Solution to the cost of living

By Ulimasao Fata 12 December 2017, 12:00AM

If life is tough, you have to be tougher.

And for people who don’t have formal jobs, that means doing more with fertile land that is available in Samoa.

So says Taulamago Simone, 48, from the village of Leauva’a. 

Mr. Simonei is a father of five children. He admits that he is among many people who are struggling with the cost of living but nothing will change if he just complains about it.

“The cost of living here in Samoa as we know is really expensive, and the only way I can say to cope with it is going back and work our plantation,” he said.

“One thing I know that is contributing to the high cost of living here in Samoa is because we tend to import so many goods from overseas and that is why it’s expensive.

“Even though the Chinese businesses are here on our shores, I don’t see any difference that much with their prices and the local businesses here now.”

Mr. Simone said three of his children are already working while the other two are in School.

 “So they provide money while I provide food from the plantation because Samoa today is all about money.”

Mr. Simone also mentioned why we need money even though we have food from our plantation.

“Money is for everything here in Samoa, and that’s the truth.

“Even though we have three people working, but I tell you that when a family obligation like funeral is in the same time kid’s school fees deadline, things will not be the same.

“Money is needed for so much stuff, paying the bills, family obligations, supporting church as well as village council’s items.”

Mr. Simone also added that this is why it’s good to go back to the plantation and work.

“Not only the plantation will be able to help in food and money, but it will get you out of the pressure from struggling to find money.”

By Ulimasao Fata 12 December 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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