SPPCS WELCOMES INTERNATIONAL POLICE PARTNERS with TRADITIONAL AVA CEREMONY FOR CHOGM 2024

Thursday, 18 October 2024 – This morning, the Samoa Police, Prisons, and Corrections Services (SPPCS) officially welcomed its international and Pacific region Police Force partners with a traditional Ava ceremony held at the Samoa Police Training Academy, Tafa’igata.

The ceremony marks the beginning of close collaboration in preparation for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) to be hosted in Samoa next week. The Ava ceremony is a vital component of Samoan culture, symbolizing respect, unity, and the establishment of strong ties among participants.

Attending the ceremony were police delegations from the Pacific and beyond, reflecting the spirit of partnership and cooperation essential to ensuring a secure and successful CHOGM. The traditional Ava ceremony, an iconic gesture of Samoan hospitality, brought together police brothers and sisters from across the Pacific.

These forces are set to work closely in the coming days, providing enhanced security and safety for the CHOGM delegates and participants. The collaborative effort is seen as crucial for maintaining peace and security during this high-level international event, which will bring leaders from across the Commonwealth to Samoa’s shores.

The Ava ceremony symbolizes a strong bond of cooperation and mutual support, demonstrating Samoa’s readiness to host CHOGM with the support of its Pacific and international law enforcement partners. The participation of these partners will enhance the security and operations framework of the SPPCS, ensuring that the event runs smoothly and securely.

The Samoa Police, Prisons, and Corrections Services extends its gratitude to all the participating forces and looks forward to the success of CHOGM 2024 as a landmark event for Samoa and the Pacific.