Hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa is a great opportunity that brings many benefits to the country.

This event brings leaders from across the Commonwealth together to discuss important issues, but it also has significant advantages for the host nation. In this article, I will explain three major benefits Samoa will enjoy if we host the CHOGM: improvements in infrastructure, increased income for local businesses, and greater global recognition.

One of the first benefits of hosting CHOGM is the improvement of our country’s infrastructure. When international events like this are held in a country, there is often a need to upgrade roads, airports, hotels, and public spaces. Samoa would need to ensure that our facilities and services meet international standards to accommodate high-profile visitors and their delegations. This can lead to better transportation systems, improved utilities like electricity and water supply, and modernized communication networks.

These infrastructure improvements would not only benefit CHOGM visitors, but they would also remain in place long after the event is over. Samoan citizens would enjoy better roads, more reliable public services, and possibly new or upgraded facilities. Such long-term improvements would enhance the quality of life for everyone and support future growth and development in the country.

Another big advantage of hosting CHOGM is the economic boost it provides to local businesses. Large numbers of delegates, media personnel, and tourists would flock to Samoa for the event, creating a surge in demand for services. Hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and local shops would see increased business during the event, leading to higher profits and job creation. For many small businesses, this could be a rare opportunity to showcase their products and services to an international audience.

In addition, the preparations leading up to CHOGM could provide work for construction companies, event planners, and other service providers. The increased economic activity would circulate more money in the local economy, potentially helping businesses grow and contributing to the country’s overall economic health. Hosting such a significant event could create lasting opportunities for local entrepreneurs and workers.

Finally, hosting CHOGM would put Samoa on the map, increasing our visibility worldwide. International media would cover the event, highlighting Samoa’s culture, natural beauty, and hospitality. This type of global exposure could attract more tourists and investors to the country. People around the world would learn about Samoa’s unique attractions, and our reputation as a peaceful and beautiful island nation would be strengthened.

Being in the international spotlight could also lead to stronger relationships with other countries. Leaders from around the Commonwealth would experience Samoa’s hospitality firsthand, potentially leading to closer ties with their nations. This could result in more international partnerships, support for development projects, and opportunities for Samoan businesses and citizens to engage with the global community.

In conclusion, hosting the CHOGM in Samoa would be a huge benefit to our country. It would lead to important infrastructure upgrades, provide a big boost to local businesses, and put Samoa in the global spotlight. These advantages would help our country grow and thrive, not just during the event, but for years to come. Hosting such a prestigious event would be a proud moment for Samoa and a step forward in our development as a nation.