Manono conference center ready to host SIDS meetings

 

By Tupuola Terry Tavita

All venues for the United Nations Conference on Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) at the Tuanaimato Sports complex were blessed Monday afternoon in a short ceremony.

“All venues are just about ready for the big conference,” said Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.

“Workmen are now finishing off small details. Our government officials have been working closely with UN officials through site visits and internet conferencing , All facilities now meet UN requirements.

“This ceremony is important because we have to bless these venues to ensure that the conference runs smoothly and everyone is safe.” The Prime Minister thanked everyone involved in the preparations and reflected on the benefits of a conference, of this magnitude, to the country.

“There are multiple spinoffs to the country. In terms of gaining the necessary experience in getting the technical groundwork done for such a big gathering, the catering, the hosting and the problem-solving skills the managers acquired in meeting new challenges and overcoming the hurdles.

“Other benefits include a needed shot in the arm for our tourism sector and expected foreign investment to Samoa following this conference.

“Some 3000 delegates are coming to this meeting. From presidents, prime ministers and ministers to NGOs, lobbyists and the  media. The next hurdle is to ensure the conference runs smoothly. The onus will be on liaison officers, ushers, security, drivers and everyone involved to do their small task to the best of their abilities. Be patient and hospitable to our guests, make sure they are served well and they have a good time. This is the age of broadband internet and one little slip up and all this hard work could be undone. Everybody is connected on social media and the whole world will know about anything within the hour. We need everyone to behave like angels.”

Prime Minister Tuilaepa and the 300 guests who attended the meeting this afternoon then proceeded on an inspection of all facilities.

A ceremony will be held on the 31 August where the facilities will be officially handed over to the United Nations. Another ceremony will be held on 4 September where the United Nations flag will officially be lowered and the facilities handed back to the WSamoan government.

Share This

About the author