The bad weather last Friday did not dampen the enthusiasm of members of the Businesses of Salafai (B.O.S.A.) from attending a workshop conducted at Vaisala Hotel in the evening. 

The training was spearheaded by B.O.S.A’s consultant, Donald Leumaga, to put final touches to its Strategic Plan 2017-2021.

The plan which aims to provide strategic leadership in developing a robust business sector in Savai’i is to be launched on 31 March 2017.

The workshop was well attended by B.O.S.A’s members from throughout the big island of Savaii. Members took along their spouses and children as part of their networking within the association and to ensure that B.O.S.A will have another generation of members ready and informed to take over the helm. 

It was also an encouragement to strengthen family ties and family owned businesses. 

Also raised during this workshop were concerns and frustrations at the sudden influx of Chinese owned businesses opening up in Savai’i recently, particularly in the Salelologa area. 

These same concerns and frustrations are shared by the high chiefs and orators of Salelologa.

Last week, they initiated a ban on Chinese entrepreneurs from setting up businesses in the village to protect small family shops and businesses, which have served Salelologa for generations. 

B.O.S.A was incorporated in 2011 and has an active Board of Directors who manages the operation of the organisation on a voluntary basis. It has a membership to date of eighty plus.