Following the earthquake that struck early Monday morning, 74-year-old Eti Sapolu issued a heartfelt message to the people of Samoa, calling for greater awareness and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

“My message to our people is simple: be aware and alert during times like this. Disasters are ahead of us,” Mr. Sapolu warned. 

“The earthquake that occurred this morning originated from within the land. It happens when two tectonic plates collide, which can lead to earthquakes and tsunamis. All the mountains we see in Samoa are volcanic in origin.”

Mr Sapolu, who works as a tour guide across Upolu and Savai’i, emphasised the importance of understanding the geological landscape of the country and listening to official warnings.

“We must understand the lands we live on and the places we move to. We must heed the warnings given by the authorities. Many of us tend to ignore them, just like what happened during the tsunami back in 2009," he said. 

"I particularly urge caution for those living on the southern side of Samoa, as there is a trench stretching from New Zealand to Tonga that passes through Savai’i and Upolu. When a collision occurs in that trench, major disasters can result.”

He stressed the need for knowledge and vigilance. “If we don’t understand these things, a tsunami can come in the blink of an eye, and it can take us all.”

Beyond disaster awareness, Mr Sapolu expressed deep love for Samoa and its natural beauty. “I love our lands because they are safe. That’s why I don’t support foreigners settling permanently in Samoa. Just look at Fiji, where many Indians, similar patterns are starting in Samoa, where the Chinese are starting to settle in as well. For me, I care about the safety and peace of our country.”

“Samoa is not a poor country,” he added. “You rarely hear of people dying of hunger here. We have our organic crops like papaya, and we have the sea, rich with fish. Samoa is truly a paradise.”

He concluded his message with a powerful reminder of Samoa’s spiritual foundation. “Just as a car comes with a manual, Samoa has its own guide—the Bible. This is what we follow, because our nation is founded on God. We are a Christian country, and we must not forget that.”