Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has been honored with a matai, or chief title, in Samoa. The ceremony took place in Leauva’a Village, which Rabuka now considers his Samoan home. He was given the esteemed ‘tagaloa’alagi’ title, a prestigious chief title that is significant in Samoan culture.
The only other leader anticipated to receive a chiefly title during the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2024 is King Charles III. The event included a brief service conducted by the Archbishop and the Leader of the Catholic Church in Samoa, followed by a traditional kava ceremony to formally bestow the ‘tagaloa’alagi’ title upon Rabuka.
The title ‘tagaloa’alagi’ is historically linked to one of Samoa’s kings from a time before missionaries arrived. Mr. Rabuka expressed his appreciation and spoke of unity, stating, “The church leaders who are represented here, we are one. We aspire to continue to demonstrate and show to the world the close kinship we have in our part of the world.”
The atmosphere in the village was one of camaraderie, as villagers, from high-ranking chiefs to children, came together to welcome Rabuka and his delegation. Signs displaying “Bula Vinaka!” and homes adorned with the Fiji flag highlighted the festive spirit of the occasion.
During the ceremony, Rabuka was presented with three elei shirts, a Samoan-made tanoa (a ceremonial bowl), a fue (a fly whisk), and a to’oto’o (a wooden staff). These items hold great importance in Samoan traditions; the fue represents the wisdom of the orator, while the to’oto’o symbolizes authority.
Rabuka expressed gratitude, saying, “May God’s blessings rest on us forever, I receive this yaqona on behalf of the leaders and the people of Fiji.” He concluded with, “Ni sa bula!”