There is no denying that life in Samoa is not the same as it used to be.  

With all the changes, it feels like Samoa is a different country today.

And with the changes come the challenges.

For Pelenaā Toga from the villages of Faga Savai’I and Nu’u Fou, he believes people need to adapt to survive. 

The 53-year-old father said not all changes are good and he is particularly concerned about the rising crime statistics.

 “We have so many crimes nowadays and people keep pointing the finger to each other. This is not the way forward.

“We need to do our part, knuckle down and work hard.”

He also believes the government has a major role to play.

For example, he said they should provide assistance to local people instead of giving money to foreigners. He said he was aware of the concerns about the S.N.P.F money being lent to foreigners.

 “I don’t want to just sit and shut -up because the fact is; this is something that we need to look at,” he said. 

“To tell you the truth, I’m very disappointed. 

“People can’t just walk away with our money? What in the world is that?   

 “What’s wrong with the people of Samoa?” 

Pelena said he struggles to get a loan from the S.N.P.F most times.

“And yet they give these millions to people who are not Samoans? This is not right.

 “Samoa is a country founded on God yet we have all these issues in our society. That wasn’t the case before. We need to stop these things from happening.”

He said the government has got to have a heart for the people.

And the S.N.P.F should prioritise Samoans.

 “Most people think that their money is safe but to tell you the truth it’s not,” he said. “Knowing that people loan from our money, the Prime Minister should look into this. 

 “He should put a stop to it. We won’t be at peace knowing that our own money is being loaned to some businessmen from overseas.” 

Lastly, as a dedicated Christian, Pelenaā believes God is the true answer to all problems.   

“I truly believe that these issues happen because of the lack of spirituality in our lives. If our country is truly founded on God, then why do we have all these issues?  

“Most people now depend on themselves and rely on their own strength to do things instead on depending on God to be at the forefront of our lives.”