Prime Minister Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa at the opening of CHOGM people, women and youth forums on Monday, 21 October. Photo: Samoa Government
The 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is about putting vulnerable groups at the front, Samoan Prime Minister Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa says.
The summit kicked off in Apia on Monday, with forums focusing on women, youth and people held in various venues in Apia.
Delegations from 56 countries will converge on the island for a series of side meetings and forums throughout the week, before the Heads of Government meeting itself on Friday.
CHOGM kicks off in Samoa
In her opening address, Fiamē said the "historic week" is about "meaningful dialogue and impactful collaboration across our Commonwealth family.
"The [people, women and youth forums] we are launching this morning represent the critical voices of our people especially the women the youth and our children," she said.
"Let us listen to the voices of the people, our Commonwealth youth and feel the hopes of our children rising with the changing tides."
In attendance were the Commonwealth secretary-general, government officials from Pacific and Caribbean nations and youth representatives.
The ceremony also saw the launch of the 'Torch of Change' campaign - an initiative led by Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG), who came in full force sporting bright yellow shirts with the words 'let it end with me' emblazoned across the back.
SVSG's youth coordinator Talaimanu Peneueta said the campaign is about addressing Samoa's issues surrounding youth and domestic violence.
She said when it comes to international forums, Pacific issues are often side-lined, but she sees the value in Samoa hosting CHOGM.
"I think as a small island nation and as the first Pacific island to be hosting this CHOGM, it is really important for us to amplify our voices.
"This is our chance to let people know what our issues are and also let them know that we are resilient and we're still navigating our course for a stronger tomorrow."
According to a report by the Commonwealth, almost nine in 10 Samoan women experience physical or emotional violence at the hands of a family member, with six out of ten experiencing intimate partner violence.
Samoa's deputy prime minister Tuala Iosefo Ponifasio said the government is actively responding to the country's social issues
"This is a topical issue in the world, and these are the priorities for Samoa as well. We realise these are on top of the world's agenda as well and for Samoa to address it and make it a priority makes it important."
The youth, women and people forums will conclude on Tuesday, 22 October, and followed by the business forum on Wednesday.