Prime Minister Laʻaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt confirmed the government has allocated $5 million for the Independence Day celebrations, including $1 million from unforeseen funds and $4 million from the Ministry of Finance.

He said adjustments have been made to traditional events, including the fautasi race, which will now feature two heats instead of three, while prize money remains unchanged.

“The absence of American Samoa boats is not a concern, as it provides more opportunities for local fautasi crews to prepare,” he said, adding that savings from the reduced heats are being redirected into ongoing preparations.

Laʻaulialemalietoa also pointed to ongoing infrastructure works in Apia, including developments at Fale Samoa, the Mulinuʻu roundabout, and road upgrades near key government and media locations, describing them as part of national readiness efforts.

He said the Independence Day programme will run from May 29 to June 3, featuring more than 20 teams, a national parade, cultural performances, a church service, and concluding ceremonies. “The Independence Day report is almost complete and will be officially released next week,” he said.

Meanwhile, Minister of Revenue and committee member Pauga Talalelei Pauga said preparations are being coordinated through weekly committee meetings divided into 10 sections.

He said the committee is now in its second week of structured meetings and that planning is progressing smoothly.

Pauga confirmed that the full budget has been approved and released, removing earlier financial concerns. 

Pauga said all 17 sports in the Independence programme now have confirmed venues, including rugby, netball, boxing, volleyball, canoeing, and athletics, with events spread across Apia.

He said teams from Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and American Samoa are expected to participate, with strict financial reporting requirements in place for all sporting bodies after the events conclude.