Samoa is days away from hosting the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) under the theme “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Commonwealth.” This marks the first time the biennial event will be hosted by a Pacific island nation.
The meeting will see King Charles III deliver the opening address as Head of the Commonwealth, his first as monarch, alongside Queen Consort Camilla. He and Queen Camilla will also engage in local activities, such as visiting a mangrove forest and opening “The King’s Garden” at Samoa’s Botanical Gardens.
CHOGM, first formed in 1949, comprises 56 independent countries, many of which were once part of the British Empire. Its shared goals include promoting education, democracy, trade, and gender equality. Samoa Prime Minister Fiamē Naomi Mataafa emphasized the significance of hosting such a high-profile event, saying it provides an opportunity to highlight issues facing small island nations.
The event’s discussions will likely focus on climate change, a pressing issue for many Pacific nations. Baroness Patricia Scotland, the Commonwealth’s Secretary-General, stated, “At the top of our agenda will be small island developing states’ vulnerability… what are we going to do about climate change?”
The Samoan government has been preparing for months, with road closures planned and national beautification efforts in place. Villages have decorated roadsides with Commonwealth flags, creating a festive atmosphere. An estimated 6,000 participants, including officials, media, and youth leaders, are expected to attend.
Despite concerns from Pacific media watchdogs about restrictions, Prime Minister Fiame assured that media access would follow established protocols to ensure smooth coverage of the event.
CHOGM kicks off on October 21 and will run through October 26, with key events such as the Commonwealth Business Forum and Leaders’ Retreat.
