King Charles and Queen Camilla have arrived in Samoa in anticipation of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting currently taking place there. Wednesday evening saw a warm welcome in Apia from the Samoan Prime Minister and local leaders.
On their first day, the royals participated in a traditional Royal Ava Ceremony, akin to a kava ceremony, at the National University of Samoa, hosted by villagers from Falelatai. The event was attended by Samoa’s Head of State, Afioga i le Ao Mamalu o le Malo Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II, Masiofo Faamausili Leinafo Tuimalealiifano, and Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa, along with various Cabinet Ministers.
The King and Queen also toured the Samoa Culture Village in Matagialalua, where they were greeted by enthusiastic locals, particularly children, eager to meet their Majesties. The couple took in various Samoan customs and traditions showcased at the cultural center.
According to the Royal family’s website, this state visit aims to celebrate the long-standing bilateral relationship between Samoa and the United Kingdom, notably bolstered by Samoa’s role in hosting CHOGM 2024. The King plans to engage with young individuals and community and faith leaders.
His schedule will highlight sustainability and biodiversity, aligning with CHOGM’s key theme, “A Resilient Environment,” with a particular emphasis on ocean conservation. The King is set to explore a mangrove forest and a National Park to observe the efforts of local communities in restoring and protecting these essential ecosystems. Additionally, he will plant a tree in Samoa’s Botanical Garden, inaugurating a new section known as “The King’s Garden.”
Meanwhile, Queen Camilla’s activities will center on her broader charitable initiatives. She plans to visit a traditional Samoan Pastor’s School, known as a aoga faifeau, to learn about the reading and writing education provided to the students. The Queen will also meet with the Samoa Victim Support Group, an organization dedicated to helping survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, where she will gain insight into the support services they offer to individuals in crisis.
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