Samoan show a forum for talkback

• Published date: 04 November 2021
• Publication title: Star, The

OAR FM programme Fono Faufautua a Samoa i Otago Leitio is presented by local representatives of the council.

The weekly Samoan-language show includes talkback, guest interviews and music on topical themes.

Recent editions have included discussion about the mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on people here and in Samoa.

Radio show co-host Paia’aua Siitia said it was important to examine all issues from a Samoan cultural perspective.

‘‘When we come together as the Fono, it’s like we did it in our villages back home,’’ Mr Siitia said.

‘‘We have a meeting and discuss what’s happening in our community.

‘‘It’s good to inform our people, and to promote our way of living and our spirituality.

‘‘When we talk about something like COVID, we recognise how it is affecting the body, the mind and the soul, as we as the financial impacts.’’

Preservation of Samoan language and...