The 2024 Teuila Festival in Samoa is seeing changes this year due to budget constraints imposed by the government in preparation for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). 

The festival known for its vibrant cultural performances and traditional games has adapted to the reduced funding with a modified schedule and environmental initiatives.

According to the Samoa Tourism Authority (STA) CEO Toleafoa Pativaine Petaia-Tevita, the possibility of cancelling the occasion was considered, but the manageable budget allowed for adjustments. 

Last year's Teuila Festival reportedly incurred expenses of SAT$300,000 or less whereas this year's budget is limited to SAT$70,000.

"There were considerations around putting Teuila aside if there was not enough budget because there were other works that were priorities. But as you can see, the Government has still allocated the budget so that the festival can carry on," said Toleafoa.

Notable alterations to the festival schedule include postponing the opening ceremony from Sunday to Monday, with the event featuring only one Samoan performance on Wednesday.

"For this year, with the absence of our choir competition, we're moving our opening ceremony to Monday morning. It will be officially opened with key remarks by the Honourable Prime Minister," said the chairman of the Teuila committee, Niumata Kitiona Pogi. 

"Don Bosco School will be performing  That will be the only activity for that morning. Our stores will also be open during the day, from Monday," added Niumata.

 Additionally, the traditional daily activities and lunchtime entertainment have been eliminated this year due to budget constraints. 

Under the 2024 Teuila theme of "Enrich our environment, embrace our culture," the organisers strive to make the festival a plastic-free event. 

"Our stalls will not be selling any plastic water bottles or anything plastic, we will encourage the use of zero plastic for the week of the festival," said Niumata.

Plans include placing around 20 refill stations around the Matagialalua Friendship Park to enable attendees to refill their water bottles. However, the presence of vendors selling cold drinks in plastic bottles poses a challenge to the initiative.

Despite the budget cuts, the cultural show and food stores will remain important features throughout the week, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the Samoan traditions and cuisine.