Savai’i, Samoa was the center of attention as the year long celebration of the 60 years of Independence for Samoa moved to its shores, with the first ever official flag raising ceremony on the big island. This was held at the Don Bosco Technical Institute grounds at Salelologa yesterday.
Joining Samoa’s Head of State and member of the Council of Deputies was the Governor General of New Zealand, Dame Cindy Ciro, who travelled to Samoa for the Independence celebrations.
Members of Cabinet, parliamentarians, government heads of ministries and invited dignitaries also attended the ceremony.
The event also continued the commemoration of the Treaty of Friendship between Samoa and New Zealand, sixty years ago.
In her address, Prime Minister Fiame Naomi said, that in keeping with the first ever flag raising ceremony in Savaii, the Cabinet had also decided to meet for the first time on the island.
“This is a new beginning in moving into the future,” she said.
The Prime Minister said that on this “momentous occasion, we remember the sacrifices of our forefathers that laid the foundation of our Independence in 1962.”
“We are indeed grateful for this milestone in our history to come together, to celebrate 60 years of independence with our people, families and friends in Savaii.”
“Hosting in Savaii mirrors the objective of this year-long celebration and that is to encourage people’s participation and community engagement in activities planned for our Independence anniversary,” said Fiame.
The PM reflected on Samoa’s journey to independence and paid tribute to those who fought for freedom.
“We have traversed the rough seas and turbulence, as well as sailed the crests of our successes through our 60 year journey. We should never forget the tenacity, the visionary legacy, drive and forbearance of our forefathers as well as past and present leaders to build Samoa to what it is today, with the Lord’s guidance and wisdom.”
The program at Salelologa included a parade, police band entertainment and pese and siva by groups from around Savaii.
