In a significant shift, Samoa's Cabinet has approved revisions to the traditional Independence Day festivities, opting to scale down annual activities while reserving grand celebrations for milestone years. 

This decision, announced by the Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (M.P.M.C.) and Secretary to Cabinet Agafili Shem Leo and Tanuvasa Petone Mauga, members of the Independence Committee, marks a pivotal moment in the nation's commemorative calendar.

Agafili said the alterations, detailing plans to streamline commemorations for the 62nd, 63rd, and 64th Independence Day events. 

These scaled-back observances will encompass essential elements such as a Thanksgiving service, government-led ceremony, flag hoisting, and Independence Day parade. 

However, the government has reserved a grand spectacle for the 65th Independence celebration, promising a revival of traditional festivities, including cultural performances, fautasi regatta, and other events.

Explaining the rationale behind the restructuring, Agafili emphasised the intention to institute special commemorations every five years, diverging from the monotony of annual routines. 

Addressing speculations regarding financial constraints, Agafili dismissed such concerns, citing a consistent allocation of $200,000 earmarked annually for Independence Day commemorations. 

He clarified that while this budget remains unchanged, deviations are only anticipated for extraordinary celebrations akin to the elaborate festivities witnessed during Samoa's 60th Independence jubilee spanning an entire year.

Despite the changes, Agafili underscored the autonomy of Samoa's districts to host localised festivities, ensuring nationwide engagement in the Independence Day fervor. 

Stressing the enduring significance of the celebration, he reassured that the essence and importance of Samoa's Independence Day remain unaltered, resonating with Samoans both near and far.

Offering a glimpse into this year's program, Agafili unveiled plans for a thanksgiving service scheduled for Sunday evening, 2 June, at Mulivai Cathedral, presided over by the National Council of Churches. 

Subsequently, on Monday, the customary Independence ceremony, under government auspices, will unfold at Malae o Tiafau in Mulinu'u, featuring the iconic raising of the national flag and the traditional Independence Day parade, culminating in closing remarks delivered by Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa.

Agafili disclosed that the decision to overhaul Independence Day celebrations stemmed from extensive deliberations between the Cabinet and the Independence Committee, marking the fruition of a long-gestating initiative. 

This strategic shift aims to infuse novelty into Samoa's commemorative landscape, offering anticipation and excitement for forthcoming milestone celebrations.