The Fuimaono chiefly title has been bestowed upon twelve heirs of the Fuimaono Naoia family.

The bestowal ceremony was held at Salani last Saturday and has been described as a "Christmas gift" to the family, according to family member, Hope Neenee Ioane.

The traditional ceremony last Saturday was the culmination of one year of planning for the Fuimaono family and relatives in Samoa and abroad. 

The 12 family members who were bestowed the title comprised Fuimaono Naoia Palane, Fuimaono Naoia Tui, Fuimaono Naoia Melesone, Fuimaono Naoia Joe, Fuimaono Naoia kaio, Fuimaono Naoia pala, Fuimaono Naoia Faaoso, Fuimaono Naoia Naoia, Fuimaono Naoia Uili, Fuimaono Naoia Tuluvao, Fuimaono Naoia Sala and Fuimaono Naoia Solomona.

According to Mrs. Ioane, the bestowment of the title for the recipients should translate to a responsibility that contributes to building the family heritage for the future.

The bestowal ceremony was held in their extended family’s house called ‘Maota o Fuimaono Naoia’ where it all began.

“Our relatives overseas who were bestowed the title were excited and have been looking forward to this event all year long,” Mrs. Ioane said.

“Wherever they are around the world, they will always come back and serve the family, culture and the country.”

The other bestowal was done two years ago that also welcomed relatives of the Fimaono Naoia family from abroad to be bestowed the title.

New Fuimaono chiefs will now serve not only the family but also the village of Salani.