Even a can of elegi is too expensive

By Fetalai Tuilulu’u 19 April 2017, 12:00AM

Even a can of tinned fish is expensive.

So says Silupe Mataafa of Fusi Saoluafata. He is a man dedicated to help his sister care for the family. 

The 53-year-old says the greatest happiness is being able to help someone who is worth your time and energy and that is family. 

“I tell you everything is so expensive these days,” he said. 

“Even a can of elegi is unaffordable sometimes.”

Silupe said he is thankful that in Samoa, the family and values is alive and well.

“An important part of living a happy and fulfilling life includes being part of a family where you can share, help and support people you care about,” he said.

“Without that network, I think Samoa would be a very sad place to live in.”

 “True happiness is when you put your family first and the rest later.  For me, my family is my very first priority in life and I will do whatever it takes to help them.”

Silupe says the government needs to reconsider the cost of goods, especially food items.

“To be honest the hardest thing is the cost of goods at the shops.”  

 “I know this is one thing that is making life hard for a lot of people in our country.” 

“Most of us are struggling trying to budget the little money that we have to take care of our families. I know there are some families who are not going through the same, but I know there is struggle and hardship in Samoa for most people.” 

 “My only hope is for the government to help us out, by reconsidering the cost of living.”

Aside from that, Silupe is happy about life.

 “We live together here because my sister wants me to help her husband with our plantation while she goes to work,” he said.

“Right now we have a plantation for our basic need because the truth is, what my sister’s earning goes straight to water bills, electricity and other expenses.”

When he has the time, Silupe goes fishing. 

 “It’s mostly for our food,” he said. “The way I see things, whenever you try to take care of your family there will always be struggles but we must always give it our all.”

By Fetalai Tuilulu’u 19 April 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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