The Samoan Heritage Festival opened Saturday at Keehi Lagoon Park with a parade, ava ceremony, speeches, entertainment and sports.
The festival, which is designed to instill an appreciation of the Samoan culture and heritage among Samoans living in Hawaii, attracted youth groups, church organizations, Samoans and other Pacific islanders in the 50th state. 
ASG leaders attending includes Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga, House Speaker Savali Talavou Ale and several representatives and Secretary of Samoan Affairs Mauga Tasi Asuega. A representative of Hawaii Governor Josh Green, a cabinet minister from Tokelau, leaders of Samoan churches and organizations were also present.
Samoa Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa was the keynote speaker. She offered congratulations to Governor Green for hosting a successful Pacific Arts Festival, and lauded Governor Lemanu and the American Samoa Government for helping instill pride in the Samoan culture and heritage among Samoans living in Hawaii.
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The PM presented a fine mat to Governor Lemanu to commemorate Samoa’s attendance at Samoan Heritage week and also gifted Siapo pieces to Rev. Koneferenisi Nuusa who offered the prayers, Governor Green’s representative and the Minister from Tokelau.
The delegation from Tokelau also presented gifts to Governor Lemanu and Prime Minister Fiame.
Two members from American Samoa were sworn in to the Hawaii National Guard during the festivities on Saturday.
There was also an ava ceremony, entertainment and cultural games.
A church service was held yesterday at the CCCAS Kanana-fou CCCS in Kunia and the festivities continue today and tomorrow at Keehi Lagoon Park.
Photos: ASG
