As part of their royal visit for CHOGM Samoa, Their Majesties King Charles and Queen Camilla visited the village of Moata’a, where they were warmly welcomed by the chiefs, women, and children of the village. The highlight of the visit was the bestowing of a high chief title on King Charles III.
In a formal ceremony, King Charles was honoured with the title Tuitaumeasina, or Tupu Taumeasina, which translates to King Taumeasina. This title embodies the deep respect the village holds for him and strengthens his connection to Samoa.
One of the chiefs’ representatives spoke, saying, “King Taumeasina, you are now part of the village of Moata’a chiefs’ council, and Your Majesty Queen Camilla, you are a member of the women’s committee of Moata’a.” The royals were seen smiling at the gesture.
King Taumeasina Charles III was then gifted with a fine mat, an orator’s staff and a flying whisk, while Queen Camilla was gifted with a beautiful hand-woven fine mat. The orator’s staff and the flying whisk are symbolic items used by chiefs when speaking on special occasions.
After the title ceremony, Queen Camilla spent time with members of the Congregational Christian Church and their pastor schools. She observed the children’s routine, enjoying the songs they performed as part of their regular activities. The Queen was then guided through displays of the children’s work, showcasing their creativity and learning.
One of the most beautiful moments was when the Queen was surrounded by young children as they sang the Samoan farewell song, Tofa My Feleni (Goodbye My Friend).
It was a key part of the Queen’s agenda was to visit one of the pastor schools on the island to observe how the children are learning and their progress in literacy and numeracy.
