The Government of Samoa will launch its annual week of prayer and fasting on Sunday, 7 January 2024 with the annual religious event becoming the first official programme for the new year.

The week of fasting and prayer is an annual event by the Government to seek God’s protection upon Samoa over the next 12 months.

The launching of the programme on Sunday evening will be held at the Prayer House at Palisi and will be attended by church leaders and Government officials. 

The announcement was made by the Prime Minister and was published by the Government newspaper, Savali on their official website.

The annual prayer service will conclude on Friday next week. 

Prime Minister Fiame urged church leaders and the entire country for their continuous support in coming together to uplift the countries in prayers. 

According to Fiame, this year marks 33 years since the inception of the annual prayer and fasting for Samoa. 

It started in 1990 when cyclone Ofa struck during Tofilau Eti Alesana's administration.

She also spoke about the significance of prayers and fasting together as a nation. 

Fiame also highlighted that the Faatuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (F.A.S.T.) government continues to do fasting every week and wants to continue on this great initiative. 

The aim is that to request God’s protection upon Samoa as the country goes through the cyclone season.

Samoa has been safe during the festive season with Christmas and New Year’s over and done without any cyclones affecting the country except for heavy rainfall.