The Member of Parliament for Lefaga and Falease'ela, Toleafoa Ken Poutoa, has had one more title added to his name.

At Faleaseela yesterday, he was bestowed the Va’afusuaga title, the highest honour in his family.

Nineteen other family members received other chiefly titles. Speaking to the Sunday Samoan, Va’afusuaga said he was honoured by the faith his family has in him to carry the title.

 “It is our family’s highest honour, this particular title was held by my late father, Va’afusuaga Poutoa who passed away two years ago,” he said. 

“The significance of this title for me alone is the responsibility that comes with it and that is serving the village and family.

“Overall, is about serving the Lord and I am prepared to shoulder all the obligations not only to my village but also our district as I am the holder of both titles.

“It is not an easy load to carry but I truly believe that with God as my guide I can endure everything. I also acknowledge the support of our families from overseas that have travelled just for this occasion.”

The ceremony, held at the Maota o Mulivai, was blessed by Pastor Pio Filipo Paiti and Pastor Patolomeo Saga of the Catholic Church, Reverend Tuitoga Leota of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa and Rev. Silva of the Methodist Church. There were two ceremonies that took place, the first which was the bestowment of the Vaafusuaga title and then followed by 19 individuals that were given various titles.

Eight family members were conferred the Toleafoa title, one Patea title. Other titles bestowed included the Tuiafetea, Taloolevavau, Feagaimaalii, Maugafolau and Saefu.