26 Jan 2016

Global appeal to help Samoa vendors after fire

7:36 am on 26 January 2016

A member of a global fundraising appeal to help vendors affected by a fleamarket fire in Samoa says it's great to see strong support for the cause.

Fire destroys Savalalo Market In Samoa capital Apia

The Savalalo Market Fundraising Appeal was launched last week after the market was totally destroyed by fire. Photo: Peta Siulepa

Apia's main fleamarket, the Savalalo market, which has been a strong contributor to Samoa's tourism industry, was burnt to the ground on January 18.

Edwin Puni, of the Savalalo Market Fundraising Appeal, which launched last week, says they hope to set up an export system to help vendors sell their items overseas.

Mr Puni says the government last week announced it would give around US$380 to all vendors in support.

"Our independent fundraising was actually also to signal to those in Samoa that they are not forgotten. So it's great to see the Samoa government (announced) now last friday, and now to hear that the Samoa Hotel Association has also launched something. I think that gives a lot of assurance to the local business

Fire at the flea market in Samoa's capital, Apia.

Fire at the flea market in Samoa's capital, Apia. Photo: Twitter/ kionafeni

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