Thousands of people began gathering as early as 2 am on Monday, 1 June, to mark Samoa’s 64th Independence anniversary in a large national celebration featuring marching groups from more than 40 schools across Upolu and Savai’i, overseas supporters, churches, businesses, ministries, and community organisations.

The event saw participation from schools, including a school from Auckland, New Zealand, along with churches, businesses, government ministries, the FESA Red Cross Society, the Malofie group, and former students from various schools joining the marches and all other groups from Samoa and overseas.

During the celebration, Head of State Tuimalealiʻifano Vaʻaletoʻa Sualauvi II delivered a speech highlighting gratitude, unity, and faith.

“As we raise our praises and thanksgiving to Almighty God, we gather today with joy to celebrate the 64th anniversary of our Independence. Let us move forward and preserve this day, for it is a day that should be proclaimed loudly and filled with gratitude and praise to God.”

He reminded the nation of the importance of remembering history, ancestors, and leaders who fought for independence. He emphasized unity under this year’s theme, “Samoa is One for a New Beginning.”

“This is also a day to strengthen our unity as villages, families, and communities,” he said, referencing the biblical message, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell together in unity.”

He stressed that unity is essential to holding the nation together, describing it as a strength for villages, churches, and communities, and urged continued respect, understanding, love, honour, and peace among the people.

The Head of State also noted the role of young people in shaping the future of the nation, calling them the carriers of Samoa’s hopes and development.

He extended appreciation to church leaders, the Prime Minister and the cabinet, parliament, the judiciary, government ministries, businesses, village councils, and communities across the country for their service and contributions.

Acknowledgement was also given to overseas Samoans, friendly nations, and development partners for their continued support.

He concluded by urging continued faith and unity, quoting Jesus Christ: “Love one another,” and declared blessings upon the nation for its 64th Independence anniversary.