Samoa’s Trade Commissioner in New Zealand, Fonoti Dr. Lafitai Iupati Fuatai, has had one more important title added to his bow.
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Fonoti was yesterday bestowed the paramount chiefly title of Tofaeono at Vaiala.
The ceremony was an occasion to behold, featuring the best of Samoan traditions as well as protocols that are specific to the Vaimauga district.
As such, the day was one of rejoicing and celebration not just for Vaiala and the titleholder’s family but also for the entire Vaimauga district.
Fonoti is the second from the family to be bestowed with the Tofaeono title. But the road to today has not been a smooth one.
Speaking to the Sunday Samoan after the ceremony, Tofaeono Iupati, said the journey to yesterday’s ceremony involved nearly 20 years of Court cases. He said after the Land and Titles Court was unable to resolve the issues, the matter was then referred to the Supreme Court where the final decision came from. Yesterday, Tofaeono said it is time to move forward.
He added that the title comes with “tremendous responsibility.”
But he is ready to assume the role. And given that he has a big family in Samoa and abroad, Tofaeono said there is much work to be done.
Tofaeono was the Director of the Centre of Samoan Studies at the National University of Samoa before he was appointed as Samoa’s Trade Commissioner to New Zealand. He has held the position for several years now.
Based in Auckland, Tofaeono is a frequent traveller to Samoa for family matters as well as those relating to his professional role.
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