The Savai’i Samoa Tourism Association (S.S.T.A) is serious about luring tourists to the big island.
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So much so it has launched a three-year Strategic Plan as part of efforts to attract more visitors to the island.
The plan was launched by the Acting Prime Minister, Tuitama Dr. Talalelei Tuitama, at the Samoa Tourism Authority compound on Monday night.
Father Benjamin Tapelu kicked off the formalities with a prayer service.
In his keynote address, Tuitama congratulated the Savai’i Samoa Tourism Association for the initiative and vision to plan ahead.
“It is very pleasing to see that after five years, the Savai’i Samoa Tourism Association has developed its Strategic plan for the next three years from 2015 to 2017 with a strong focus and emphasis to improve Savai’i Destination,” said the Acting Prime Minister.
“The work and commitment of S.S.T.A to assist in improving our Tourism and Hospitality industry is commendable and the government wishes the Savai’i Association, its members and the industry much success.”
Former President, Mapusua Sesilia Schwalger, shared her excitement about the future of tourism in Savai’i.
Noting that the tourism industry is growing in Savai’i, Mapusua said the association’s aim is to get more visitors to experience the big island. She added that some tourists don’t really know that Samoa has another beautiful island.
She also spoke about the challenges.
These included transportation issues. At the Maota Airport for instance, a flight cannot land there at night because of lighting issues.
Mapusua acknowledged the service provided by the Samoa Shipping Cooperation but said there is always room for improvement.
The Savai'i Samoa Tourism Association was established in April 2010 as a Non Government Organization to be the united voice of the hospitality and tourism industry on Savai’i.
The Association consists of 42 members, with the majority of members being accommodation providers. Other members include tour and transport operators, natural site operators and operators of tourism activities.
The S.S.T.A's vision is to ensure Savai’i is recognised as an important part of Samoa’s tourism sector and is assisted in its future development with a mission to promote and improve the growth of businesses and tourist experiences in Savaii.
The S.S.T.A acknowledges the support of New Zealand through the Samoa Tourism Support Programme. The Association also thanked the government and the Samoa Tourism Authority for their ongoing support.
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