Power & services: Upolu was hit by a major blackout Friday evening, disrupting hospitals, businesses and traffic lights; EPC restored power to the Hospital Feeder and parts of the Palisi and Industrial feeders, with restoration on the 33-kilovolt network completed later. Economic outlook: The IMF says Samoa’s post-pandemic recovery has slowed sharply, estimating FY2025/26 growth at 0.4% as weak domestic demand, higher global energy prices and structural constraints weigh on households, tourism and investment. Leadership in state firms: Cabinet approved new CEOs for the Development Bank of Samoa (Tamaletā Taimang Jensen), Samoa Shipping Corporation (Tau’ili’ili Vaelua Sonny Brown) and the new District Development Authority (Unasa Viane Faifuaina Toala). Renewables & energy security: Sunergise highlights Niue’s solar-plus-battery system as a model for reducing diesel dependence—an approach Samoa could scale up. Ocean protection push: UNICEF Pacific Ambassador Moemoana Schwenke urged Pacific Islanders to oppose deep-sea mining, warning of irreversible harm to ecosystems and Pacific identity. Trade & food industry: Pacific Trade Invest Australia will bring 15 exporters from eight Pacific economies—including Samoa—to Fine Food Australia (31 Aug–3 Sep) to connect premium food and beverage producers with buyers. Policy & compliance: Samoa’s aviation/health rules also came under scrutiny after lawmakers questioned the Department of Health’s limits on food travelers can bring from Samoa.