The financial demands of the life we live in today is a struggle. 

And having one breadwinner in the family is not enough. 

Se’iloa Mata’u knows this very well because of his measly earnings, he has had to stuggle to cater for his family, church and village obligations. 

The 41-year-old from the village of Falelauniu says life becomes harder when you’re the only source of income for your family.

Mr. Mata’u says life in Samoa these days is not that easy anymore, especially with the expensive and unaffordable cost of living.

“Life is extremely difficult nowadays and there’s nothing to hide about that, we all know that things are getting expensive here in Samoa,” Mr. Mata’u said. 

“I am the only person who works and supports our family.

“So life is very difficult because we also don’t earn that much from my work.

“Our salaries cannot match the prices of the goods we need daily.” 

Mr. Mata’u was on his way to the shop when the Village Voice team met him.

“In Samoa, we have to support our family and give for family obligations like funerals, weddings etc.,” he said. 

“Apart from our families, we also have to support our churches and pay our bills.

“Life is not that simple anymore because things are getting expensive and our jobs are not paying us good money,” he said. 

Mr. Mata’u only dreams of having a farm.

“I just wished, our family had land, so this way we can build a house and have a farm and we’ll be set. 

“For us, we are pretty much relying on the shops for food and that is just too much expenses.”

Mr. Mata’u beleives that every household should have more than two people working to support their family.

Due to the high cost of living and the numerous obligaitons, it is better to have two people working steady jobs. 

“Having one person to work and earn money to support the family is never enough,” he said.