Pago Pago, American Samoa – The Office of the Governor, in partnership with the American Samoa Resilience Office and the Deep-Sea Mining Community Engagement Task Force, is pleased to announce a hybrid public forum on deep-sea mining (DSM), scheduled for Wednesday, August 6, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula and Lieutenant Governor Pulumata’ala Ae Ae Jr. invite residents to participate in this critical discussion, accessible both in-person at the Lee Auditorium in Utulei and via live stream.

 

The forum, titled “Deep-Sea Mining: Exploring the Risks, Rewards, and Realities for American Samoa,” will feature diverse perspectives from government officials, industry NGOs, and private sector leaders. Speakers include Scott Vincent, President of the Ocean Minerals Research Center, sharing risk-based insights on DSM; Victor Vescovo, a veteran undersea explorer and co-founder of Insight Equity, who will provide insight on the economic realities of DSM within the Pacific region; and Oliver Gunasekara, CEO of Impossible Metals, presenting on DSM benefits to American Samoa. The event aims to promote transparency, education, and dialogue on DSM’s potential impact on the islands.

 

Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula stated, “This forum is a vital opportunity for our community to learn about deep-sea mining, hear multiple viewpoints, and help shape our future policy through informed dialogue.”

 

Residents are encouraged to attend to learn about DSM’s implications for American Samoa, including investment, technology, and environmental policy. The hybrid format ensures broad participation, with in-person attendance at the Lee Auditorium and a live stream available through multiple channels. For more details, visit www.americansamoa.gov or contact the Governor’s Office at (684) 633-4116.

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