The cleanliness and beautification of villages being done for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting should be happening all year round says a chief from Lalovi Mulifanua, Seva’aetasi Iakimo Sagatopoutele.

Seva’aetasi believes pride in having the cleanest and best-looking village should not be aroused from special events.

He said if this image could be maintained, it would be a good thing for the nation as it could boost tourism and ensure that Samoa is kept clean.

Like all villages, Lalovi Mulifanua has been given a host nation. They are hosting Guyana.

Guyana, a country on South America’s North Atlantic coast, is defined by its dense rainforest. English-speaking, with cricket and calypso music, it's culturally connected to the Caribbean region. Its capital, Georgetown, is known for British colonial architecture, including tall, painted-timber St. George’s Anglican Cathedral.  

“I'm hoping that the 56 countries attending the summit in October will have sufficient time to travel to the 56 villages receiving them,” Seva'aetasi said.

"We hope to welcome the Prime Minister and other Guyana government officials with an ava ceremony and photo opportunity.”

"We haven't requested anyone for any money for our preparations; instead, we have cleaned our village using items that we can afford and items found in our immediate surroundings.

"We fashioned the coconuts into the colours of the Samoan and Guyana flags."

The chief hopes that the nation will be able to host a successful CHOGM. He said this would only be possible if every person played their part to make it successful.

He said this was a great opportunity for the nation.

Only 18 days remain to the start of the CHOGM. The event starts on October 21.