The village of Letui on the big island of Savai'i has definitely ended this year on a high note with a Talomua Festival on Wednesday morning. 

The downpour in the early hours of the morning did not dampen the spirits of the villagers who were so eager to showcase the fruits of their hard work all throughout this year during the festival. 

The village was divided into the different families within the village and were asked to set up their own stalls showcasing their produces which ranges from crops, animals, handicrafts and gardening. 

Reverend Isaako Sefo of the Congregational Christian Church Samoa (C.C.C.S.) at Letui in Savai'i was the mastermind behind the festival and also organised a youth competition to coincide with the festival. 

Said Reverend Isaako, encouraging the youth to work the land is like an investment. 

He is a strong believer that if the youth of today are taught about the importance of hard work and depending on "your own hands to survive without relying on others" we will not have to worry about the future. 

While acknowledging that working the land and sea is no walk in the park, Reverend Isaako reminded the gathering that nothing in this life comes easily. 

"You have to work in order to achieve something," he said. 

"You can't just sit around and wait for blessings to come to you."

Nevertheless, Reverend Isaako also highlighted that encouraging the youths who are unemployed to work the land is one of the ways in nurturing the spiritual sides of the children. 

While also acknowledging the fruits of the village's hard work that were on display on Wednesday morning, Reverend Isaako reminded the gathering to be humble and give thanks to "He who made it happen for Letui."

"I came out earlier today, and saw the variety of fruits and crops set up here for the festival," Reverend Isaako said. 

"I was not amazed by your hard work. However, I was amazed and overwhelmed because of what God has done for this village. Look at all of these blessings. And for that, we must all come together and give thanks to our Lord for all that he has done for us.

"We must also credit him for the strength, the wisdom and for pushing us to do this and to continue working hard for ourselves. The devil can strike anytime and discourage you to work which will lead to hunger. 

"But that's a reminder for all of us here today. Make good use of God's gift for us; make good use of the strength we have now and we will never have to worry about tomorrow and the future."

The Minister of Agriculture, La'auli Leuatea Schmidt who is also the Member of Parliament for the constituency of Gagaifomauga No.3. was the guest speaker. 

He commended Reverend Isaako and his wife Venice Sefo for the initiative and leading the way as they also participated in the festival on Wednesday. 

He also spoke on behalf of the Government and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries to thank the village of Letui for supporting the initiative and acknowledged them for their hard work all throughout the year. 

In saying that, La'auli reminded the gathering about the significance of the changes made by the current government to revive Talomua festivals. 

Said La'auli, the idea is to encourage the local farmers to continue working hard for their families and villages. 

One of the changes made by the government was overhauling national agricultural exhibitions, replacing it with local Talomua Festivals.

"Before, we used to have one agriculture show for Savai'i and one for Upolu. Sometimes just one for the two islands. The usual procedure was that they pick only the best from all across the island to display their work at the main venue. 

"Some farmers had to travel from a great distance to take his produces to town. But that will not be the case anymore, and that is why we are here today. 

"This is a way to encourage every farmers to work the land as their work will be displayed and acknowledged. This will also give people the opportunity to put the work of their hands on display and give our community the opportunity to come and have a look and can also buy from them."

La'auli also reminded the gathering that the government's priority is "agriculture."

"Yes, it is indeed labour intensive, but what you get from that hard work is sweet and rewarding. We are reaping the fruits of the work and struggles of our ancestors who have passed on. 

"And we must keep in mind that the work that we do today and what you invest in today, will benefit your children and our children in the future.

"So on behalf of the government and the Ministry, we commend you for all of your hard work this year. Continue to strive for the best and keep working hard. 

"Do things with a a good heart without complaining or minding what other people say; just work. 

"You will reap the fruits of your hard work in the future."

The judges for the Festival and Youth competition are Reverend Piula Pula and Clarke Stowers (Theological College teacher). 

The festival started off with a float parade in the early hours of Wednesday. 

It was well-attended by Associate Ministers, Cabinet Ministers and members of the public.