The daughter of Samoa's first Prime Minister after independence, Fiame Naomi Mata'afa, says her father believed in bringing in change gradually to make sure all the people understood what was involved.
Big celebrations began in Apia today to mark fifty years since Samoa gained independence from New Zealand.
Fiame Naomi Mata'afa, who is also the Justice Minister, said her Father would have been pleased Samoa has developed steadily:
"Probably thankful we've survived the 50 years and being able to retain stability. We see around the region spots of instability. So I think that is something he would have appreciated."
Samoa will celebrate the 50 years of independence until Tuesday
