The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (M.N.R.E.) opened the commemoration of Land and Soil week at Malaefatu, Sogi yesterday. 

Based on the theme “Sustainable Management of Land Degradation in Samoa: Sustain me to feed you”, the day started with an early morning float parade competition for farmers and schools.  

M.N.R.E. commemorates the week with particular emphasis on the importance of soil as a natural resource in supporting life and its physical ecological systems and services on earth.

Acting Prime Minister  Afamasaga Rico Tupa’i, said without soil, there is no land and without land, there is no life. 

“The earth is our birthright from God and that is why we have to take good care of our natural resources, not only for us now but for future generations. We depend greatly on our lands for growth," he said. 

“When we refer to the theme about sustaining our land management degradation in Samoa, we must put great importance on the right developments in sustaining our lands for future use,” he said.

Afamasaga added that this week raises awareness on the impacts on our physical environment from harmful overuse and misuse of lands.

It also puts great importance on economic wellbeing for our local villagers through natural resources, he said.   

A statement from M.N.R.E. said the request to involve primary and secondary schools is to bring onboard their commitment and collaboration by way of testing their already learned knowledge in schools.  

At the same time, it provides students with a platform to utilise and present their experiences and expertise in contributing through participation in the commemorative activities.  

It is the expectation of the Government that the five day commemoration will increase the awareness of the public in general on all land degradation and drought concerns (L.D.D.), the statement further said.       

The day was also filled with entertainment from the Methodist Church at Falelauniu, along with performances, skits, poems, songs and art display from primary and secondary schools, including farmers.

The activities continue.