2 Jun 2008

Samoa marks 46 years of independence

3:24 pm on 2 June 2008

Hundreds of guests are expected to attend Samoa's celebration of 46 years of independence.

Events begin with a special church service this evening at the Methodist church in Matafele in Apia to be followed by a variety of entertainment and activity in the next two days.

There will also be a flag raising ceremony, an address the head of state Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi, a longboat race, traditional entertainments, and a cocktail party.

Our correspondent, Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia, says the celebrations mark a milestone for the Head of State.

"This will be the first independence celebration with him officiating as our first head of state elected by parliament after the death of the Head Of State last year, Malietoa Tanumafili II, who was in office for life with the father of the current head of state, Tupua Tamasese Mae'ole."

Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia