In Samoa, President Paul Kagame has formally handed over Rwanda’s Commonwealth Chair-in-Office role to Prime Minister Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa during the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). The ceremony marked a significant moment as Samoa becomes the first Pacific island nation to host the prestigious summit.
As part of his closing address, Kagame emphasized the importance of collaboration within the Commonwealth, particularly in the face of rising global challenges, with climate change as a central theme.
“It has been a great honour for Rwanda to serve as Chair-in-Office for the past two years,” Kagame remarked. “I congratulate Prime Minister Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa, and wish you all success as Chair. Rwanda stands ready to support you.” Kagame’s words underscored the pressing need for global action, particularly for small island states, like Samoa, that face existential threats from climate change. He stressed that these nations, along with those in the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia, are disproportionately impacted by rising temperatures, and the world must step up to support them.
“For small island developing states, this is literally a matter of survival,” Kagame said, pointing out that two-thirds of the world’s small states are Commonwealth members. “We cannot ignore the voices of those who are bearing the brunt of this crisis, and they should not have to beg for our support.” This appeal aligns with broader CHOGM discussions where climate change remains a top priority.
This year’s CHOGM in Samoa, which has drawn over 4,000 delegates, including heads of state, ministers, and global leaders like King Charles III, has been a significant platform for addressing critical global issues. Apart from climate change, other topics such as post-pandemic recovery, economic development, and reparations have been highlighted .
As Kagame officially handed over the chairmanship, he reflected on Rwanda’s achievements during his tenure and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the Commonwealth’s goals. He highlighted the progress made in strengthening cooperation among member states and called for continued efforts to tackle global issues, especially those affecting small and vulnerable nations.
Kagame’s passionate speech was not just about passing the baton; it was a powerful reminder that the voices of the most affected must lead the global conversation on climate action. He urged the Commonwealth to remain steadfast in its support, saying, “Rwanda stands ready to continue working with all of you in this fight.”
With Samoa now at the helm, the Commonwealth has entered a new chapter—one where small states, particularly those most threatened by climate change, are at the forefront of global discussions. Kagame’s closing remarks reinforced that the Commonwealth must be a space where every member, regardless of size, has a voice and receives the support it needs to survive and thrive.
