26 Mar 2012

Private sector funding sought for Samoa Independence celebrations

3:42 pm on 26 March 2012

One of the chairs of the committee organising Samoa's Independence celebrations says it's asking the private sector to help cover the event's costs.

January the first marked 50 years since Samoa became independent from New Zealand but the occasion is always celebrated on June the first.

This year the leaders of several other Pacific countries will be attending the celebrations, which will span six days and involve a range of cultural activities, including a concert by the British band UB40.

Tolofuaivalelei Leiataua says the celebrations are likely to cost more than two million US dollars.

"We are seeking assistance from the private sector community, the private businesses but we're also asking the corporations and boards and authorities under the auspices of the government to assist."

Tolofuaivalelei Leiataua says the government will cover the remaining costs.