CHOGM Peninsula Road to open partly but no details yet

By Lise Schmidt/

Apia, Samoa – 04 October 2024 – The CHOGM Task Force Committee has opted to partially open the peninsula road during the upcoming CHOGM.

The Minister of Works and Infrastructure, Olo Fti Vaai who suggested a more balanced approach to the road access to the free flow of traffic and the economic impact to businesses along the road, said the road will be partly closed during the meeting.

CEO of the Land Transport Authority that is in charge of the public roads, Sagauga Lani Galuvao, said many have voiced their concerns about the impact of the proposed road closure on their daily business operations.

The local business owners and residents are worried the impact of the road closures on their livelihoods and mobility during the summit.

Owen Iese, supervisor of the Tokouso Matautu Branch, articulated the financial strain the new measures could inflict on local businesses.

“The police came and asked us to register all our workers, and only one vehicle can be registered for business use,” he explained. He explained that while they have access passes, clients would be unable to reach them, resulting in potential income loss. “Our business relies heavily on direct client interaction,” he said.

Iese suggested that delegates attending CHOGM may want to visit and use their services. “If it could be done, it would not only help sustain operations but also promote these establishments to overseas visitors,” he said.

Muliagatele Tagaloa Vaalotu of the Taumeasina Taxi Services explained over 30 taxis have registered to operate under compliance with the police regulations during the meeting.

“I support the decision for the safety of the overseas delegates,” he stated.

Conversely, Tuu’u Seupule raised concerns about limiting the citizens’ rights to move freely.

“Having limited access will affect the people’s right to move around freely,” he acknowledged, yet he understood the measures’ are important for facilitating smooth traffic during CHOGM.

Local vendors like 76-year-old Siafuafu Nafatali and Lautaimi Lelua of Vaiala shared their frustrations over potential road closures affecting their sales.

“I did not know that this road would be closed and never heard about a meeting,” Nafatali said and urged the Task Force Committee to reconsider their decision.