Vodafone injects support for struggling Savai'i tourism

By Adel Fruean 11 October 2020, 5:00PM

Vodafone Samoa has offered its full support for the struggling tourism and hospitality industry on the big island of Savai'i.

It has done this through cash and in-kind sponsorships of multiple initiatives in Savai'i to lure visitors across and to take advantage of the White Sunday weekend. 

Last Friday, Amoa Resort kicked off the weekend with their White Night Event, a dinner buffet and live entertainment performed by Vodafone's  favorite local band; “The Poly Flavour”.

It was an atmosphere of happiness, laughter and dancing. 

In addition, the night got better when Vodafone's Chief Executive Officer, Nofoasaefa Satish Sharma declared a free unlimited Wifi for the entire evening for all to enjoy. 

The second event took place on Saturday whereby six accommodation providers (with the support from the [chief] Sa'o of Manase Village) grouped to host the first Vodafone Manase Beach Festival entirely supported by the telecommunication giant.

"Our local hotels, resorts and beach fale accommodations need help,” said Nofoasaefa.

He added that this was the reason behind why they did not hesitate to provide help by means of supporting their events.

“It is our way of injecting life back into our hospitality & tourism sector during these unprecedented times. Savai'i used to be bustling with tourists coming in from around the world. However due to COVID-19, things have significantly changed.

“[This is why] Vodafone came on board to provide the support [for] Savaii's hospitality and tourism needs. When we say ‘Always More’ in support towards our community, we mean it entirely." 

Ieti Sanerivi, owner of Tailua Beach Fales, said that the Vodafone Manase Beach Festival was a way to remind people that Manase is still the place to be.

“We are a village of entertainers; our people have talent ranging from string bands, dancers, fire dancers and a village who so strongly continues on cultural traditional cooking from the farm to the table.

“Our biggest appreciation extends to Vodafone for believing in Manase and coming on board as our naming sponsors. 

“Everyone enjoyed themselves and this was made successful because of your help, thank you Vodafone."   

The children from around Samoa, particularly Manase, who celebrated their White Sunday early by the help of Vodafone providing bouncy castles, face painting, games and prize giveaways.

The adults had a relaxing event with live entertainment from Poly Flavour, food stalls with local Samoan cuisines, local arts and crafts. The beach festival is guaranteed to be an annual event as declared by the chief of Manase Village. 

It has been six months since the global telecom giant Vodafone launched in Samoa and so far they have invested well over $400,000 tala worth of cash and in-kind support towards the community via sponsorships only, this does not include customer promotional offers.  

Nofoasaefa added that Vodafone Samoa provide its customers with better value for their dollar and network reliability.

“Now is the time to support Vodafone who in return always gives you more support within our communities, with more data and with more coverage."  

By Adel Fruean 11 October 2020, 5:00PM

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