The 56th commemoration of Samoa’s independence will be remembered for a break from tradition which is being seen as a positive change.
Traditional gift giving at past celebrations have always been the traditional sua, which would carry either slaughtered cattle or pigs along with fine mats.
This yesr all that was replaced by gift hampers.
Newsline Samoa reorted an organising committee member saying government wanted to “walk the talk” and help keep the slaughter of cattle and pigs to a minimum to help grow national livestock numbers.
Last year there were no cattle but only pigs were used.
The committee member added that this new practice is good for overseas guests because they can take the gifts home as souvenirs.
Invited guests to the 56th Celebration were the Presidents of the Republic of Nauru and the Republic of Fiji, the Governor of American Samoa and the Titular Head of Tokelau.
