Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has received a matai (chief) title in Samoa. The ceremony took place at Leauva’a Village, which is now considered Mr. Rabuka’s Samoan home. He was awarded the ‘tagaloa’alagi’ title, a prestigious chief title in the nation.
During the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2024 (CHOGM), King Charles III is expected to receive a chiefly title as well. The ceremony for Mr. Rabuka included a brief service led by the Archbishop, the leader of the Catholic Church in Samoa, followed by a traditional kava ceremony, in accordance with Samoan customs.
The ‘tagaloa’alagi’ title honors one of Samoa’s historical kings from the pre-missionary era. Mr. Rabuka expressed unity among the church leaders present, stating, “We aspire to continue to demonstrate and show to the world the close kinship we have in our part of the world.”
The village warmly welcomed Mr. Rabuka and his delegation, with villagers from various ranks participating. Placards proclaiming “Bula Vinaka!” and houses adorned with the Fiji flag were prominent during the event.
Mr. Rabuka received three elei shirts, a Samoan tanoa (bowl), a fue (fly switch), and a to’oto’o (wooden staff) as gifts, all of which hold significant cultural importance. The fue represents the wisdom of the speaker, while the to’oto’o symbolizes authority.
“May God’s blessings rest on us forever, I receive this yaqona on behalf of the leaders and the people of Fiji,” he stated during the ceremony, concluding with the traditional greeting, “Ni sa bula!”
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