People who had been able to rely on small-scale agriculture for a living in the past are now needing to get employment to support their families as the cost of living continues to increase.

Such is the story of Paogo Toma Uia. At the age of 64 years, he left his wife and 14-year-old daughter at home in Tiavea-uta, 61 kilometres away, to get employment as a security officer.

Farming and selling taro and other products were just not enough to put food on the table and meet other expenses of the family.

"I've been in the vending business for as long as I can remember, Monday to Friday, sometimes only the weekend selling taro at the market to make a living and to provide for my family," he said.

"But to earn a proper income from selling crops is not the same as it used to be, so I made my way to Apia to find a job just to provide for my loved ones since the plantation income is seasonal." 

It has not been easy to make the change. Life in the rural area meant that Mr. Uia could work according to his time and be with his family as much as he wanted.

"I miss my family every day, my wife and daughter, but it motivates me and brings me back to my youth having to provide for them and stand in my role as a father."

When he was selling crops at the market, Mr. Uia would hitch a ride with someone from his village. As part of payment for the ride, he would load and unload the cargo and pay for the ride as well.

"It would take up half of what I earned, but we Samoans have to compensate any act of kindness," he said.

"It was one of the many reasons why I took up a job. It was just to make it easier and so I won't have to spend it on any form of transport because the bus is easier and cheaper."

He earns about less than $200  weekly at his new job and states that he looks forward to working hard so he can have a raise.

"Last week my wife and daughter travelled from Aleipata by bus to pick up my pay so they can provide for household necessities," he stated.

His limited classroom education has resulted in a very limited scope of employment opportunities. Being a security officer was one of the few opportunities that he has had. It was either doing this or being at home doing nothing.

He does not mind the work. It is long hours and tedious but his motivation is providing for his wife and child.

He said things were different when he was growing up. He said children have different needs now and he hopes that his hard work would result in his daughter getting a better education so she has the opportunities that he never had. 

"I've only been in this work for a month now, and I'm enjoying it at this age. I'm still learning, especially with hazards and the various types of people that I get to meet," he added.

Being security personnel also comes with times when there are dangers to the safety of not only what he is guarding but himself as well.

"One time, I had an encounter with drunks in front of a local bank in town. They were making a lot of noise and wouldn't leave the premises I was securing," he said.

"I warned them to leave the property and they didn't respond, luckily some citizens who were familiar with the troublemakers helped me by telling them to leave. They weren't going to hurt me or damage anything but communication was important at that time and I was trained to keep an open mind for situations like these."