveness in providing information designed to meet

the needs of national policy-makers. The aim is to

ensure better information is linked to better action

programmes.

The following study was undertaken to assess

current information systems and databases that could

assist in the development of Samoa’s FIVIMS. The

objectives were to:

• undertake an inventory check of existing information

systems and databases;

• identify key producers and users of information that

are relevant to FIVIMS activities;

• identify weaknesses and opportunities for priority

areas that need institutional capacity-building.

TUDY METHODOLOGY

A series of consultations was held with key relevant

government institutions (please see Appendix I).

Semi-structured interviews were conducted to ascertain

what type of information systems or databases existed

within each institution, and a checklist of topic areas

was used to guide the discussion (see Appendix II). This

included questions on the type of data collected, the

processing and management of information, analyses

undertaken and how information was disseminated.

In addition, secondary sources from previous

studies on FIVIMS in Samoa and government

documents provided benchmark information for the

study. These include two FIVIMS mission reports, GIS

data assessment for Samoa and other associated

documents.

XISTING INFORMATION SYSTEMSAND DATABASES

The Back to Office Report – Samoa and Fiji in 2001

(Bruno et al., 2001) consulted a wide range of

stakeholders – both users3 and providers4 of

information. A total of 28 information systems and/or

databases have so far been identified in Samoa.

Government institutions hold the majority of data

sources; the remaining are owned by non-government

organizations (NGOs), universities, UN agencies and

bilateral donors (see Appendixes I and II for details).

Priority areas for FIVIMS in SamoaThe Back to Office Report 2002 – Samoa and Fiji

(Riches, 2002: 4) identified two priority areas for FIVIMS

in Samoa. These were:

1 analysis and integration of statistical information;

2 GIS (Geographic Information Systems) mapping.

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3 Information users refer to policy-makers/advisers in government,government officials, civil society, donor community, researchers,training institutions.

4 Information providers refer to institutions/organizations/groups thatprovide information such as the Department of Statistics, HealthDepartment, Central Bank of Samoa, Ministry of Agriculture.

According to the report, Samoa already has good

baseline information in the form of the 1997 Household

income and expenditure survey (HIES), 1999 Census of

agriculture and the 2001 Census of population. All these

statistical datasets are relevant to FIVIMS and could be

incorporated into maps using GIS.

Based on these key priority areas, the most relevant

information systems and databases are located within

four key government institutions:

• Department of Statistics (DoS);

• Ministry of Agriculture, Forests, Fisheries and

Meteorology (MAFFM);

• Department of Lands, Survey and Environment

(DLSE);

• Health Department (HD).

Department of StatisticsThe Department of Statistics (DoS) is authorized by law

to collect statistical information. It is responsible for the

input and management of national census and survey

data information and has already updated both the

1989 agriculture and 1991 population census.

An update of the 1997 HIES is currently in progress

(August–September 2002) and will be followed by the

annual agriculture survey planned for

October–November 2002.

DoS contribution to FIVIMS

The main contribution of DoS to FIVIMS would be in the

provision of statistical information. The department

currently has three good existing databases (see Table 1)

with the expected addition of the 2002 HIES, once it is

published. These studies provide the most recent

baseline information, because they are conducted within

a five-year time period and share a common underlying

sampling frame.

Careful integration and analysis of datasets could

highlight possible areas of food insecurity and

vulnerability in Samoa. This would also allow more

focused research to be undertaken. DoS also has good

networks and working relationships with other

government agencies and with villages. Overall, the

department has strong technical skills, experience and

expertise in conducting national census and surveys

that are statistically sound and valid.

Quality data and good access to it form the basis of

well-grounded policy-making and reflect good

governance. In its Strategy for the development of

Samoa, 2002–2004 (SDS) the Government of Samoa

emphasized the need to continuously improve

statistical information (GoS, 2002: 29). The objectives

of a national FIVIMS are in line with government policy

on statistical information and this should generate

the necessary support for FIVIMS in the medium and

long term.

DoS constraints and weaknesses

One potential constraint of the DoS is the limitation of

information from demographic surveys linked to FIVIMS.

Demographic surveys are designed to collect

demographic data, and may have limited information

specifically related to food insecurity and vulnerability.

Possible incorporation of FIVIMS core indicators into

demographic surveys could be flagged as an option for

the future.

The problem of under-reporting is also significant,

especially in the collection of sensitive information such


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Table 1 Available databases – DoS

Type of information Source Storage Coverage Dissemination

1999 Census of agriculture National census Census database National Census report Tabular report

2001 Census of population National census Census database National Census report Tabular report

1997 Household Income and National survey Survey database National Census report Expenditure Survey (HIES) Tabular report

2002 Household Income and National survey Survey database In progress Pending Expenditure Survey (HIES)

as household income and expenditure. The DoS

recognizes this constraint and this is taken into a

ccount during survey design. The HIES is one example

where sensitive data are collected and where

possible over- or under-reporting is expected to

some degree.

Work overload becomes a problem especially

when annual and regular activities coincide with major

censuses or surveys, which could overstretch limited

staff. One such case is the cancellation of the 2001

Annual Agriculture Survey because of the 2001 Census

of Population. Planning and good management

between users and DoS could be encouraged through

a FIVIMS-type inter-institutional coordination

mechanism.

The analysis of relevant FIVIMS indicators – for

example, size of household and size of subsistence

agriculture holdings – and the mapping of this

information to create visual representations requires

skilled personnel. DoS has GIS capability and full

digitized administrative boundary layers in addition to

geo-referencing data from the recent national census.

However, there may be a need to upgrade and sustain

GIS capability of DoS with a view towards FIVIMS-type

indicators.

DoS institutional issues

Given the rapid change in computer and GIS

technology, strengthening of DoS GIS capability

combined with continual upgrading and maintaining of

personnel skills is vital. The DoS has a GIS unit that was

set up by a local GIS consultant with computer

equipment funded by a FAO Technical Cooperation

Programme under the 1999 Census of Agriculture.

However, the skill level of personnel trained in GIS

capability is less advanced than that of personnel in the

DLSE, which could be addressed by targeted capacity

building. Adding economic indicators to monitor

FIVIMS activities would require training personnel in

economic statistics. Therefore, it is necessary to

strengthen the collection and analysis skills of personnel

in the DoS. An overseas expert or the Central Bank of

Samoa and Treasury Department could provide possible

assistance: both institutions deal with economic

indicators in their line of work and have extensive

experience in this field.

INISTRY OF AGRICULTURE,FORESTS, FISHERIES AND

METEOROLOGY

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forests, Fisheries and

Meteorology (MAFFM) is mandated to develop the

agriculture sector and subsectors of forests and

fisheries. It has a wide range of information sources with

databases on crops, livestock, fisheries, forests and

climate.

The 1999 Census of Agriculture provides the most

recent baseline information on crops, livestock, forestry

and fisheries along with the annual Agriculture Survey,

which monitors trends. The first annual survey was in

2000 and the next one is scheduled for October 2002.

The annual survey for 2001 was cancelled due to over-

commitment to the population census.

MAFFM contribution to FIVIMS

MAFFM’s Crops Division has good information on crop

production, pest and disease control as well as ongoing

crop research. Data on acreage under taro production,

research into potential crops and the status of pest and

disease control are valuable inputs in mapping possible

issues relevant to ensuring food security in Samoa. The

Extension and Advisory Services Section of the Division

also has good links to rural village communities: these

could facilitate information collection and dissemination

for any future FIVIMS activities.

The Animal Production and Health Division has

baseline information on livestock production, especially

cattle – for example, the total number of stock, cattle farm

condition, pasture condition as well as stock condition.

The Division also has information on animal health issues

collected from farmers and from meat inspections – for

instance, average slaughter rate – which are all relevant

information for a national FIVIMS for Samoa.

The Fisheries Division of MAFFM has a

comprehensive database on fisheries and marine

resources, into which data from environment, scientific

and fisheries surveys are fed. These include information

on the status of the marine environment (such as

biodiversity and fish habitat); information on fishery

biomass; annual fish catch and value for both inshore,

offshore fisheries and aquaculture. The 2000 Household

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Fisheries Survey provided good baseline information on

fishing methods, volume and value of village landings,

and substitute sources of protein at the household level.

In addition, the 2002 Fisher Creel Survey scheduled for

October will continue to provide valuable information on

fisheries.

The Fisheries database can contribute valuable

information on production, economic and financial value

of fisheries as well as an outlook assessment of fisheries

stock.

MAFFM’s Meteorology Division maintains a

database of weather patterns, which includes

information on rainfall, temperature, sunshine, wind and

tide. The division also has good historical records of

cyclones, earthquakes, and volcano eruptions that have

struck Samoa.


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Table 2 Available information systems/databases – MAFFM

Type of information Year Database Coverage Dissemination

Census of Agriculture 1989 Census Database National Census report Tabular report

Census of Agriculture 1999 Census Database National Census report Tabular report

Annual Agricultural Survey 2000 Survey Database National Survey report Tabular report

Annual Agricultural Survey (survey 2002 Pending National Pending scheduled for September 2002)

Cyclone Damage: Situation Analysis 1991/1992 Monitoring survey Village Agriculture and Household food report

Vegetable Market Survey 1993/1994 Monitoring survey Salelologa Survey reportConducted in the two main local Fugalei commercial markets

Taro Leaf Blight Survey 1993/1994 Monitoring survey Village Survey reportHousehold

Giant African Snail Survey 1996 Monitoring survey Village Survey reportHousehold

Cattle Survey 1996/1997 Village Survey reportHousehold Annual report

Cattle Survey 2002 In progress Village In progressHousehold

Fisher Creel Survey 2002 Pending Village Pending Survey is scheduled for October Household

Household fisheries survey 2000 Village Report Household

Offshore tuna fisheries Ongoing Survey database Market outlets Monthly newsletterFishing boats Annual report

Offshore bottom-fish fisheries Ongoing Survey database Market outlets Monthly newsletterFishing boats Annual report

Inshore fisheries Ongoing Survey database Village Monthly newsletterAnnual report

Climate: Current Database National Daily forecasts

• rainfall Monthly reports

• temperature Quarterly reports

• sunshine

• wind

• tide

Natural disasters 1992 Database National Available on request

As a major user of statistical information, MAFFM

has linked the annual update of baseline information as

one of its core activity with DoS. This will provide

progressive monitoring of the sector and facilitate the

development of credible agricultural policy, which will

benefit any FIVIMS activities greatly. Furthermore, broad

government policy in the SDS has identified food

security as a priority area that falls under MAFFM’s

mandate. Government backing can be mobilized on that

basis in implementing FIVIMS.

Other benefits that MAFFM could contribute to

FIVIMS include:

• a well-established village network with good working

relationships with farmers through the ministry’s

extension services. This would be a good avenue for

information collection and dissemination;

• experience in working on cross-sectoral projects with

other government institutions and NGOs;

• good working relationships with other government

institutions;

• both national survey experience (the Census of

Agriculture) and more sector-specific experience

(crops, cattle and fisheries).

MAFFM constraints and weaknesses

The Ministry faces several constraints. Key issues

include, firstly, the strong focus on agricultural

production, pest and disease control and quarantine. It

is vital to link these issues to food security clearly in

terms of improved quality of diet and livelihood security.

Secondly, the development and maintenance of a

database with annual surveys will have huge impact on

both financial and human resources. The Ministry has

good sources of information (crops, livestock, fisheries,

meteorology) but its divisions have varying degrees of

limitation, in particular with regard to staff and technical

skills in the collection, management and dissemination

of information.

Thirdly, a strong focus on commercial cattle

production appears to overlook the more vulnerable and

poorer farmers.

MAFFM institutional issues

One issue that emerges is the necessity for

strengthening MAFFM’s capacity to update crop profiles

and develop new ones. Crop profile information is vital

for the development of baseline data in the economics

and marketing of agricultural crops for policy

development.

The Policy, Planning and Communication Division

(PPCD) is responsible for the development and

maintenance of key baseline information on main crops

for Samoa. The division is currently understaffed with

the majority of the officers lacking experience and the

necessary analytical skills in data collection and

management. An improvement in MAFFM’s capacity to

collect, manage and maintain databases is important.

It is also vital that MAFFM’s ability to carry out

agricultural surveys and its capabilities in generating

analyses from the information are enhanced. The

Ministry currently lacks the necessary computer

programs and resources to input and analyse survey

data.

Department of Lands, Survey and EnvironmentThe Department of Lands, Survey and Environment

(DLSE) is responsible for the management of land

resources and the environment. DLSE has a repertoire of

digitized hazard zone maps and a good GIS database

on Samoa. This capability could be utilized by FIVIMS to

incorporate socio-economic and food security data into

maps. In addition, hazard maps are invaluable for

highlighting areas that are most vulnerable to natural

disasters, such as coastlines. The availability and access

to this information will greatly assist planning and policy

formulation in identifying those at risk.

The department also has staff who are trained in

using GIS and the use of aerial photographs and

orthomaps. The technical capabilities of DLSE would be

invaluable for implementing any FIVIMS activities and

could act as a key government institution for both

producing and using information.

DLSE Contribution to FIVIMS

The greatest contribution of the department to FIVIMS

activities would be in mapping capability. The availability

of skilled DLSE GIS personnel to carry out the analysis is

also a major contribution to FIVIMS.

DLSE offers a good GIS database on Samoa and

personnel have access to and experience in working

with maps. Socio-economic data could be incorporated


6

with natural resource and environmental information in

order to highlight food-insecure and vulnerable areas.

Furthermore, the monitoring of ground changes

over time via aerial photos and topographical maps

allows comparative analysis to be undertaken.

This could enhance the range of information available

to policy-makers for policy formulation. Table 3 shows

the type of information that is collected and stored by

DLSE.

DLSE constraints and weaknesses

The core functions and activities of the department are

managing land resources and the environment.

Technical expertise in GIS is focused on these specific

activities; as a result, any activities outside their main

functions are likely to impinge on the department’s

human and financial resources.

It is important that approval and commitment from

DLSE regarding FIVIMS activities are obtained. The

possible linking of food insecurity and vulnerability

issues to core functions of the department should be

flagged to ensure attention is given to FIVIMS activities.

DLSE institutional issues

Strengthening GIS capability is an important requirement

for enhancing DLSE’s contribution to FIVIMS. The

Department’s personnel are relatively experienced and

skilled in GIS, and there is also enhanced computer

capability with the recent return of a Master’s graduate

specializing in GIS. However, keeping up to date with

GIS technology is a priority. A World Bank Project

implemented in 2000 is currently addressing these areas

in strengthening the GIS capability of DLSE.

Staff retention is another area that needs

addressing. It is noted that the strengthening of GIS and

computer skills need to take staff turnover into account

(Bruno et al., 2001). The loss of experienced GIS

personnel to the private sector is seen by DLSE as a

major risk in the long term.

Health DepartmentThe Health Department (HD) is the main source of health

information in Samoa – collating data on nutritional

status, basic health status and food consumption. Its

Nutrition Centre collects a range of information and has


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Table 3 GIS database

Type of information Year Coverage Dissemination

Land use 1990 National • ARCINFO packages

• MapInfo digital packages

Land capability 1990 National • ARCINFO packages


Land tenure 1990 National • ARCINFO packages


Contours 1990 National • ARCINFO packages


Soils 1990 National ARCINFO packages


Rivers/streams 1990 National • ARCINFO packages


Roads 1990 National • ARCINFO packages


Ecosystems 1990 National • Digital

• Map

Biodiversity 1994 District/village • Point (GIS)

Coastal hazards 2000 National • MapInfo packages

Aerial photos September, 1999 Coastal areas (scale 1:5000) • Photographs

• National (scale 1:50000)

Topographical maps November, 2000 National (scale 1:50000) • Maps

Source: Crawley, 2000

a system of reporting on health issues from regional

health centres. The system of reporting, however, is not

fully functional and will need strengthening. Most of the

information collected by the centre is on:

• maternal anaemia;

• malnutrition in children;

• low birth weight incidence.

The information is partial in coverage and these

gaps are acknowledged as drawbacks. In an effort to

bridge this information gap, research studies on obesity

and diet conducted in 1991 and 1996 are partly

completed. Likewise, a National Nutrition Survey was

conducted in 1999 and information should become

available towards the end of 2002. In collaboration with

the World Health Organization, the department was set

to conduct a study on non-communicable disease

factors at the end of the year 2002.

HD contribution to FIVIMS

The Nutrition Centre would be a good information

source for FIVIMS activities. Although partial in

coverage, data compiled and collected by the centre

could still be utilized, particularly vital indicators such as

birth weight, maternal anaemia and malnutrition in

women and children.

Routine health information from regional health

centres would also be valuable for FIVIMS. This

information could highlight potential areas that are

vulnerable to food insecurity. Underpinning this is the

necessity to get the system fully functional. Reports

from studies conducted in 1996 and 1999 are expected

soon, and, while historical, the data can still assist in

undertaking comparative analyses.

HD constraints and weaknesses

Gaps in statistical information are a major weakness in

nutrition and diet information in Samoa. The lack of

timely and recent survey data is also a notable

constraint. The coverage of routine health information is

also partial and restricted to patients that are admitted

to the national hospital. Nutritional information suffers

from a general lack of baseline information.

HD institutional issues

The Nutrition Centre is severely under-resourced both in

equipment and personnel. There are only two qualified

nutritionists with the Centre, and intended programmes and

activities are restricted as a result of limited staff. This is a

possible area that needs strengthening through FIVIMS.

Support is also necessary to bridge the statistical

information gap in order to develop baseline information:

lack of such reference information hinders informed

policy-making.

Potential overall contributionof Samoan key institutions to FIVIMSTable 5 shows the overall contribution that these four

key institutions can make to food vulnerability mapping

systems in Samoa.

THER PARTNER INSTITUTIONS FORA NATIONAL FIVIMS

The assessment study identified key relevant institutions

for the set-up of a national FIVIMS. Other institutions

O


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Table 4 Available databases – Nutrition Centre

Type of information Source Storage Analysis Dissemination

1991 Dietary Intake Survey Research survey - Complete Article report – Journal of American Dietetic Association, (1999) February, vol. 99

1996 Dietary Intake survey Research survey - Pending Pending

1999 National Nutrition Survey National survey Survey database Pending

Pending

2002 Non-Communicable National survey In progress In progress Pending Disease Risk Factor Survey


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Table 5 Relevant institutions: strengths, constraints and possible contributions to a national FIVIMS in Samoa

Institutions Strenght Constraints Possible FIVIMS resources

Central Bank ofSamoa

Ministry ofAgriculture,Forestry, Fisheries,and Meteorology(MAFFM)Crops Division

MAFFM, Policy,Planning andCommunicationDivision

MAFFM, FisheriesDivision

Interest in imports – related tofood quality.Developed and maintainingdatabase on exports of majorcommodities.Well-developed data collection,analysis and reporting system.Integrated and overallperspective of food security (e.g.food quality and quarantine)within economic framework.

On-farm research on newtechnology for crops and pestmanagement involving datacollection.Network at village level ofdemonstration farms andfarmers.

Good overview of activitieswithin the Ministry – could play acoordinating role for theorganization in any involvementwith FIVIMS.Good existing relationship withfarmers through extensionprogrammes and workshopswhich could be built upon in thecollection and dissemination ofdata.Developed and maintain keybaseline information on maincrops for Samoa.Government economic strategyincludes securing of foodsecurity, so political backingcould be mobilised on this basis.

Key institution concerned withfishery production - majorcomponent in diet.Work with villages to improveavailability of food through stockenhancement – existingextension programmes.Survey experience.

Identifying appropriate person toparticipate in any FIVIMS andfinding time in their work plan.Staff time – need to have aclearly identified role in anysystem.

Strong focus on agriculturalproduction and quarantine, pestcontrol issues – would need todemonstrate clear link betweenthese issues and food security(improved quality of diet,livelihood security).

Need more information onmarket prices and developmentsfrom Trade and Commerce.Future expansion of productionwill be affected by the “matai”system through its effects onuntitled youth – this will affect theeffectiveness of their agriculturalcampaigns.

Resource constraints will preventanother full-scale subsistencefishery survey within 3–5 years.This will be offset by addition offishery relevant questions to theannual Agricultural Surveyupdate.

Database on exports of majorcommodities.Reports on economic indicators.Collection of data fromagricultural markets on volumeand prices of major products.

Farmer networkInformation from on-farm trialsand involvement in future ones.

Results from workshops held onrelevant topics – e.g. smallfarmer production for export.Crop profiles for development ofbaseline information profiles.

Data on seafood production andconsumption drawn from theSubsistence Fishery Survey andannual updates.Links to food safety andnutritional quality throughHAACP activity.Information network amongstvillages involved with stockenhancement programmes -could link to other actionsdealing with food security.

Continued


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Table 5 (Continued) Relevant institutions: strengths, constraints and possible contributions to a national FIVIMS in Samoa


MAFFM, LivestockDivision

MAFFM,MeteorologyDivision

Revitalized Cattle Farmers’Association – grass-root networkthat could be used to addressfood security and associatedissues related to cattle farming.The division seems wellresourced, although demands onstaff time are considerable andcan cause conflict in attending topriorities and have enthusiasticstaff.Hold information on some keyfood production issues (livestockproducts).Some information held on meatand milk inspection results couldbe linked to food safety and foodquality if the FIVIMS wants tofocus on this as an issue inSamoa.

The Division collects climate data(wind, temperature, rainfall,tides).Maintain database on naturaldisasters that have struckSamoa, e.g. cyclones,earthquakes, volcanic eruptions.The division also has geologicalmap information.

Information on livestockproducts is restricted to thatavailable through commercialchannels – poultry and pigproduction would be omitted orunderestimated at best.Current focus on commercialcattle production would seem toargue against including the morevulnerable (poorer) farmers in thefarmer network. This could beoffset if the system wants to usethis network through linking it toother activities.

Computer equipmentoverworked. A great need existsto upgrade and maintaincomputer system.Staff shortages – the Divisionsuffers from shortage ofexperience and qualified staff.

They could provide data onlivestock production from farms(partial – mostly cattle)They also hold information onanimal health issues based oncalls received from farmers andmeat inspection results.There is established system offarmer groups and associatedvisits – could be linked to otherdata collection or disseminationof information relevant toFIVIMS and agriculture.Hold a registry of cattle farmerswith details on owners andanimals – allow monitoring ofmovement of cattle – this islinked to GIS information andhence can be mapped.Store data from 3 of the majorbutchers in Apia on origin ofmeat purchased and details ofthe animal.

The Division is awaiting approvalfrom the Cabinet DevelopmentCommittee for funding an earlywarning system, which couldgreatly assist FIVIMS activities.A comprehensive weatherdatabase.

Continued


11



Health Department(HD)Nutrition Centre

The information collected by thecentre on maternal anaemia,malnutrition in children and lowbirth weight incidence, whilepartial, would contribute keyelements to any national FIVIMS.System established for thecollection and reporting ofinformation on health issues tothe nutrition centre from theregional health centres –although currently this is not fullyfunctional and would need to bestrengthened/fully activated.Staff very committed to theirprogramme and would contributethis dedication to a system thatworked to improve theinformation availability andquality in the country.Staff realistic in their outlook(especially as regards resourceconstraints) and keen to exploreways of linking to existingactivities to make the best use ofavailable resources.Good network with organizationsdealing with health and nutritionwith links to FAO, the hospital,and several NGOs and a solidreputation with respect to dataquality.

The group is severely under-resourced – both in staffnumbers (one degree, onecertificate and one finishingcertificate) and equipment, thishas constrained fundexpenditure on their intendedprogrammes and activities.Information gathered is partial incoverage (often restricted to thein-patients of the main hospital),patchy in quality (sub-regionalhealth clinic data is often notentered), lacks timeliness (nocomparatively recent survey hasbeen done of diets, nutrition,etc.) and there is a general lackof key baseline information.Resource constraints mean thatthere is no opportunity to meetthese gaps throughimplementation of surveys. This gap is to some extent metthrough studies done byoverseas researchers but theresults are often delayed or onlypartially available to local staff –e.g. A study on obesity and dietwas done in 1991 and 1996 butonly the 1991 data has beenanalysed, as the researcherhasn’t had time to analyse theother data.A possible key study on the dietsof school children was partiallycompleted (on Upolu Island) butdata from Savai’i was notcollected.Active participation by the groupin a FIVIMS would be limited byavailable resources and staff – ifFIVIMS activities could beexplicitly linked to some activitiesseen as key by the Centre, therewill be very active interest andsupport.

Information on low birth weight(partial coverage) The Centrecould generate key informationon low birth weight rates andmalnourished children forinclusion in the FIVIMS system.This would initially be from theApia area but long term coulddevelop to national coverage. Maternal anaemia (partialcoverage)Malnourished children broughtto hospitalLinks to some research fromoverseas on obesity and diets inSamoaIn the future other nutritionalinformation generated by nursesin regional health clinics couldbe incorporated within theFIVIMS system (if this systemcan be activated).The group could serve as a linkbetween Samoa FIVIMS andexternal technical information onobesity and related issues.

Continued


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Department ofLands, Survey andEnvironment (DLSE)

Department ofStatistics (DoS)

TreasuryDepartment (TSY)

Department has trained staffexperienced with GIS - andWorld Bank project isstrengthening these further.Experience with the use ofsatellite imagery and itsapplication to monitoringchanges on the groundHave developed hazard maps foruse by decision-makers.

There is strong technical skill andexperience in conductingstatistically valid surveys andcensuses.There is existing historical data atsubnational level on some of theindicators which may be ofinterest to a national FIVIMS.There is a clear programme ofwork into which the FIVIMSactivities could clearly fit.There are good and improvingresources in GIS information andmapping with some trainingunder way. The need for furthercapacity building and staffdevelopment is clearlyrecognized.Have good working relations withseveral other departments -useful first step in developmentof a network.

Good history in working withother agencies in managing andcollecting data.Extensive experience in analysisand dissemination of technicaldata and information fromdifferent sources.Committed to regular and timelyproduction of the bulletin.Recognize impact ofstrengthened agricultural sectoron the balance of payments.

While GIS and related computerskills are relatively strong in theorganization, they will need to befurther strengthened to take intoaccount losses to the privatesector.Technical department focused onland and environment so foodsecurity would need to beexplicitly linked to their corefunctions.

The time frame for the upcomingdemographic census is very tightas far as incorporating FIVIMSfocused questions – and thestage of development of thequestionnaire is advanced. Some data gathered particularlydemographic through the “chief”system is partial as there is noculture of statistics – hence thereis significant (>50% in someinstances) under-reporting.The questionnaire for thedemographic survey is primarilyfocused on that type ofinformation and less on datadirectly applicable to foodsecurity.

FIVIMS related data is noteasiest to collect – so wouldneed careful planning to get bestfrom what is available.

GIS skilled personnelGIS database on SamoaHazard map for incorporationwith socio-economic and foodsecurity data.Access to satellite imagery andexperience in its interpretation.

Baseline maps to ensurestandardized use of areas.Training on economic statistics.Statistical expertise in carryingout key surveys.Agricultural census/survey dataBasic population data from theCensus of 1991 and upcoming2001.

Economic information –especially links to internationalfinancial and economic systemsNetwork and links to otherinstitutionsReport production andmanagement experience.

(Adapted from Bruno et al., 2001)

were identified that could play a vital and supporting

role as well, including the Central Bank of Samoa,

Treasury Department, Department of Trade, Commerce

and Industry, Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Education

Department and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The

support and participation of these partner institutions

is important; keeping them informed and involved in

any national FIVIMS could foster good information

networks.

OSSIBLE KEY INDICATORSDATABASE SYSTEM

FOR SAMOA

The set-up of a Key Indicators Database System (KIDS)

for Samoa is outlined in Figure 1. Data and information

flow into a national database where they are used in

different ways and processed into reports, graphical

format, tabular format and maps for users of

information. The flow of data and information begins

from the bottom with information systems and

databases held by various organizations.

Figure 2 represents various components for KIDS.

This is divided into four broad categories:

1 individual outcome indicators

2 household context indicators

3 national food economy indicators

4 national and subnational context indicators.

Institutions in Samoa from which data information

could be extracted are also shown within these broad

categories. Table 7 also provides valuable information on

possible indicators from partner institutions for a

national FIVIMS.

UMMARY OF CONCLUSIONS

Key institutionsThe assessment study identified four key institutions

that have relevant information systems and databases

for the initial set-up of a national FIVIMS. These are the

Department of Statistics, the Ministry of Agriculture,

Forests, Fisheries and Meteorology, the Department of

Lands, Survey and Environment and Health Department.

Each institution contributes different types of information

and together provide a broad range of expertise and

experience that could support a national FIVIMS for

Samoa.

Partner institutionsThe assessment study also identified several partner

institutions that could play a supporting but vital role in

the set-up of national FIVIMS. These partner institutions

include the Central Bank of Samoa, Treasury

Department, Department of Trade, Commerce and

Industry, Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Education

Department and the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Constraints and limitationsThe study noted several constraints and limitations that

vary in degree from institution to institution. These are

related to the collection, management, analyses,

dissemination and utilization of information.

S

P


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Table 6 Information systems/database from partner institutions

Institution Type of information and/or contribution to a national FIVIMS

Central Bank of Samoa Monetary information: statistics on local markets, industrial production, merchandise trade, financial, inflation rate, tourism data and overseas transactions.

Treasury Department Economic information: national accounts, financial statistics, sectoral shares, exchange rates, GDP, foreign grants, imports and exports statistics.

Department of Trade, Market, investment and trade information. Commerce and Industry

Education Department Information on level of education (primary, secondary, tertiary), adult literacy rate.

Ministry of Women’s Affairs Link to women’s committees and good grass-roots information at the village level.

Ministry of Internal Affairs Links at the village level through village mayors or pulenuu. Could contribute grass-root information from villages.


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Table 7 Possible indicators for a national FIVIMS in Samoa

Institution/organization Type of information and data Existing and/or possible indicators

Health Department - • Maternal anaemia • Obesity • Low birth weightNutrition Centre • Undernourished children • Diet composition • Body mass index for age

• Underweight children • Prevalence of malaria • Underweight children

• Infant mortality rate under 5 years

• Maternal mortality rate • Underweight children

• Total fertility rate 5-10 years

• Contraceptive use prevalence • Maternal anaemia

• Infants exclusively breastfed • Number of undernourished children

• Immunization coverage

Department of Lands, Survey • Environmental risks and • Soil slope • Total area (km2)and Environment hazards • Soil texture • Land area (ha)

• Land-use changes, • Soil fertility • Arable land (% of land area)land-site planning • Availability of water resources • Agricultural area (ha)

• Soil inventories • Rates of soil erosion • Permanent pasture • Watershed management • Rates of fishstock depletion (% of land area)• Endangered species and • Rates of changes for • Soil types

habitat tracking groundwater• Erosion and sedimentation

selection• Road planning• Surface water retention• Delineation of land boundaries• Solid waste disposal site

planning• Environmental impact

assessment

Department of Statistics • Crop production • Wages and salaries • Percentage of population • Crop yield • Average household members in different age groups• Consumer Price Index • Households headed by women • Population growth rate• Vital statistics • Age dependency ratio • Urban/rural population • Food imports • Access to safe water shares• Income and expenditure • Average household size • Average household income• Population • Income from agriculture

• Income from non-agricultural sources

Ministry of Agriculture, • Crop production • Milk and milk products • Incidence of destructiveForests, Fisheries and • Crop yield production cyclonesMeteorology • Cost of production • Egg production • Incidence of destructive

• Livestock production • Fertilizer production floods• Fisheries production • Cattle production • Incidence of destructive• Rainfall • Poultry production volcanic eruptions • Temperature • Swine production • Incidence of destructive• Natural disasters • Marine fisheries production droughts

by region • Root/tuber production• Total marine catch by region • Fruit production• Marine molluscs by catch • Vegetable production

by region • Meat production• Marine crustaceans • Aquaculture fish production

GIS mappingGIS mapping is a priority for FIVIMS activities in Samoa.

Two institutions have this capability and mapping

relevant datasets and information from existing

databases is cited as immediate activities for a national

strategy and work plan.

KIDS frameworkA possible framework for a KIDS for Samoa is proposed

– this could be based on existing information systems

and databases. The framework could assist future

FIVIMS activities in the selection of core indicators that

could help monitor food insecurity and vulnerability

needs in Samoa.

National FIVIMS focal pointThe need to formalize a national FIVIMS Focal Point for

Samoa is a noted concern (Riches, 2002). The current

absence of a formal contact person, organization or

government institution to coordinate and facilitate the

implementation of FIVIMS activities is a notable

constraint. This needs to be addressed if the initiative is

to move ahead. It is vital therefore to seek government

approval before or parallel to any planned FIVIMS

activities. The selection and housing of a focal point is

strictly a national decision: a starting-point could be the

four key institutions identified above. Key issues that

need consideration include the mandate, effectiveness

and sustainability of FIVIMS activities in the long term.


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Figure 1 Possible KIDS for Samoa

ANALYTICAL TOOLS• Statistical functions• Causality chain

analyses• Simulation models

DISPLAY TOOLS• Key indicators• GIS mapping system

NATIONALLEVEL

SubnationalInformation Systems• MAFFM• HD• DLSE• DoS

Donor-held Information Systems• NZODA• AusAID• JICA• EU

Privately held Databases• Non-Government

Organization

UN Agency Information Systems• UNESCO• UNDP• WHO• FAO• WMO

DATA STORAGE TOOLKEY INDICATORSDATABASE

Reports Maps Charts Tables

USERS• Policymakers/Advisers• Government officials • Donor community

The possibility of linking FIVIMS into core activities of

a possible focal point that has the mandate on food

insecurity and vulnerability should also be addressed. A

possible guide is the Strategy for the Development of

Samoa (SDS) statement, which outlines priority areas for

development and institutions responsible for these areas.

Appropriate institutional infrastructure, resources

(finance and human) to facilitate and coordinate FIVIMS

activities are also vital. For example, does the potential

focal point have the capacity and experience to provide

credible policy advice on food insecurity and

vulnerability related issues?

The potential focal point should also have the ability

to communicate and network effectively and experience

in working with cross-sectoral issues and with a wide

range of stakeholders (government institutions, non-

government organizations, the donor community and

overseas missions).

Recommendations The following recommendations are drawn based on the

findings of the assessment study:

1 It is recommended that the formulation of a national

FIVIMS strategy consider priority areas identified by

the Government of Samoa. These are outlined in the

Statement for the SDS 2002–2004. It is anticipated

that the value and long-term sustainability of a

national FIVIMS could be significant to Samoa if it is

Figure 2 Recommended components of KIDS and possible contributors in Samoa


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EconomicConditions• TSY• CBS

Environmental Conditions and Natural Resources• DLSE• MAFFM

DemographicConditions• DoS• HD• ED

Political Conditions

Social & Cultural Conditions• ED• HD

Risks, Hazards Shocks• DLSE• MAFFM

Food Availability• MAFFM• DoS• CBS

Food Access• MAFFM• CBS• TSY

Stability of Food Supplies and Access• MAFFM

HouseholdCharacteristics• MAFFM• DoS• HD

Health and Sanitation• HD• DLSE

Care and Feeding Practices• HD

Health Status• HD

Food Consumption• HD

Nutritional Status• HD

Individual Outcome IndicatorsHousehold Context Indicators

National FoodEconomyIndicators

National and Sub-NationalContext Indicators

perceived as a priority area endorsed and in line with

development goals and policies of government.

2 It is recommended that the immediate task of FIVIMS is

to seek consensus amongst the four key government

institutions identified in the assessment study regarding

the selection of an interim national focal point. Any

decision for a national focal point must be made by

Cabinet, but the need to put forward a case for Cabinet

endorsement requires a policy submission made by the

most appropriate and relevant institution whose

mandate covers FIVIMS-related activities. The interim

national focal point would function as a secretary until

Cabinet makes the final decision.

3 The formal channel of soliciting Cabinet endorsement

is that a government institution put forward a policy

paper to the Cabinet Development Committee (CDC),

outlining the need and relevance of FIVIMS activities

to (1) priority areas for development of government,

and (2) within the mandated functions of the applicant

institution. It is highly recommended that one of the

four institutions outlined above undertake this initial

task in getting the necessary political backing.

4 It is recommended that the national strategy and

work plan take into consideration priority areas

outlined in the FIVIMS consultancy reports – namely

the analysis and integration of statistical information

into GIS mapping when planning immediate FIVIMS

activities for Samoa. Furthermore, the development of

FIVIMS activities should consider constraints and

weaknesses of existing information systems and

databases.

5 It is recommended that capacity-building activities

are formulated and developed into the work plan for

the collection, management, analyses, dissemination

and utilization of information.

EFERENCES

Bruno, A, Riches, J. & Fiti-Sinclair, R. 2001. Supporting

pilot applications of the Food Insecurity and

Vulnerability Information and Mapping Systems

(FIVIMS) Initiative in Small Island Developing States.

Report on First Mission to Samoa and Fiji. Rome.

FAO.

Crawley, B. 2000. GIS data assessment for Samoa.

Sub-Regional Office for the Pacific Islands. FAO.

FAO. 2000. Guidelines for national FIVIMS – background

and principles. Rome. FAO.

Government of Samoa. 2002. Strategy for the

development of Samoa 2002–2004. Apia, Samoa.

Economic Policy and Planning Division, Treasury

Department.

Riches, J. 2002. Supporting pilot applications of the

Food Insecurity and Vulnerability Information and

Mapping Systems (FIVIMS) Initiative in Small Island

Developing States. Report on Second Mission to

Samoa and Fiji. Rome. FAO.

The Samoa Observer. 2002. More political will

and resources. FAO. 5 September. The Samoa

Observer

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Name Organization/institution

Mr Iosefo Bourne Central Bank of Samoa

Mr Karras Lui

Ms Donna Sila MAFFM - Animal Health and Production Division.

Mr Atonio Mulipola MAFFM - Fisheries Division.

Mr Fa’atoia Malele MAFFM - Meteorology Division.

Ms Christine Quested Health Department – Nutrition Centre

Mr Bismarck Crawley Department of Lands, Survey and Environment

Ms Mativa Mulipola Department of Statistics

Ms Leilua Taulealo

Ms Mata Schuster Habitat for Humanity

Appendix IOrganizations and

institutions consulted


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Introduction The FIVIMS (Food Insecurity and Vulnerability

Information Mapping System) initiative is a result of the

World Food Summit in 1996 when world leaders

pledged their commitment to fight world hunger and

poverty. The goal of the initiative is to support and

promote national level activities that compile, analyse

and disseminate valuable statistical information. This will

help identify food-insecure sections of the population,

vulnerable members and assist policy-makers develop

and implement policies that help attain food security and

reduce associated poverty.

Samoa is one of the five small island developing

states that will pilot the FIVIMS initiative5 under an EU

funded project GCP/INT/742/EC. A major part of this

project in Samoa is the development of a national

FIVIMS strategy.

The following study is undertaken to evaluate

current statistical information systems/databases that

could assist in the development of Samoa’s FIVIMS

strategy. The objectives are (1) to make an inventory

checklist of existing statistical information

systems/databases and (2) to identify weaknesses and

opportunities for priority areas that need institutional

capacity building.

Section 1. Existing informationsystems and database1 What type of information does the Department

collect?

2 How is this information collected, compiled, stored

and disseminated?

3 What kind of analysis do you undertake with the

information?

4 Is the information updated regularly?

5 Does the Department carry out any audit checks for

accuracy of information?

6 Who are the main information users?

7 How do you use the information? Do you collect,

compile and pass information or do you develop

policies from information?

8 How accessible is the information system/database?

What formal channel(s) are taken to gain access?

Section 2. Institutionalcapacity – issues relating tofood security and vulnerabilityinformation generation,management, analysis anddissemination9 What are the main problems or constraints faced by

the Department in generating information,

management of information systems/databases,

analysis and dissemination of information?

10 What priority areas does the Department think needs

strengthening with regards to information

systems/databases?

11 Samoa is one of five small island developing nations

that will pilot the FIVIMS initiative. As a partnership

effort among different organizations, who would be

the most suitable organization to be the national

contact or focal point for FIVIMS? Why?

Probe for:

• type of information;

• their coverage;

• periodicity;

• quality;

• analytical methods;

• dissemination approaches

Appendix IIChecklist for interviews

5 The other small island developing states are Barbados, Cape Verde,Comoros and Fiji.


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Government /Institutions

• Central Bank ofSamoa

• Ministry ofAgriculture,Forests, Fisheriesand Meteorology

• Ministry ofEducation

• Ministry of ForeignAffairs

• Nutrition Centre,Health Department

• Internal AffairsDepartment

• Department ofLands, Survey andEnvironment

• StatisticsDepartment

• Ministry of Trade,Commerce andIndustry

• TreasuryDepartment

• Samoa WaterAuthority

• National ProvidentFund

• Ministry ofWomen’s Affairs

Universities

• National Universityof Samoa

• University of theSouth Pacific

National NGOs

• Gethsemane andTHORN

• LotoFiamalamalamaSchool

• Loto TaumafaiSchool

• Women inBusiness

• Habitat forHumanity

Bilateral agencies

• AusAID

• JICA

• NZODA

International NGOsand others

• Peace Corps

• South PacificRegionalEnvironmentalProgramme(SPREP)

UN agencies

• UNESCO

• WorldMeteorologicalOrganization –Regional Office

• UNDP – Samoa

Appendix IIIExisting information systems/databases

relevant to FIVIMS activities in Samoa

an assessment of existing information … · ausaid australian agency for international development...

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