Monarch Receives Tui-Taumeasina Title with Reminder of Lifelong Connection and Responsibility
King Charles and Queen Camilla were warmly welcomed to Samoa in a traditional ceremony, where the monarch was bestowed the prestigious title of Tui-Taumeasina (High Chief) by the Moata’a Village Chief. The gesture marked Charles's first visit to the Pacific Island nation and symbolised a deep bond between the Samoan people and the British royal family.
Chief Tofaeono Iupati Fuatai, who conferred the honour, emphasised the significance of the title. "When you are given a title like this, it is a big honour," he said. "We hope that the King takes a small part of Samoa away with him. Once he has the title of Tui-Taumeasina, we also become part of him, and he will be connected to our people and our lands forever."
The chief explained that the title is more than just a mark of respect—it represents a lifelong connection and shared responsibility. "When you confer such a title from the heart, we become bonded as one," he added.
King Charles's visit to Samoa comes as he prepares to lead the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). As a longtime advocate for climate action, the monarch will also address the pressing issue of rising sea levels, which pose a significant threat to the Pacific Island nation during his three-day tour.
