Father cautions against dependency mentality

By Lizzy Hunt 03 August 2017, 12:00AM

Stay away from the dependency mentality.

So says Sefo Mateo, 40, of Mulifanua.

Although he has children working overseas, the father still works the plantation and fishes for survival everyday.

 “I have five children overseas who are working but I only reach out to them for help financially when it comes to family obligations or funerals,” he said.

Sefo farms during the day and goes out fishing at night. 

“At the moment, I am providing  for my wife, my sisters, brothers and my parents,” he said. 

“Whatever I get from fishing and the farm, I share with my family.” 

Sefo prefers working in his own village than anywhere else because he believes that it’s more comfortable. 

Besides, he prefers being his own boss so that way no one tells him what to do.

The fisherman and farmer is the 11th of 14 siblings. 

 “I still remember what my grandparents used to say to us,” he recalls. “They said ‘when you grow up, one of you must become a fisherman. 

“Of all my father’s children, I am the only fisherman. 

“Some of my brothers and sisters are working.”

Sefo enjoys working in the farm, going fishing and selling them to get money.

He spoke about the need for the government to further develop farming and fishing in Samoa.

He wonders if there are not more opportunities to revitalise both industries so that people will become excited about what they do.

A hard-working man, Sefo does not depend on anyone else but himself to provide for the needs of his family. 

As for everyday life, Sefo said the Village Council is doing a great job to keep the peace.

 “This village is becoming increasingly beautiful each day with its magnificent views and white sandy beach, as the Chiefs and village Council are managing the community well.

“We must strive for the greater good by working hard and not being lazy.”

By Lizzy Hunt 03 August 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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