60th Independence anniversary

Digicel Samoa presents sports apparel to sports clubs through its 'FREEDOM TO EXCEL' promotion

Digicel Samoa Chief Executive Officer, Seiuli Deepak Khanna said the promotion is also a part of the company’s community initiative to grow sports in the community.

“We called for expression of interests by various sporting teams and clubs because we understand that for any sporting club, uniform is an expense. It’s about being part of the celebration and a community initiative to grow the sport in the country,” he said.

The sports apparel is cutting-edge in design and fabric that makes it convenient for the players while on the field.

New Zealand Labour MP Anae Neru Leavasa reflects on Samoa's 60 years of independence

Anae's great-grandfather Tupua Tamasese Lealofi III was a leader of the Mau Movement of the 1920s, battling to break free from colonial rule.

Lealofi was shot on Black Saturday, 28 December 1929, when New Zealand military police fired on a peaceful demonstration in Apia. He died the next day.

His noteworthy final words were:

"My blood has been spilt for Samoa. I am proud to give it. Do not dream of avenging it as it was spilt in maintaining peace. If I die, peace must be maintained at any price."​

Samoa 60th Independence Anniversary ceremonial rehearsal held

Mata’afa was part of the flag raising and parade rehearsal.

The Ministry of Police and Prisons said the rehearsal was held at Mulinu'u.

There was a discharge of the cannon while the rehearsal took place.

The New Zealand Defence said, “The ceremonial saluting guns were first presented to Samoa by New Zealand in 1962 as an independent gift. They were manufactured in Portsmouth, England in 1892 and, due to their age, have required careful maintenance before each firing.”

Samoa prepares for 60th independence anniversary celebration

Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa said,” This will be the first time our independence will be celebrated throughout the whole of Samoa. The celebration programming and implementation will be at the discretion and guidance of the respective Council of Chiefs in each district to organise a thanksgiving service in the morning of Wednesday 1st of June. As usual, the 1st of June is a public holiday.”

Fiame said the programme has been designed to promote the spirit of participation and inclusiveness.

Samoa presents 60th Independence anniversary logo and theme

Deputy Prime Minister, Tuala Tevaga Ponifasio unveiled a banner in front of the government building which displays the logo and theme, “Folau ma el Faatuatua (sail with faith)” yesterday.

The selected logo of the digits “60” portrays significant historical events that shaped Samoa’s path to independence, its traditions, and its Christian values and beliefs as stipulated in its Constitution.

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