2 November 2010: The World Bank approved a Post-Tsunami Reconstruction Project to support the reconstruction of infrastructure in Samoa following the tsunami that hit the country in September 2009.

The tsunami caused an estimated US$124 million worth of damage and loss to Samoa. Around 5,274 people lost their homes, with many families forced to relocate inland. Critical infrastructure was also hit hard, with coastal roads and sea walls badly damaged. The Bank’s project, totaling US$11.8 million, will support the relocation and rehabilitation of affected communities on the island of Upolu by providing new access roads and rebuilding damaged roads and sea walls.

The project will be financed by a US$10 million International Development Association concessional loan and a US$1.8 million Pacific Regional Infrastructure Facility grant. [World Bank Press Release, Project Information]