Taito and Tuitoga titles bestowed

By Talaia Mika 10 February 2019, 12:00AM

Faleapuna welcomed seven new matai titleholders yesterday who are keen to do the best they can to serve their families, church and village.

Among the titles bestowed were Taito and Tuitoga.

The titles were bestowed upon Taito Tony Ta’avale, Taito Romeo Ta’avale, Taito Caroline Auva’a, Taito Noeleen Baker, Taito Barry Ualesi, Tuitoga Tui Baker and Tuitoga Tepasu Thomas.

Family’s spokesperson, Taito Faitele Afamasaga, said the new titleholders are an important link between now and the future. 

Taito Faitele added that it was important to have their relatives residing outside of Samoa feel that they belong and are part of the family by carrying these important titles.

Taito Romeo Ta’avale, a New Zealand born Samoan, is ready to take on the responsibilities of a matai in his family alongside his brother Taito Tony Ta’avale.

“It’s a whole new chapter for me and I’m ready,” he said. “This is a new beginning and coming to Samoa has given me a new perspective so far and humbled me in a way of appreciating life.”

Taito Tony believes it’s not about money but it’s about supporting families and the village.

“It’s a lot of responsibilities but we’re from New Zealand so we can come as one to help as that’s why we’re here,” he said.

The ceremony was blessed by Reverend Peni Meaalofa of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa at Faleapuna.

Traditional formalities followed the blessing.

By Talaia Mika 10 February 2019, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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