The Maota-o-Gataiala at Sapapali’i Savai’i was the venue of a momentous occasion for the descendants of the Malietoa Natuitasina family last Saturday.

The special event was the bestowal of the titles ‘Papali’itele’ and ‘Taimalelagi’ upon new holders. The Papali’itele title was bestowed upon five family members while two descendants of Malietoa Natuitasina received the Taimalelagi title. 

The ceremony began with a service conducted by Reverend Auetama Esera from the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa at Sapapali’i.

New holders of the Papali’itele title include Papali’i Vainuupo Papali’i, Papali’i Michael Tia’i, Papali’i Pa’o Mua’au, Papali’i Lei’a Lei’a and Papali’i Fereti. 

The Taimalelagi titles are now held by  Taimalelagi Sanitoa and Taimalelagi Fuifui Elekana.