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Quick Facts
Country Name Independant State of Samoa
Capital Apia
Government

Samoa is an Independent State

Samoa's Government consists of:
Head of State, who swears in the Prime Minister (elected by the Legislative Assembly) and, on the Prime Minister's advice, the Cabinet Ministers.

Independence 1st January 1962 (Western) Samoa became independent from New Zealand administered UN trusteeship.
The Independent State of Samoa celebrates Independence on 1st June every year.
Legal System Based on English common law and local customs; judicial review of legislative acts with respect to fundamental rights of the citizen; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction.
Universal Suffrage

The Electoral Reforms in 1990 resulted in adoption of Universal Sufferage permitting all Samoan citizens 21 years and over to vote, a privilege that was enjoyed only by holders of Matai Titles and Individual Voters.

Total Area 2,860 sq km (slightly smaller than Rhode Island)
Land - 2850 sq km
Water - 10 sq km
Maritime Claims Exclusive economic zone: 200 NM
Climate Rainy season (November to April) Dry season (May to October)
Average monthly temperature ranges from 20 to 30 degree Celsius (72-80 degrees F)
Terrain The islands are of volcanic origin, and the coasts are surrounded by coral reefs. Rugged mountain ranges form the core of both main islands.
Highest Point Mount Silisili - 1857m (Savaii)
Population 176,848 (2001 est)
Birth Rate 15.59 births/1,000 population (2001 est.)
Death Rate 6.29 deaths/1,000 population (2001 est.)
Population by Region
     
Region:
Male:
Female:
Total:

Nwu
27,523
25,191
52,714
     
Region:
Male:
Female:
Total:

Savaii
22,386
20,438
42,824
     
Region:
Male:
Female:
Total:

Rou
22,384
20,090
42,474
     
Region:
Male:
Female:
Total:

Aua
19,837
18,999
38,836