All leaders from the 56 participating countries at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (C.H.O.G.M.) in October have been told not to wear suits but would be given Samoan-styled uniforms prepared by the government.

This was confirmed by Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa on "The Commonwealth" Facebook page in a short clip that showcased the government's excitement to welcome the Commonwealth guests in six months in an island style.

"Samoa is very excited to receive the Commonwealth family in October. From last year when we determined how we would organise. We established our task force with the responsibilities for all the different organisations," she said.

"Here in the Pacific and especially for small communities, it is our practice to involve the widest possible participation not only the government but also non-government organisations, especially our Samoan communities. I've said on other occasions that this is going to be an ideal CHOGM.

"Can I tell you it's warm in October so please don't wear your suits. Be comfortable, we will provide you as we always do, with a uniform for the leaders but in your packing, please consider that you are coming to an island and we want you to be comfortable.

"We look forward to welcoming you in island style, we will show you a part of the world that possibly many of you never travelled to before, and one of the things that I always value at the different international forums that we are members of, we always talk about how important our diversity is, well this will be a real diversity experience for the CHOGM family."

As Samoa has its' own settled values, Fiame urged the visitors and leaders to be appreciative and understanding of this as it is what Samoa treasures.

"I hope that you will have an appreciation of our place and understand why we have settled values that we espouse which are global values, especially in how we care for each other and those who have more responsibilities but we all make the contribution to make our world a better place," she said.

"So we look forward to welcoming you all in October of this year."

Meanwhile, Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland KC during her visit to Samoa last month expressed her admiration for Samoa's preparations for the upcoming event, underscoring the breathtaking venues and the enthusiasm of the Samoan community. 

Ms. Scotland commended the efforts of the Prime Minister and her team, expressing anticipation for welcoming leaders from all 56 Commonwealth countries to Samoa. 

"We are examining everything and the beauty of Samoa is just breathtaking as you can see," she remarked, emphasizing the meticulous planning underway," she said.

Reflecting on her visit to various venues across the island, Ms. Scotland also praised the passion and dedication of the local organisers.