Torch of Change launched and to be back in Samoa for CHOGM 

Apia, 30 August 2024 – As Samoa prepares to host and participate in the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), the Torch of Change that will be part of the meeting was launched by the Deputy Prime Minister, Tuala Iosefo Ponifasio last week.

Led by the youth of the Samoa Victim Support Group, the Torch initiative will virtually travel across the 56 Commonwealth countries, carrying a message of change and inclusivity while rallying communities to combat domestic violence against women and children and champion equality for all.

The Torch of Change also underscores Samoa’s readiness to showcase its progress on inclusivity and gender equality.

This is through initiatives such as the Cabinet-endorsed allocation of 20% of District Development Funds for gender equality and social inclusion, Samoa remains at the forefront of inclusive development in the Pacific.

In launching the Torch, Tuala said he wished the torch’s journey will inspire and be an agent of change for the young people who will be touched by the torch’s message of hope. He said that the torch will be back in Apia for the official opening of CHOGM in October and its underlying message will feature prominently during the Commonwealth Youth Forum which will part of the meeting.

Samoa’s Minister of Youth, Mulipola Anarosa Molioo is leading Samoa’s delegation to the Commonwealth Youth Ministers meeting in Fiji starting 02 September ahead of the Commonwealth Youth Forum which the Ministers have been invited to attend.