Olosega County


Olosega County is a county in the Manu'a District in American Samoa. It comprises the eastern half of the twin islands of Ofu-Olosega. It includes the villages of Olosega and Sili, and was home to roughly 147 residents in 2020. The topography is characterized by volcanic terrain, and coral reefs in the surrounding seas with diverse aquatic life.

Geography

Olosega is a county in the Manu'a District in American Samoa. It comprises the eastern half of the twin islands of Ofu-Olosega, and includes the villages of Olosega and Sili. The twin islands are located approximately east of Tutuila, the largest island of American Samoa. Olosega County has existed since 1930, when Luanuu County was split to create separate counties of Ofu and Olosega. Olosega County is part of the Manu‘a senatorial district, represented collectively by Manu‘a senators.
The name Olosega, is derived from the Samoan language and translates as "Fortress of Parakeets". The islands were formed by the activity of shield volcanoes. The topography consists of steep volcanic slopes with covered with tropical forest, and coral reefs in the surrounding seas.

Demographics

Olosega County was first recorded with a population of 438 individuals in the 1930 U.S. Census. The population reached its maximum in 1950 with 545 residents and has since declined to just 147 residents as of 2020. Subsistence farming and fishing are prevalent in the region. The population is predominantly Samoan-speaking, with strong family and village ties.

Transportation

A pedestrian bridge linked Olosega to Ofu across the Asaga Strait, replaced by vehicular bridge since 1970. Occasional inter-island flights between Manu‘a and Tutuila and further boat services provide connectivity to the region.