Samoa's year-long 60th Independence celebration has officially come to an end with the Prime Minister expressing her gratitude to everyone in Samoa for part-taking and supporting the government's initiative. 

The auspicious event commenced with a special service officiated by the Chairman of the Congregational Christian Church Samoa's Elder's Committee, Reverend Elder Asotasi Gu Time.

In addressing the guests and members of the public who assembled at Tiafau on Wednesday evening, Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa described the year-long festivities as a great success. 

Fiame articulated that there have been a lot of "firsts" for Samoa throughout the celebrations for the country's 60th Independence anniversary which began on 1 June, 2022. 

Not only because it was the first time the country has ever commemorated its independence for an entire year, but the celebrations also saw the first-ever national Independence Day celebration to be held on the big island of Savai'i. 

Fiame also made reference to the launching of the historical $60 tala commemorative banknote as one of the highlights of the year-long festivities. 

The festivities also saw the revival of Samoa's fautasi regatta and the government's most esteemed event, the Honours and Awards Ceremony. 

Fiame also used the opportunity to commend the effort from all the constituencies across the country who have supported the initiative by hosting their own first harvests and independence celebration right throughout the year. 

The different cultural performances and programmes showcased throughout the year, according to Fiame, reflected the theme of the year-long celebration which was "To sail with faith". 

It also showed the patriotism and pride of the people of Samoa for their culture and people, said Fiame. 

The choirs from the two main theological colleges in Samoa, Malua Theological College and Piula Theological College were invited the sing the hymns for the closing ceremony. 

Police bands also provided entertainment towards the end of the ceremony. 

The event was attended by Government Leaders, Leaders of Pacific Island countries, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, government officials, members of the public, and visiting families and friends.