The Samoa Hotel Association (S.H.A.) has amended its constitution to include non-hotel operators in its membership and hopes to capitalise on its expanded network to grow tourism in Samoa.

The non-government organisation, which was previously known by the public through its acronym S.H.A., has also changed its name to the Samoa Hotel and Hospitality Association (S.H.H.A.). The new changes were approved and passed during their December member’s meeting last year.

The President of S.H.H.A., Tupa’i Saleimoa Vaai, revealed that the move has been a long-time coming and added that it is important for the industry to adapt by taking a more inclusive approach in working together towards achieving its objectives, given the current state of tourism and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Samoa. 

“We want to be a voice for the tourism sector not just the hotels” Tupai said in a statement. “From a holistic point of view, if we want to lift the standards of the industry, we must also look at assisting non-hotel operators.

“If you stay in a hotel and receive fine service and then find that tour operators or attraction sites are not up to the same standard, it will affect the visitor experience and reflect on the whole industry.” 

Furthermore, Tupa’i said with their membership now including non-hotel operators, they can now effectively collaborate and resolve issues together.

In addition, the President of S.H.H.A. said the amendments and restructure gives a voice to non-hotel operators who can contribute to the discussions and become part of the solution.

"We are giving other tourism operators a voice and considering their feedback on what’s needed to improve or support tourism," Tupa’i said.

“More importantly, when we speak to Government as an association on matters that affect our industry we will be speaking in the true voice of the whole tourism sector.”

Tupai also revealed that they are gearing up for their annual general meeting, which will bring all constitutional changes into effect, including the organisation’s structure to include non-hotel operators on the council. 

“With the organisation officially changing its name and being inclusive, we have now created the pathway for S.H.H.A. to move towards a new vision through a new strategic plan that will truly reflect the interests of the industry.”

He also spoke on behalf of S.H.H.A. and encouraged all business operators who consider themselves part of the sector to join the association and let their voice be heard. 

“Let’s help Samoa build a better tourism product together.”