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Sawana

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Sawana is a village on the Fijian island of Vanua Balavu, in the Lau archipelago and is part of the Tikina of Lomaloma.

Loto'a the Official Residence of the Tui Lau in Sawana Village, Lomaloma, Vanuabalavu, Lau

Sawana is part of the greater Lomaloma settlement consisting of the government compound to the north which includes the hospital, doctors and nurses quarters, the former residence of the Magistrate of Lomaloma and the Adi Maopa Primary and Secondary Schools, the Fijian village of Nakoro short for Delainakorolevu, a natural stream that separates it from the village of Sawana and a settlement further to the south called Naqara. The village of Sawana is located directly in front of the famous bay - called the Toba ko Lomaloma. Also located in Sawana is a plot of land that Ma'afu selected as his compound where he conducted his business and also his home. This residence is called Loto'a or Lomaniba and is referred to traditionally as 'kelekele tapu 'o Ma'afu'.

The village of Sawana and Nakoro are very well laid out and planned with access roads to the front the middle and back aligned with various family plots demarcated with hibiscus hedges and mango trees aligned the access roads providing shade and add coolness and shelter from heat to the villagers .

The family plots are arranged as follows commencing at Loto'a and tracking south we come across the Sawana Methodist Church compound, adjoined on the western boundary by the Lasike, Fotofili and Vakauliafa plots then across a small stream to the Wainiqolo, Fotofili, a vacant plot that the previous Tui Lau used for his now defunct Cocoa-nut Mill, then to Tuakolo and Nabouono before we reach a small settlement called Naqara located to the southernmost part of the village. These plots face directly to the Toba of Lomaloma. In the middle starting at Naivi heading north reside the Fonolahi and Fine Mateaki plot, then Makasiale, Wainiqolo, Tovehi and Vutubana the residence of the Vave family (Mataiasi Vave and Joeli Bulu families reside next to each other here). Walking across the middle road to the back of the village heading south again - we start with the Vakauliafa family (Fakaifo and Kubu families reside next to each other here) with their residence bordering with the village of Nakoro, the Rakai residence at Serutivau and Poa, then Lawega the Tongan Minister's residence, the Fatafehi residence, Uata Waleadau, Fotofili, and the Foiakau residence at Naivi.

The village plan is well organized with three village greens: one at Naivi another at Loto'a and the third a cricket field recently added and designed and surveyed to a national size standard at the back of the village. The village cemetery is located on the southern end of the village.

The village has its own water supply and diesel electric generator that provides power on an average of 5 hours per day. Water is reticulated to all homes with most homes having their own bathrooms and flush toilets. Water supply has improved significantly and with current population, water is available 24 hours per day.

The finishing touches to the village water supply project completed in 2010 - when an additional 100,000 litres of water storage was commissioned and handed over to the Village Water Supply Committee

As the population of Sawana is predominantly of Tongan origin, the people have maintained their Tongan customs and tradition including church services which are conducted in Tongan, as well as Fijian. The village has a long tradition of having allocated to it from the Tongan Methodist Conference (Siasi Uesiliana Tau'ata'ina 'o Tonga) its own Minister which the Siasi of Sawana fund directly themselves as well as maintaining their contribution to the Fijian Talatala Qase residing in the adjacent village of Nakoro servicing the whole Tikina of Lomaloma.

A village having its own Minister directly allocated from Tonga is a unique experience and dedication by the people of Sawana in their quest for maintenance of their Tongan cultural link as well as their respect for their Fijian cultural existence.

The selection of a High Chieftain

The Tongan community residing is Sawana are descendants of Tongans who settled on this land as part of Ma'afu's delegation. Ma'afu was the first Tui Lau, a title bestowed on him by the elders of Lau, the Vuanirewa clan at Tubou in Lakeba and confirmed by the Tovata Confederacy.

He was the founder of the Village of Sawana, his home and base from where he conducted his business with his people. Following his death, the title was not filled until the Colonial process of Veitarogi Vanua when the people of the Yavusa Tonga resurrected the title with the nomination of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna as the second Tui Lau. His nomination by the Yavusa Tonga, often referred to as Ma'afu's Yavusa was aligned with his descendants and chiefly connection to the Vuanirewa clan in Tubou.

Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna was son of Ratu Jone Madraiwiwi of Bau and Adi Litiana Maopa of the Vuanirewa clan. He was a paramount chief both in Bau as well as in Lau. It is via this process during the Colonial Rule and the TRY Tonga that the nomination for the title of the Tui Lau was formerly augmented into the Native Title processes with the Tongan community in Sawana selecting its head as the Tui Lau and this process is then formerly notified and presented to the Vuanirewa clan on the island of Lakeba for formal endorsement by the Tui Nayau recognizing the close connection of the original Tui Lau, Ma'afu to the Vuanirewa clan. Reference is made of this protocol in the TRY Lakeba and TRY Tonga.

Ratu Sukuna was instrumental in fact advised and encouraged the revival of this title as well as the establishment of it as the Head of the Yavusa Tonga during the Colonial Rule - a process that the whole of Fiji went through to formalise the structure of its people and land ownership as part of the Veitarogi Vanua. The history and politic associated with this process was described in Lessin's research work as was ultimately recorded in the TRY Tonga.

The three previous Tui Lau with Ma'afu being the first, settled in Sawana and build his base and home at Loto'a. Ratu Sukuna also used the government part of Lomaloma as his base called Delana and Ratu Mara who held two Titles: Tui Nayau and Tui Lau also used Loto'a as his base. While his main base was in Tubou Lakeba, he together with the support of the Yavusa Tonga in particular two of its favorite sons - Hon Charles Walker and Solomone Makasiale revived the official residence of the Tui Lau in Loto'a and re established as his residence in 1973.

Also located at Loto'a is a monument installed in 1969 to commemorate 100 years of the formation of the Tovata Confederacy and the installation of Ma'afu as its Head. The installation was made at Sawana, Lomaloma in 1869 by the Tui Cakau, Tui Bua and Tui Nayau with Macuata joining the federation later. The memorial plaque was unveiled at Loto'a by Ratu Mara in his role as the Third Tui Lau in 1969.

Loto'a - Kelekele Tapu 'o Ma'afu with a Plaque commemorating 100 years of the formation of the Tovata in Sawana, Lomaloma, Vanuabalavu Lau in the foreground.

The wording on the plaque reads:

1969 AI VAKANANUMI NI YABAKI DRAU NEI ENELE MA'AFU 'O TU'I TONGA AI MATAI NI TUI LAU DIGITAKI MEI LIULIU NI TOVATA ENA BOSE MAI LOMALOMA 1869 TA E TO'A TU'U E TO'A

Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara was installed as Tui Lau at the recommendation of the Yavusa Tonga and was finally endorsed by Ratu Mara's father Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba in 1963 - as referenced in the Minutes of the Yavusa Tonga delegation that sailed to Lakeba to make the presentation. Following Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba's agreement, Ratu Mara was installed as Tui Lau at Loto'a by the Yavusa Tonga people (reference page 99 Mara, The Pacific Way Paper) in 1963.

Ratu Mara held the title Tui Lau whilst his father held the title Tui Nayau until his passing in 1966. Ratu Mara was installed as Tui Nayau and Sau ni Vanua in 1969 by the people of Nayau (as Tui Nayau) and Lakeba (as Sau ni Vanua) as referenced in Mara, The Pacific Way paper.

Strengthening of tribal ties to Tonga and in Fiji

There are many tribal ties between the people of Sawana with their Tongan heritage to various families in Fiji and Tonga. The Village of Sawana is made up of the following main Families in alphabetic order - all connected together in terms of their common heritage from Tonga and intermixed with their tribal ties to Fiji.

Fatafehi, Fine, Foi'akau, Fonolahi, Fotofili, Lasike, Tovehi, Vaka'uliafa, Vave, Wainiqolo and Rakai

As families trace their origins to various regal systems in Tonga, important to note the following:

Tonga's ancient regal system evolved into a tri-partite system of three rulers styled Tu'i Tonga, Tu'i Ha'atakalaua and Tu'i Kanokupolu with all three emanating from the original system of Tu'i Tonga. As the three systems grew with Tonga, the two older lines namely the Tu'i Tonga and Tu'i Ha'atakalaua began to decline and ceased to exist. They were eventually phased out as they all came under the one regal system - the current Tu'i Kanokupolu and ruled by the Tupou Dynasty from the late 18th century.

In terms of historical timeline, Aho'etui the 1st Tui Tonga originated in the 10th century. Little is known about this early tribe apart from their names. About the 15th century, the Tu'i Tonga withdrew from political power by the establishment of the Tu'i Ha'atakalaua line as it was formed in 1535. Further erosion of power occurred during the reign of Tu'ipulotu I to the Tu'i Kanokupolu. The 39th Tu'i Tonga (Laufilitonga)of Tongatapu tried to win back some political power from Taufa'ahau as Tu'i Ha'apai (installed in 1820) but was defeated at the battle of Velata, Ha'apai in 1826 and the Tu'i Tonga line finally died out and ceased to exist on 9 December 1865 when the King George I was installed in Vavau as the 40th Tu'i Tonga.

The Tu'i Kanokupolu regal line was formed in 1610 from Ngata son of the 6th Tu'i Ha'atakalaua, Moungatonga. Ngata became the first Tu'i Kanokupolu and Fotofili, Ngata's older brother maintained the Tu'i Ha'atakalaua line as the 7th Tu'i Ha'atakalaua [this line is referenced as the original sources of Wainiqolo [Talia'uli], Rakai and Foiakau [Luani I], Fine and Fonolahi [Luani II] Family Trees below]. Fotofili as 7th Tu'i Ha'atakalaua was recorded in Able Tasman's writings as the king that received them to Tonga in January 1643.

The title Tu'i Kanokupolu was not strictly hereditary initially [normally selected by the Tu'i Tonga and Tu'i Ha'atakalaua tribes] as can be seen from the lines of people who held the title until the current Tupou Dynasty who took over the title when it became hereditary following the coronation of King George Taufa'ahau Tupou I.

Like the Tu'i Tonga line, the Tu'i Ha'atakalaua by the 18th century had been totally eclipsed by the Tu'i Kanokupolu via Taufa'ahau's ability to respond to Christianity and assumed powers from his cousins in Hapai, Vavau and Tongatapu. Taufa'ahau was Tui Ha'apai and is from Ha'apai but centralized his government in Nukualofa as center of government.

In the 17th and 18th centuries - the Tu'i Ha'apai [Taufa'ahau from 1820] and Tu'i Vavau Finau 'Ulukalala from 1736) became stronger within the existing 3 regal lines including the formation of the separate Ulukalala line (formed in 1777) as paramount chief of Vavau - all existed within the confines of the 3 regal lines until 1865 when Taufa'ahau formed a single kingdom and was installed as 'O Tu'i Tonga, Tu'i Ha'atakalaua, Tu'i Kanokupolu and merged the other titles of Tu'i Vavau and Tu'i Ha'apai and Ulukalala and many others totaling 20 lines under his full control.

Finau ʻUlukālala III, best known in history as Finau ʻUlukālala III ʻi Pouono (the part of Neiafu where he died), also named Tuapasi. He was the second son of Finau Fangupō and became 10th Tuʻi Vavaʻu in 1811, although it was not until 1820 before he got all the islands under control once again. When he died in March 1833 he ceded Vavau to his cousin and son in law Tāufaʻāhau I, as the Tu'i Kanokupolu line grew in strength leading to him being the most powerful person in Tonga. As he was already Tu'i Ha'apai. Tu'i Kanakupolu and the title Tu'i Tonga was now incidental, his ascending to the title Tu'i Vavau and at Pouono, on 20 November 1839 that Tāufaʻāhau declared himself King of Tonga and ceded it then to the new Christian god. It was a telling moment when the total reversal of strength and importance in Tonga where the youngest regal line the Tu'i Kanokupolu took charge with Tu'i Ha'atakalaua (represented by Tungi, Luani, Fakafonua and Fotofili) second and Tu'i Tonga (represented by a new Noble line Kalaniuvalu) third.

The 17th and 18th centuries saw the shift in power from Tongatapu to the northern group of Vavau and Ha'apai with Finau Ulukalala and his brother Finau Tupouniua conquering both as they both shared Tui Vavau [Finau Tupouniua] and Tui Ha'apai [Finau Ulukalala] before Taufa'ahau took control in the later part of the 18th century where the roles were reversed. If it was not for this dynasty - Tonga would have been a nation of 3 groups with Niuatoputapu and Vavau merging into one group, Haapai in the Central and Tongatapu in the South.

During Taufa'ahau's ascendancy to the throne, he progressively secured the following:

  • Appointed by his father as Tu'i Ha'apai in 1820
  • Defeated Tu'i Tonga, Laufilitonga (of Tonga Tapu) in the battle of Valeta in 1826 with the help of many who became Nobles as their reward
  • Succeeded his father in law (Finau Ulukalala III i' Pou'ono Tu'apasi 12th Tu'i Vavau, 4th Ulukalala) as 13th Tu'i Vavau in 1833
  • Published the Vavau Code in 1838 and the public proclamation in Pou'ono in 1839
  • Installed as the 19th Tu'i Kanokupolu in 1845
  • Installed as Tupou I in 1845
  • Moved his capital to Lifuka, Ha'apai in 1847 and returned to Nuku'alofa in 1851
  • Established first parliament in 1862
  • Installed in Vavau as 40th Tu'i Tonga in 1865
  • Confirmed as 'O Tu'i Tonga in 1875
  • Established Wesleyan Free Church and made it the state church in 1885
  • Died on 18 February 1893

Modern Tonga of today exists with only one regal line - that of the current Tupou dynasty and while current tribes can trace their origins to the original systems of governance in Tonga - the emergence of the current regal system was formed with the denouncing of many old titles and lines and the creation by King George I [Taufa'ahau] following the promulgation of the 1875 constitution of 20 ancient titles into Nobles, and a further 10 was added in 1880. King George II adding 2 more and Queen Salote added another 1.

The above information was referenced from the article Tonga, Brief History and research work by Christopher Buyers, 2001.

As families in Sawana often reference their connections to Hereditary Nobles, below is a summary of these, their origins, locations and changes that have occurred:

Of the hundreds of titles that existed pre George Tupou I - he formerlised 20 titles into Nobles with Estates to support them.

  • Tu'i Pelehake: a direct descendant of Tu'i Tonga remained the second highest Noble next only to the King himself and is normally reserved for the King's younger brother. He is deemed more senior than Kalaniuvalu descendant of Tu'i Tonga.
  • Tu'i Ha'atakalaua: The Head Noble is Tungi [Tongatapu] with other three being Luani [Vavau], Fotofili {Niuatoputapu] and Fakafanua [Ha'apai] are senior nobles with link to the Tu'i Ha'atakalaua
  • Tu'i Tonga descendants: Kalaniuvalu was created to honour the last Tu'i Tonga 'Laufilitonga' descendants and close connected with the Fotofili line via marriage
  • Title added by King George Tupou II Lasike created in 1894 and Veikune in 1903
  • Title added by Queen Salote: Tupouto'a (created in 1921, title reserved for the future King - the #1 in line to the throne).
  • Nobles with origins from Niuatoputapu and Niuafo'ou Group: Fusitu'a, Fotofili [Estate in NF], Tangipa [Estate in NF]
  • Nobles with origins from Vava'u Group: Fakatulolo [Estate in V], Fulivai [Estate in V], Luani {Estate in T,V], Tuita [Estate in V, NF], Tu'ilakepa [Estate on Ofu Is V], Tu'iafitu [Estate in V], Ulukalala (Title ceded to Taufa'ahau I by Ulukalala III in 1833. Was resumed by King Taufa'ahau IV and is reserved as title held by the Crown Prince, # 2 in line to the throne, Estate in T,V), Veikune [created by King George II in 1903 Estate in T, V] and Niukapu [Estate in V],
  • Nobles with origins from Ha'apai Group: Fakafanua [Estate in T,H,V], Tu'iha'ateiho [Estate in T], Malupo [Estate in H], Tu'i Ha'angana [Estate in H]
  • Nobles from the Tongatapu Group
  • Nobles with origins from Eua: Ata (Noble title from Kolovai), Ahome'e [Estate in T,V], Fielakepa [Estate in T], Fohe, Kalaniuvalu (descendants of Laufilitonga Estate in T), Lasike (created by King George II in 1894 Estate in T,H,V), Ma'afu [Estate in T], Nuku [Estate in T], Tungi [Estate in T], Tu'ivakano [Estate in T], Vaea [Estate in T], Vaha'i [Estate in T,V], Ve'ehala [Estate in T]
  • Nobles with origins from Tongatapu: Lavaka (title resumed by the King), Ma'atu, Tu'ipelehake (the second highest title next only to the King) [Estate in T,H,V], Tupouto'a [Estate in T,H,V] (conferred to the heir apparent with title Ulukalala reverting to the heir aparent's son)

Most senior ranking Nobles as referenced in the article 'Kava Kuo Heka' include Tu'i Pelehake, Tupouto'a, 'Ulukalala, Vaea, Kalaniuvalu, Tungi [the Prince Consort] would take their position behind the Tanoa and Taukava people. Taking their position within the Tou'a amongst where the people sit behind the Taukava people transforms the Tou'a to Tou'a Eiki.

Brief Family Tree

Information provided below was referenced from publicly available information and stories written by RA Derrick in his book A History of Fiji, AC Reid Tovata I&II, A History of Fiji by RA Derrick and other related journals by John Spurnway.

This is a very brief summary of family connections to tribal Fijian communities accessed from recent work conducted by the Leadership Team of the Yavusa to trace each family tree lines (in alphabetical order) to their ancestors' origins:

Fatafehi

The family is direct descendants of Fatafehi Kaikuli who married Tupoutu'a (youngest daughter of Finau Ulukalala I 'i Ma'ofanga, 4th Tui Vavau and Mafimatapoko of Ha'apai). Tupoutu'a was also younger sister of Finau Tupouniua 7th Tui Vavau as referenced in the Family Rakai).

Fatafehi Kaikuli was son of Fuanuniva and 'Anaukiheheva as referenced in the Pedigree Chart of Manu Keiano, of Utungake Vava'u, dated 1919. Fatafehi Kaikuli's son Fatafehi (Sailosi) Fa'one was one of the five Tongan missionaries personally selected by King George I being the first lot of teachers who arrived on 26 June 1838 in Oneata, then Lakeba before being re-directed to various parts of Fiji. The teachers were Joeli Bulu (for many years Cakobau's own minister in Bau), John Havea, Juilus Naulivou (King's brother in law), Wesley Langi, Jeremiah Latu and Sailosi Faone [the hereditary chief of one of the islands in the Haofuluhao group in Vavau) as referenced in A History of Fiji by RA Derrick pp 128.

Sailosi Faone married Lolohea (d/o Popanatui and Tonga) and had Manu Taunaholo, Hesisipa Liumeitupou (married Paula Moala Keiano see Vakauliafa family), and Alipate Fatafehi (oldest entry in the VKB Togalevu, born in 1849) who married Luisa Moala Lasike (1874, daughter of Pita Lasike and Akosita Liu Tovehi, Entry #25 in Tongalevu VKB) and had Wilisoni Pau'u who married firstly Luseane Mafi and secondly Kalolaini Waimoana Fonolahi and Sisilia Vakaloloma [1917].

  • Wilisoni Pau'u's siblings include Melenaite Ugatea [1921], Salote Vulase (1925), Meleane Tupoutu'a (1927), Salesi Moimoi Lasike [1929] [with Fusi Meleane], Alipate Fatafehi II (1929), Ane Lupe Tolelei (1931), Lupe Puleiwai Fatafehi (1933), Manu Tupou Taunaholo (1935), Jekesoni Qisa (1936), Mele Moala Luisa (1939), Etuate Jio (1940) Wilisoni Pau'u (1942), Peni Pulu (1946), Anaseini Ravesi (1947) and Isikeli Daunibau (1949)
  • Meleane Tupoutu'a [1927] had Taufa Uliuli [1956], Kalolaini Vaimoana Kafoatu [1956]
  • Alipate Fatafehi II [1929] married Mere Warusiu Manusiu [1948] and had Filisi June Lessin Fatafehi [1964], Ana Seini Fatafehi [1966], Toafili Moeunga Fatafehi [1968], Sailosi Fa'onelua Fatafehi [1970], Palu Otaia Fatafehi [1972]
  • Peni Pulu [1946] had Seluwaia Hawaii Fatafehi [1969], Manu Tupou Taunaholo Jnr [1971], Louise Marie Fatafehi [1973], Tomasi Ledua Viliame Fatafehi [1978]
  • Isikeli Daunibau[1949] had Dion Paul T Fatafehi [1971]
  • Sisilia Vakaloloma [1917] had Tevita Mudu Fatafehi [1947]

Fine

This family is direct descendant of Melevesi Fugafaimata [born in 1898] who had the following siblings: Josaia Fine Mateaki [1911, father from Nakoro], Latu Elina Holakitonga [1919, father from Tonga], and Litiana Qolouvaki [1921, father from Rewa]

Melevesi Fugafaimata and her sisters Mele Manusiu (married Josateki Wainiqolo Tovehi), Mele Tupou's mother, Elina Feke and brothers Taufa, Taniela were direct descendants of Kosi (brought to Sawana by Sione Mafi) and Tonga Kulaya [1849, entry 68 in the Vavau VKB, one of Elenoa Gataialupe's lady in waiting and daughter of Kuli Vailea Luani and Mele Hola. Kuli Vailea Luani can be traced back to the Luani II line in Vavau).

  • Josaia Fine Mateaki son of Melevesi Fugafaimata, his father from the Yavusa Naturuku in Nakoro of Lomaloma. He married Adi Bale from Taveuni with connections to chiefly families in Vuna and Somosomo. Josaia Fine Mateaki's siblings include Tupou Matahiwa [1936], Malakai Faha [1937 with Litiana Vakaola], Viliame Feoko Toluhiva [1939], Sulueti Meretoka [1941], Mere Ofa Talahiva [1943], Toga Kulaya [1946], Ilaijia Tuivuna [1948], Ana Masikete [1950], Sepola Mateaki [1953], Mele Toto Fugawai [1956] and Josaia Fine Mateaki [1958].
  • Latu Elina Holakitonga married Jone Koto and had Titilia Mouga [1939], Isieli Nimaono [1941], Fine Fokimoui [1945], Fiealuki Toga Elina [1946], Rusiate Teufolau [1948] and Mele Folaukovi [1954]
  • Litiana Qolouvaki married Samisoni Rakai [see Family Rakai]

Mele Manusiu married Josateki Wainiqolo Tovehi [see Tovehi Family]

Elina Feke had issue with Tevita Punou as reference in the Vave Family

Taufa married Laisa and had Kesaia Mounga [1872 entry #37 in the Ha'apai VKB] who married Latunipulu - descandents of Jone Ofa [1900 entry #6 in the Ha'apai VKB].

  • Jone Ofa [1900] had Jone Ledua [1946], Latu Nipulu Lutuni Pulu [1953], Melesiale Ofa [1944], Mere Warusia Manusiu [1948], Pisila Timina [1955]

Foiakau

Foiakau is direct descendants of Jackson Pupunu who married Mele Ugatea. Jackson Pupunu is direct descendant of Finau Ulukalala III the 10th Tui Vavau whose sister Hala'evalu Mohe'ofo - was mother of Queen Salote Lupepau'u I, one of King George Tupou 1's wives and Elenoa Gataialupe who married Enele Ma'afu 'O Tu'i Tonga.

Finau Ulukalala III Moengangongo, 10th Tu'i Vavau are descandents from Ulukalala I, 4th Tu'i Vavau - common ancestories with Finau Tupouniua 7th Tui Vavau the descendants of the Rakai Family in Sawana.

Jackson Pupunu and Mele Ungatea had Loata, Tevita Koloi and Sione Foiakau I who married firstly Pahulu and had Ana Finau [born in 1857 married Tevita Punou], and Jimaima Olotomu [ married William Hennings]. Sione Foiakau I married secondly Sulueti Luvu [from Tu'anuku and one of Elenoa Gataialupe's ladies in waiting] and had Asipeli Weamalohi [born in 1874 and second entry in the Vavau VKB] and Josefa Celua [born in 1877 and fourth entry in the Vavau VKB].

Ana Finau [1857](married firstly Josateki Wainiqolo Tovehi) and had Makereta Polaunga Tovehi (married Siosaia (Jeke) Rakai. Ana Finau married secondly Tevita Punou Vave (see Vave Family). Ana Finau also had Emele Va'emanu [1898] and Eka Kafoatu [1901]

  • Makereta Polaunga married Siosaia [Jeke] Rakai as referenced in the Rakai Family. See also Family Tovehi
  • Emele Va'emanu had Mele Loiloi [1917], Litiana Vakaola [1919] and Ela Mafi Faha [1923], Nikotimasi Falemaka [1925], Vilisoni Lolohea [1927] and Ane Koto [1934] with Arthur Evans.
  • Eka Kafoatu [born 1901] had Sinipati Toutai [1931]. She married Josefa Siaki as referenced in the Vakauliafa family.

Jimaima Olotomu had Dr Saimsoni Fotu (born in 1896 with William Hennings).

  • Samisoni Fotu [1896] married firstly a lady from Kadavu and had Jone Fotu [1916], Tevita Fotu [1919], Seini Fotu [1920], Mele Vatu [1922], Sisilia Tupou Fotu [1925], Jimaima Fotu [1930], Eroni Vanuasoqo Fotu [1934], Keleise Fotu [1935]; married secondly Kolokesa Uafa Fotofili and had Koloiwakatau Fotu [1950], Ana Galutoto Fotu [1952] and Tofua Fotu [1953]
  • Jone Fotu [1916] married Kalolaine Uheina Tovehi [1934] and had Samisoni Vakacegu Fotu [1953], Asaeli T Fotu [1958], Liku Fine [1959]
  • Tevita Fotu [1918] had Sisilia Tupou [1947]

Asipeli Veamalohi [1874] was selected as Turaga ni Mataqali Tonga in 1937, married firstly Sera Tovehi and had Akosita Tuicakau [1903], Kalolaine Tule [1905], Me Finau [1912] and married secondly Kelesi [1888] [a Samoan lady] and had Sulueti Luvu [1928] [married Josateki Mataitakei Wainiqolo]. The VKB Vavau also recorded Peni Tiko [1911] whose son Laitia Tawayaga [1939] under Asipeli Veamalohi.

Josefa Celua [1877] married firstly Sinu Salalola and had Seremaia Sovea [1897], Viliame Kolimature [1903]; married secondly Sera Fifita Wainiqolo (d/o Nikolase Wainiqolo, s/o Siosateki Talia'uli Wainiqolo)and had Viliame Lalakai [1907], Mele Folau [1905] (married Ratu Miller), Fusi Pasepa [1908] (married Simione Vakauliafa), Meleoni Lolohea [1910] (married Sekona Tovehi), Jone Foiakau II [1912] (married Salome Vaioleti Rakai), Jimaima Olotomu [1917] (married Lilo), Akanesi Waisioa [1919] (married Mosese Luani) and Viliame Tuilewa [1921]

  • Seremaia Sovea [1897] had the following siblings: Joji Vereti Sovea [1926], Sepesa Bale [1929], Viliame Ogosia [1937], Filomena Takayawa [1932] and Kalolaine Kelesi [1934] married the current Tui Naturuku from Nakoro
  • Joji Vereti Sovea [1926] had Bale Caji [1948], Mouga Ofakitoga [1952], Elenoa Savubula [1954], Pita Caqe [1955], Viliame Lutu [1957], Sovea Kotoilevuka [1960], Sera Cokaibulu [1962], Vilisoni Foiakau [1965], Sereima Takayawa [1966]
  • Jone Foiakau II [1912] married Salome Vaioleti Rakai [1918]. Jone Foiakau II had the following siblings: Inoke Raiwaqari [1933], Josefa Mafuataimi [1939], Josifa Moala [1941], Sulueti Luvu [1942], Saini Anabekabeka [1944], Sailosi Foiakau [1951], Josaia Jeke [1953], Viliame Finau [1955], Laiki Waha [1956],

Foiakau has family connection via marriage to the current Tui Naturuku

Fonolahi

Viliame Fonolahi born in 1861, a Tongan Minister married Setaita Miller [1876]. Setaita Miller was daughter of Henry Miller and Anne Ruby Blake (who was daughter of Alexander Blake and Matelita Tonga from the village of Tefisi in Vava'u).

Viliame Fonolahi was son of Sofaia Tu'inavu (daughter of Rev Tu'inavu a missionary based in Lakeba) and Usaia Topui (Tungi's matapule in Mu'a. Led the attempted assassination of an unpopular Rev Shirley Baker who ran the country under Tupou II's reign and led to his demise in Malinoa in 1887).

Usaia Topui's descendands can be traced back to Tongan Chief Tawake who was killed by Mara's men in Levuka in March 1855 and his wife Lupe. He was part of the Tongan delegation of King Taufa'ahau Tupou I on route to Bau for the Battle of Kaba. As the Tongan delegation rested in Moturiki on a Sunday, Chief Tawake in his canoue was sent to Levuka to deliver message from the Tahitian Missionaries. As he landed in Levuka, Mara's men ambushed them and he was shot dead - as reference in RA Derrick's A History of Fiji pp 113. Chief Tawake can be traced back to Luani II in Vavau.

Viliame Fonolahi had Elenoa Latutama [1898], Luseane Qolikoro [1899] (married Samuela Fiemoefiafi Wainiqolo), Tagici Lili [1904], Sofaia Mini [1906], Kalolaini Veimoana [1908](married Wilisoni Pau'u Fatafehi), Jone Rabici [1908] (married Seruwaia), Mere Tuisalala [1910] (married Ratu Keni), Ilaisa Kaukiono [1912] and Salome Walu [1921].

  • Lusiana Qolikoro was mother to the late Ratu Sir Kamisese Kapaiwai Tuimacilai Mara, who served as Prime Minister and President of Fiji. Ratu Mara's father being Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba III, who held the title of Turaga na Tui Nayau. She married Samuela Feimoefiafi Wainiqolo [refer to Wainiqolo Family]
  • Jone Rabici [1908] had the following siblings: Anare Mila [1935], Josaia Loukie [1936], Sofaia Tuidravu, Paula Vura (Manako) [1938], Viliame Fonolahi [1940] and Jione Laki Fonolahi [1948].
  • Mere Tuisalalo (1910 - 1982) married and became the first wife of the Turaga na Rasau, Ratu Keni Naulumatua head of the Yavusa Buca from Nakoro.
  • The youngest of Viliame's children was Ilaisa Kaukiono born in 1912, had issue with Ratu Sir Edward Tuivanuavou Tugi Cakobau (1908-1973. Their child, Ratu Tui's first, was Ratu Viliame Dreunimisimisi.

Fotofili

Eroni Fotofili I was married to Vilimaina Saulo and had Arieta Suguvanua [3 May 1863] (married Mataiasi Vave II), Serosi Fifita [23 Dec 1865], Viliame Taufa [12 Apr 1867], Mosese Siakumi [6 Jan 1870], Siaosi Nala Taiviti [18 July 1872] was Buli Tikina of Lomaloma (married Kalolaine Lolo [1875] from Tovehi) and Eroni Fotofili II [20 March 1875].

Eroni Fotofili I first landed in Matuku. He was part of the Tongan delegation of over 2000 Tongans mostly from Vavau that accompanied King Tupou I and took part in the battle of Kaba in 1855. He was injured and turned to Christianity where he became one of the Teachers supporting Missionaries and served in Rewa, Bau and Bua. He settled in Sawana when Ma'afu set up his head quarters at Loto'a. He travelled to Australia as part of a mission and died there at a young age.

Eroni Fotofili II was married to Luseane Si'ulua Wainiqolo [1884] (#71 entry in the Vava'u VKB], second daughter of Nikolase Moala (s/o Siosateki Talia'uli Wainiqolo) - and had Viliame Tuitofua [1901] (married Salome Tovehi], Mosese Siakumi [1903], Vilimaina Saulo [1905](married Walker), Arieta Suguvanua [1907](married Sione Mahe), Eroni Fotofili III [1914] (married Tupou}, Nikolasa Falekava [1919], Taufa Tofua [1921] (married Tui Serua), and Kolokesa Uafa [1924](married Dr Samisoni Fotu).

Luseane Si'ulua Wainiqolo's mother Alapasita had strong ties to the Ha'a Havea and to the noble titles of Fielakepa and Fakafanua. Through the Fotofili's patrilineal connections they are connected also to nobles Kalaniuvalu and Fotofili.

  • Viliame Tuitofua [1901] married Salome Vaioleti Tovehi [1904] and had the following: Kalolaine Lolo [1924], Ropate Upi (Worbey) [1925], Tevita Donukinakauvadra [1926], Juta Akapulu [1933], Luseane Si'ulua [1935], Mele Alapasita [1937] and Mosese Jiakumi [1940].
  • Ropate Upi [1925] had Akanesi Fatai [1947] and Velavela Baravi [1948] [daughters of Rigieta Mate], Halaniu Kolokesa Uafa [1954], Jovesa Tagivetaua [1955] [so of Mele Manuna Lasike], married Ratabu from Mualevu and had Isikeli Tuiwailevu Fotofili [1971]
Akanesi Fatai [1947] married Kadi and had Sailosi, ...
Velavela Baravi [1948] married Isireli Sema and had Sai Vulibeci and Simione Sema
Jovesa Tagivetaua [1953] had Jiuta Akapulu Fotofili [1976], Melaia Viavia Fotofili [1977], Tevita Lasike Fotofili [1978], Vitinia Cavu Fotofili [1982], Jovesa Tagivetaua Fotofili [1988]
  • Tevita Donukinakauvadra [1926] had Lealiki Pau'u (Bese) Fotofili [1974]
  • Juta Akapulu [1933] married Penina and had Avoloka Epeli [1956], Arieta Suguvanua [1958], Fane Mouga [1960], Viliame Tuitofua Fotofili [1970]
  • Luseane Si'ulua [1935] with Isikeli Mateivuda had Mateialona [1959], Lavinia and Manueli George Fotofili [1966]
  • Mele Alapasita [1937] married Tevita Talanoa Ukelele Rakai
  • Mosese Jiakumi [1940] married Vitinia and had Ropate Opi Fotofili [1966], Etuate Cavu Fotofili [1967], Fifita Fotofili [1968], Eroni Fotofili [1971], Moses Jiakumi Fotofili [1972]
  • Mosese Siakumi [1903] had Lisikoveni Fotofili [1933], Melaia Fotofili [1933], Akanesi Lupe [1937], Viliame Tuitofua [1948] and Luisa Fotofili
  • Vilimaina Saulo [1905] married Ernest Fearon Walker and had Charles Walker [12 June 1928]
  • Charles Walker [1928] married Adi Davila Uluiviti and had Martha Jean Walker [1959], Lilian Davila Walker [1961], Ernest Fearon Walker [1972]
  • Arieta Suguvanua [1907] married Sione Mahe (Tokatoka Tongalevu) and had Kasanita Kolo Mahe [1927], Lupe Akanisi Mahe [1928], Laite Kateni Mahe [1931], Mereseini Bulirara Mahe [1933], Folau Jini Mahe [1935]
  • Eroni Fotofili III [1914] had the following siblings: Tevita Tuamohe Fotofili [1950], Lisiate Fotofili [1954], Vilimaina Saulo Fotofili [1952], Jale Fotofili [1957], Kabu Ocanavanua [1958] and Jiaoji Nala [1962]
  • Tevita Tuamohe Fotofili [1950] had Peni Kauvalenibula [1974], Eroni Fotofili [1983], Waimoana Yvonne Saulo Fotofili [1993]
  • Jale Fotofili [1957] married Lusiana and had Tevita Tuamoheloa Fotofili [1987], Tomasi Daunakamakama Fotofili [1989], Meri Vika Ofakipulotu Fotofili [1992],
  • Nikolasa Falekava [1919] had the following siblings: Mele Lositika, Taufa Tofua Fotofili, Viliame Fotofili, Samisoni Kaitu'u Tokotana, Sioeli Laukau Fotofili, Apisai Nau Fotofili,

Like the Vave, Fotofili has tribal family connections to the house of the Tui Bua of Vanua Levu and Tui Serua in Viti Levu. Fotofili also has connections via marriage to the Rasau family in Nakoro and many families within Vanuabalavu and Fiji.

Lasike

Tevita Lasike [born in 1889 and married Fusi Meleane Vave] and had Salesi Moimoi Lasike and Mele Manuna. Tevita Lasike, 4th entry in the Tongalevu VKB [initially assumed as descendant of Tupou Lasike, Tupou Toutai's twin brother and sons of Finau Tupouniua] is shown in the Yavusa Tonga family tree as son of Pita Lasike of the Lasike noble line in Tonga and Akosita Liu Tovehi. This link shows the close connection between the Lasike and Tovehi clans who currently reside in Sawana.

Fusi Meleane Vave had Isikeli Mateivuda Vave[1925, birth entry into the Vavau VKB], Salesi Moimoi Lasike [s/o Wilisoni Pau'u birth entry into Tongalevu VKB] and Mele Manuna Lasike [d/o Tevita Lasike with birth entry under Tongalevu VKB]

  • Salesi Moimoi Lasike [1929] had Faranisese Lasike [1951], Tevita Lasike [1952] Laisane Leba Moimoi [1954], Meleane Tupou Lasike [1956], Jone and Semisi Lasike [1957], Folau Amau Lasike [1961], Boyan Lasike [1962], Po'alo'i Faekinake Lotu Lasike [1963]
  • Faranisese Lasike [1951] had Salesi Moimoi Lasike [1980], Tevita Lasike [1982], Sione Lasike [1984], Tuipulotu Sika Lasike [1985], Rachel Praticia Lasike [1987]
  • Tevita Lasike [1952] had Kalivatu Tuinabua Lasike [1976]
  • Semisi Lasike [1957] had Laisane Lepa Lasike [1980], Solomoni Vukitu Lasike [1983], Timote Fifita Lasike [1984], Po'aloi Fifita Lasike [1987]
  • Boyan Lasike [1962] had Faranisese Lasike [1991]
  • Po'alo'i Faekinake Lotu Lasike 1963 had Boyan Fifita Faeki Lasike [1997], Tawake Samisoni Ofa ki Muli Lasike [2001]
  • Mele Manuna Lasike [1933] had Josefa Ratubua Mata [1953], Jovesa Tagivetaua Fotofili, Pita Tuidraki [1960] and Milika [1962]
  • Josefa Ratabua Mata [1953] had Milika Noroimuli Lasike [1976], Fusi Meleane [1978], Salaseini Ofakiperetania [1980], Anometa Heimoana [1985], Kalolaine Uheina Fakamanatu i Utui [1983], Anare Tuidraki Lasike [1992]

Tovehi

The family Tovehi are direct descendants of Sione Tovehi and Salome Fifita. Sione Tovehi was a Tongan Missionary who taught Christianity at Moturiki about the time the Tongans landed there on a Sunday (24 March 1855) for rest on their way to Bau to assist Cakobau in the battle of Kaba in 1855. Sione Tovehi and Salome Fifita had Akosita Liu [her daughter Luisa Moala married Alipate Fatafehi I], Asaeli Tovehi [married Ema Taufa] and Peni Tovehi [married Ana Katoa].

Asaeli Tovehi [1850 approx] had Josateki Wainiqolonibitu Tovehi [1870], Kalolaini Lolo Tovehi [1875](married Siaosi Nala Fotofili) and Sera Tovehi (married Asipeli Weamalohi Foiakau), Tapuosi, Melesiana and Holomua.

  • Josateki Wainiqolonibitu Tovehi [1870] married firstly Ana Finau Foiakau and had Makereta Polaunga Tovehi (she married Siosaia Jeke Rakai), married secondly Mele Manusiu {from the Famili Fine] and had Viliame Makasiale [1899], Akanesi Veicavuyaki [1895], Tevita Ofa.
  • Makereta Polaunga Tovehi married Siosaia Jeke Rakai [see Rakai Family below].
  • Akanesi Veicavuyaki [1895] married firstly Ma'ake Tukituku, Siosaia Jeke Rakai's younger brother [see Rakai Family below]. (A bit of history - the term 'veicavuyaki' referred to Ma'afu's tacking his sails between Lomaloma and Mualevu as he sails his island.) She married secondly Bili from Susui. One of her sons Tevita Waqa [1937] is registered under Tovehi, VKB Ha'apai
Tevita Waqa [1937] married Folau Jini Mahe [1935] and had Mereseini Waioleti [1967], Litiola Teukimuli [1968], Fifita Holomu'a [1970], Sione Luita Mahe Waqa [1971]
  • Viliame Makasiale Tovehi[1899] married Mele Tupou [1904]. His siblings include: Peni Tovehi [1929] [with Emele Va'emanu], Viliame Heivailiku [1929], Tevita Naulumatua [1930], Solomone Hala'api'api [1932], Mele Mouga Talahiva [1934], Semisi Vaiagina [1937], Albany Bogidrau Ofakilodoni [1946]

Peni Tovehi [1862] married Ana Katoa [1871] and had Sekona [1900] (married firstly Lisikoveni Vave and secondly Meleoni Lolohea Foiakau), Jale Tovehi [1902], Salome Vaioleti [1904] (married Viliame Tuitofua Fotofili) and Jone Tameifuna Tovehi [1906] (married firstly Volau from the Yavusa Qala, Ravunisa clan and secondly Litiana Vakaola, Emele Va'emanu's daughther) the youngest of this family.

  • Sekona's [1900] siblings include Asaeli Moala [1922], Talanoa Moala Tovehi [1924], Ema Taufa [1920], Ane Tuamaumi [1926], Akanesi Lupe [1930], Amelia Tauhakau [1931]
  • Jale Tovehi's [1902] siblings include Vula Tovehi [1925]
  • Salome Vaioleti [1904] married Viliame Tuitofua Fotofili as referenced in the Fotofili Family
  • Jone Tameifuna's [1906] siblings include Sokopeti Tameifuna [1933], Kalolaine Uheina [1934], Akanesi Makaoo [1936], Aisake Tokotaha [1940] selected as the fourth Liuliu ni Mataqalai in 2013 and Ana Katoa [1942]
  • Sokopeti Tameifuna [1933] married to Tuvuca
  • Kalolaine Uheina [1934] married Jone Fotu Foiakau as referenced in the Foiakau Famili
  • Aisake Tokotaha [1940] married Sela and had the following: Jone Tameifuna [1962], Ikani Tokotaha Tovehi [1963], Ofa Tokotaha [1966], Sekona Taufa Tovehi [1967], Aisake Tokotaha Tovehi [1969], Ratu Anare Drigi Tokotaha [1971] {named after Ravunisa Ratu Anare Drigi}, Salome Waioleti Tokotaha [1975], William Hatch Paeai Sawana Tokotaha [1977]

Vaka'uliafa

Simione Vaka'uliafa (married Fusi Pasepa Foi'akau) - son of Siotame Taumoefolau (son of Paula Moala Keiano and Hesisipa Liumeitupou from the Fatafehi Family) and Funaki Malupo daughter of Adi Kakua and Soane Malupo. Adi Kakua was daughter of Ratu Viliame Kubuavanua (son of Ratu Tanoa Visawaqa (Bau) and Adi Rekinavanua (Nakorotubu - Ra) ) and Susana Lupe.

Soane Malupo descendant can be traced back to the 13th Malupo in Ha'apai. Malupo was one of the 20 Nobles recognised by King George I. He assisted King George in the last stand by Laufilitonga - last Tui Tonga in the battle of Velata where he was conclusively defeated. Malupo was a noble from the island of Uiha, in Ha'apai supported his friend also from Ha'apai - Taufa'ahau but Malupo was also married to Fatafehi, Laufilitonga's [Tu'i Tonga] sister. Two of Malupo's sons (Saulala and Hapeafava) fought against their uncle and saw the demise of the last Tui Tonga....

Siotame Taumoefolau was son of Hepisipa Liumeitupou and Paula Moala Keiano. Hepisipa Liumeitupou, Alipate Fatafehi and Tupou Taunaholo are all descendants of Fatafehi Sailosi Fa'one and Lolohea as referenced in Fatafehi Family listed above.

Simione Vaka'uliafa and Fusi Pasepa Foi'akau had Kalipasi Vakaraici [1927], Sale Waisale [1928], Sela Fifita [1930], Tokoma'ata [1933], Jone Tu'uta [1936], Jone Nalebau [1938], Simione Vaka'uliafa [1939], Hesisipa Liumeitupou [1941], Josaia Mosa'ati [1943], Tevita Malo'iola Fotu [1946] and Akanesi Kakua [1950]

  • Kalipasi Vakaraici [1927] had Paula Moala [1957]
  • Sale Waisale [1928] married Sera and had Meleane Niufo'ou [1948], Penioni Turagamaimuri [1950], Jaoji Taholo [1953], Ema Tupou [1955], Pasepa Fusi [1957], Lewaseini Takayawa [1961], Yabaki Kaibati [1968]
  • Tokoma'ata [1933] married Tupou Matahiwa Mateaki and had Umufuke Niumaetau [1954], Susu Usunavanua [1956], Manusaula Kafoiovalau [1958], Siosi Fano [1960], Lupe Rekinavanua [1960], Jone Kelo [1962], Tikiko Korocowiri [1965], Jone Foiakau
  • Umufuke Niumaetau [1954] had Simione Niuatau [1977], Eremasi Cama [1978], Tupou Matahiwa [1980], Mere Taligo Niuatau [1982], Sakiusa Tuwai Bulu [1986],
  • Jone Kelo [1962] married Litiana and had Jotame Toko Maata [1986]

Funaki Malupo also married Tiko a gentleman from Matokana village in Ono-i-Lau and had Tevita Fakaifo [1910](married Lanieta from Yasawa), Josefa Siaki [1912] (married Eka Kafoatu], Viliame Kubuavanua [1914] (married Amelia from Nakoro) and Susana Lupe (married Vuniwai Tikiko Korocowiri). The line under the Fijian custom would traditionally have been registered in the Ono VKB but was registered in the Vavau VKB under Simione's request and approved on the basis of the line being deemed Vasu to the Vaka'uliafa Family.

  • Tevita Fakaifo [1910] had Tevita Teqa [1930], Sailosi Rokomotutu [1934], Soani Fagupo [1937], Ilaisane Waqa [1932], Ilikena Tiko [1939], Pauliasi Yabakidua [1942], Akanesi Baleinaivalu [1944], Emasi Kau [1947], Tevita Daulako [1942]
  • Josefa Siaki [1912] had Ana Ulamila Funaki [1935], Kolofihu Siaki [1936]
  • Viliame Kubuavanua [1914] had Ulamila Batinamu [1937], Viliame Buli Kaseti [1939], Nacanieli Tuivuniqori [1940], Litia Kaunilotuma [1942], Viliame Bacogacoga [1946]

Vave

This family is direct descendants of Mataiasi Vave I and Meleane Fusi from the Hakaumotu clan in Vava'u. They had Sioeli Pulu (married Laisane Lepa of Jafau clan from Vulaga), Mataiasi Vave II(married firstly Arieta Suguvanua Fotofili and secondly Adi Fugawai), Sione Tahifote, Unise Vave, Seini Lupe, Setaleki Vave and Sera Vave. Sioeli Pulu, Mataiasi Vave II and Unise Vave settled in Fiji while the rest settled in Tonga.

Sioeli Pulu I had Susana Lolohea [1888] (married Lasarusa Turaga, Yavusa Nadave in Mualevu), Tevita Punou [1886] (married Ana Finau Foiakau), Meleane Fusi [1895](married Tevita Lasike), Mosese Pulu [1889](married Lolohea Waqairawai from Narewa, Tui Nadi), Sulueti Hala'api'api (married Tevita Namuaira of Viseisei), Ana Katokakala (married Arthur Evans) and Akanesi Kakua [1919].

  • Tevita Punou [1886] had issue with Elina Feke (Famili Fine)and had Mahe Punou [1925], Melaia Fusibabalagi and had Akanesi. He married Ana Finau from the Famili Foiakau
  • Susana Lolohea [1888] married Lasarusa Turaga from the Yavusa Nadave, Tokatoka Lomaji Vanua in Mualevu. She had Jone Setareki, Sulueti Luvu, Laisane Leba, Inoke Colati, Seru and Rigieta Mateilekutu.
  • Mosese Pulu [1889] had Joeli Pulu II [1916], Mere Maibole [1917], Mataiasi Talia'uli [1918] and Ana Lini Vave [1921]
  • Joeli Pulu II [1916] had the following siblings: Titilia Yabaniono [1942], Emele Fa'aemanu [1943], Sulueti Hala'api'api [1945], Joeli Pulu III[1947], Penioni Naliva Pulu [1955], Mataiasi Vave [1950] and Samisoni Kaitu'u Vave [1981]
  • Mataiasi Talia'uli [1918] married Kasanita Kolo Mahe [1927 #86 entry in the Togalevu VKB]. Mataiasi Talia'uli had the following: Mosese Pulu Vave [1948], Falemaka Moumea Vave [1948], Sega [1949], Fusi Meleane [1950], Jone Mahe Vave [1952] was the third Turaga ni Mataqali Tonga from 2008 to 2012, Ana Lini [1953], Mele Latu Vave [1961]
  • Fusi Meleane [1895] had Isikeli Mateivuda [1925], Salesi Moimoi and Mele Manuna (as reference in the Lasike Family)
  • Isikeli Mateivuda [1925] with Si'ulua Fotofili had Mateialona [1959], Lavinia, Manueli George Fotofili [1966]. Married Ana Finau and had Mele Manuna [1959], Ha'unga Mate [1960], Moala Tomasi [1961], Viliame Tuilewa, Tafihi Mataiasi [1968], Karalaini Waimoana [1973], Susana Lupe Mateivuda + Fehoko Gadekibau [1978],
  • Sulueti Hala'api'api married Tevita Namuira and had Taniela Namuaira, Luisa, Meli Namuaira and Leqa from Viseisei
  • Ana Katokakala had Setareki Vave Wainiqolo with Samuela Feimoefiafi. She married Arthur Evans and had George Evans, Jack Evans, Moses Evans and Ana Thomas

Mataiasi Vave II born in 1850 is first entry in the Vavau VKB, had Samisoni Kaitu'u [1889], Lisikoveni [1891](married Sekona Tovehi), Ane (married Ratu Ramanakiwai, Tui Bua), Siosefa, Sera Qere Vave [1899] Apaki and Vilisoni

  • Lisikoveni Vave [1891] had the following siblings: Rt Isikeli Tuiwailevu [1921], Asaeli Moala [1922], Talanoa Moala Tovehi [1924], Ane Tuamani [1926], Amelia Tauhakau [1931].

Unise Vave married Sione Waka'uta and had Moala Tomasi who married Mere Latu (from family of Etika and Peni Waqa) from Nakoro. Moala Tomasi developed a very close relationship with the people of Nakoro and was responsible for bringing up the two cousins Isikeli Tuwailevu (s/o of Ratu Sukuna and Lisikoveni Vave) and Setareki Vave Wainiqolo (s/o Ana Katokakala and Samuela Feimoefiafi Wainiqolo)

This family has tribal connection to families in Veiseisei where Sulueti Hala'api'api married Tevita Namuaira of the Sawaieke Clan and Mosese Pulu who married Lolohea Waqairawai from Narewa, Nadi. Vave also has broad family connections to the house of the Tui Bua and many families within Vanuabalavu and Fiji

Wainiqolo

This family is direct descendants of Siosateki Talia'uli Wainiqolo (Enele Ma'afu's warlord and often referred to as the Wellington of the Pacific)

He was born at Longomapu in 1818 descended from Ikameikuate, High Chief of Longomapu and Fusipala Opangai. Ikameikuate's descendents can be traced back to Talia'uli (s/o King Vaea Tangitau (1600 - 1680 8th Tu'i Ha'atakalaua and Lady Sungu of Tubou)). Longomapu is a village on Vava'u with Tu'anuku on one side and Tefisi on the other.

Talia'uli (descendants of Wainiqolo), Luani I (descendants of Ulukalala (Rakai, Foi'akau), Luani II (descendants of Fine and Fonolahi) and Kaloafutonga can all be traced back to Vaea Tangitau, 8th Tu'i Ha'atakalaua (1600 to 1680) and Lady Sungu of Tubou who was a direct descendant of Fotofili 7th Tu'i Ha'atakalaua.

Siosateki Talia'uli Wainiqolo and Melaia Taumoepeau had two sons Nikolase Moala (married Lupe) and had Luseane Si'ulua Wainiqolo [1884 married Eroni Fotofili II] and Sera Fifita Wainiqolo (married Josefa Celua Foiakau).

The second son Viliame Vakautakakala (married Ana Teu born in 1877) and had Melaia Fusibabalagi (born in 1896 married Stockwell), Eseta Vakawaletabua [1898]Samuela Feimoefiafi Wainiqolo (born in 1903 married Luseane Qolikoro), and Tomu Osifani Wainiqolo (born in 1907 married Mele Laumanu)

Samuela Feimoefiafi Wainiqolo was selected as Turaga ni Mataqali Tonga from 1933 to 1937 married Luseane Qolikoro and had Josateki Mateitakei Wainiqolo [1924 married Sulueti Luvu], Setareki Vave Wainiqolo [1925 with Ana Katokakala Vave], Ana Vaitosio Kaneiseni [1926], Viliame Vakautakakala [1928], Setareki Tauhopohopo [1929], Alikisanita Faletoto [1930], Taufa Vaifo'ou Lulu [1935] and Akanesi Ofakilomaloma [1937].

  • Josateki Mateitakei Wainiqolo [1924] had the following: Penisimani Duluatevoro (Takai) [1944], Eseta Viaviamarama [1945] (Colati), Ilaisa Manukaiopa [1946], Wea Malokifaiamoe (Fihi) [1947], Sinema Mele [1949], Pei (Ana Mona), Teu'ila [1951] (Rigieta Mateilekutu), Halatoa [1952], Penisimani Latu [1953], Lili Falei Fatai [1954], Malakai Manatuwamamao [1956], Ane Koto [1956], Falaola Onetale [1957] (Kiti), Tagoona Helina Wainiqolo [1958], Tevita Ewa [1959], Josaia Finemateaki [1960], Lusia Latailomaloma [1967], Ramasima Vakawaletabua [1965]
  • Penisimani Duluatevoro [1944] had Joana Ugatea [1969], Josateki Wainiqolo [1971], Isileli Faiva [1972], Senirosivula ... Wainiqolo [1978], Sione Kinahoi [1981], Josateki Wainiqolo [1989], Siteri Folaukitoga [1989]
  • Penisimani Latu [1953] had Jone AndrewnWainiqolo [1981], Sinema Sulueti Ane Folau Latailomaloma Wainiqolo [2001]
  • Setareki Vave Wainiqolo [1925] married Sereima from Yavusa Qala had the following: Lavinia Kau [1945], Asaeli Vave [1946], Ana Kafo [1947], Jone Tahifote [1948]

Tomu Osifani Wainiqolo had Ailene Penina Falefatai [1936], Batila Bale [1939], Lataivaitahi Eseta [1941], Oketi Olesi Wainiqolo [1943], Fotu Wainiqolo [1945], Samuela Feimoefiafi Wainiqolo [1947], Asena Laukanitoafe [1950], Maca Tikoivalemate [1951], Jone Sokai [1952], Soane Basalusalu [1953] and Manu Pukinatu [1955]

  • Bale Batila [1939] had Viliama Volainayavusatonga Wainiqolo [1976], Eseta Vosavere [1978], Walesi Wainiqolo [1965] (with Elina), Manoa Taleinibulakinadavo Raikadroka [1986] (with Pasimaca)
  • Samuela Feimoefiafi Wainiqolo [1947] had Mele Laumanu Wainiqolo [1979], Solomone Mate Wainiqolo [1980], Sowane Basalusalu Wainiqolo [1984]
  • Jone Sokai [1952] had Filimone Wainiqolo [1975]

Rakai

This family is direct descendant of Kuli Ha'apai and Meleane Fatafehi of Vavau. Kuli Ha'api was son of Tupou Toutai (son of Finau Tupouniua and Tupou Veiongo) and Usuavanua (daughter of Tu'ihalafatai 9th Tu'i Kanokupolu 1777 -1782 before abdicating and left for Fiji ref pp 123 A History of Fiji by RA Derrick.))

Tupou Toutai and his twin brother Tupou Lasike were sons of Finau Tupouniua 7th Tu'i Vavau and Tupou Veiongo d/o of Mumui, 13th Tu'i Kanokupolou and Tule. They spent time in Lakeba with their uncle Sefanaia Lualala after arriving there in 1840 before the arrival of Ma'afu in Fiji in 1848 - ref pp 126 and 127 A History of Fiji by RA Derrick. Finau Tupouniua 7th Tu'i Vavau a direct descendant of Finau Ulukalala 'i Ma'ofanga, 4th Tu'i Vavau and the 1st Ulukalala originated from Tu'anuku in Vavau. Finau Ulukalala 'i Ma'ofanga was son of Tuituiohu 3rd Tu'i Vavau (s/o Mata'eleha'amea 4th Tu'i Kanokupolu and Talaumoteomoa) and Fatafehi Latuifuipeka daughter of Latunipulu'iteafua 5th Tu'i Lakepa.

Tuitui'ohu was younger brother of Ma'afu'otu'itonga who was next (6th) Tu'i Kanokupolu - he left Tongatapu and travelled to Vavau and started the dynasty of the Ha'a Ngatatupu.

The Yavusa family tree traces Tuitui'ohu to Luani I, descendant of King Va'ea Tangitapu 8th Tui Ha'atakalaua and Lady Sugu of Tubou - also descendants of Talia'uli I and Kaloafutonga as referenced in the Wainiqolo family tree. Vaea Tangitapu is direct descendant of Fotofili the 7th Tu'i Ha'atakalaua and his brother Ngata the 1st Tu'i Kanokupolu. These two brothers were sons of Tu'i Moungatonga 6th Tu'i Ha'atakalaua who initiated the formation of the third line - the Tu'i Kanokupolu in 1610AD.

Finau Tupouniua and his brother Finau Ulukalala were renown for the battles fought against Ha'apai and Togatapu with the two brothers responsible for the killing of Tuku'aho, 14th Tui Kanokuplou in his bed in Mua in 1799. Later Tupouto'a, Tuku'aho's son extracted revenge when he was involved in the murder of Finau Tupouniua as reference in RA Derrick's A History of Fiji pp 123. Tupouto'a was King Taufa'ahau's father.

As an example of some of the extensive connection of the Yavusa Tonga in Fiji, Kuli Ha'apai's sister Hon Pauline Lupe married Hon Inoke Matafonuafotu Veikune and had a daughter Tupoutu'a later Adi Tupoutu'a who married Ratu Timoci Tavanavanua son of Ratu Seru Cakobau. This union produced 2 Fijian Princesses renown for their beauty - Adi Litia Cakobau and Adi Teimunmu Vuikaba. Adi Litia Cakobau had issue with King George II of Tonga and had Ratu Edward Tuivanuavou Cakobau and Adi Teimumu married Ratu Lutunauga Bativuaka Tuisawau, the then Roko Tui Dreketi whose son Ratu George Cokanauto Tuisawau - the direct ancestors of Adi Lady Lalabalavu Litia Katoafutoga Tuisawau Mara and current Roko Tui Dreketi Adi Teimumu Vuikaba Tuisawau Kepa

Siosaia (Jeke) Rakai [1876] married firstly Adi Ana Saurara the eldest of the Rasau Clan and had Lolohea Latu Rakai [1912] who married Ratu Senico of the Yavusa Qala and Mele Moala Rakai [1914] who married Roko Nayagodamu - the Rokosau of Totoya. Siosaia (Jeke) Rakai married secondly Makereta Polaunga Tovehi, eldest daughter of Josateki Wainiqolo Tovehi and Ana Finau and had Samisoni Rakai [1920], Latu Holeva Rakai [1921], Seruwaia Lakai [1924], Sailosi Mateialona Kuliha'apai [1925] settled in Tu'anuku, Ane Lakai Olivia [1927], Ma'ake Tukituku [1930], Asipeli Tauveli [1932] and Samuela Onoono [1936] [settled in Levuka]

  • Lolohea Latu Rakai [1912] married Ratu Filipe Senico of the Yavusa Qala and had Mele Latai Rokocati married Emosi Vuakatagane, Mereseini Vosarewa married Peni Tanoa and Luke Uluimela Senico married Adi Keresi Sekaseka i Munia Uluilakeba from the Vuanirewa Clan.
  • Mele Moala Rakai [1914] married Roko Nayagodamu Cinavilakeba, the Rokosau of Totoya and had the following: Rt Eroni Nayagodamu Cinavilakeba, Rt Peni Bulalavu, Rt George Coronation Tuiwaqanui, Rt Aisake Niumataiwalu, Rt Tevita Saulialia, Rt Tevita Tapu'elu'elu, Rt William Nayagodamu Damumaiqaranikula and Rt Onosimo Puamau. The family had sisters Adi Vakacegu, Adi Rua and Adi Ana Saurara
  • Samisoni Rakai [1920] married Litiana Qolouvaki as referenced in the Famili Fine and had Anitere Finau [1937], Manu Bulotu [1939], Tevita Talanoa Ukalele [1941], Milika Kauikeiki [1943], Josaia Finemateaki [1944], Tubou Tawake [1945], Katalaini Waiagina [1947], Merevesi Fugafaimata [1949], Josaia Tupoufinemate [1951], Seneti Elini Lakai [1953]
  • Samisoni Rakai [1920] married Rigieta Mateilekutu as referenced in the Famili Vave and had Vosarewa Rakai [1955], Luisa Ma'u [1956], Akariva Tawake [1959], Eroni Vanuasoqo [1960], Ane Evakilonitoni [1963], Poasa Vakadewavanua Rakai [1964], Mele Fifita Itanoa [1966], Talefolaukovi Rakai [1968]
  • Latu Holeva Rakai [1921] had Mele Lositika Fotofili with Falekawa Fotofili, Adi Marica Dawai [daughter of Rt Naulia Napolioni Dawai] and Sotia Natuilagilagi [s/o Mosese Natuilagilagi of Ono]
  • Seruwaia Lakai [1924] married Whippy and had Joanna Ewins, Ada Prins Whippy, Arthur Whippy, Debra Whippy. She married secondly Roko Tui Vuma and had Kalara Tawake and Suliasi Tawake
  • Sailosi Mateialona Kuli Ha'apai [1925] returned to Tu'anuku Vavau and settled on Finau Tupouniua's land and became a naturalised Tongan. He had Latu Fetutuki and Siosaia Toutai
  • Ane Lakai Olivia [1927] married Ahtack and had Mathew Victor Ahtack and Lloyd Desmond Ahtack
  • Marika Rakai Tukituku [1930] married Bulou Kelera Uluinaceva and had Sera Sautini Sinivia Olivia [1959], Raijieli Judith Naitoko [1962]
  • Asipeli Tauveli [1932] married Samoan and had Ma'ake Tukituku and Makereta Polaunga
  • Samuela Onoono [1936] married Marama and settled in Levuka Ovalau

Marika Tukituku, Jeke's younger brother married Akanesi Veicavuyaki (daughter of Josateki Wainiqolo Tovehi and Mele Manusiu). They had Vika Latainayavutoka [1910] [ married Josua Bogidrau [Vuanirewa clan], Luisa Ma'u Kakala [1914], Salome Vaioleti [1918] married Jone Foiakau II, Pauline Lupe [1920] also married into family from the Vuanirewa Clan in Tubou Siaosi Tuwai [1921], Mele Manusiu and Tevita Waqa.

  • Vika Latainavutoka [1910] married firstly Ratu Miller and had Alivereti Tatafu [1934], married secondly Josua Bogidrau of Vunirewa Clan of Tubou and had Sitiveni Yaqona
  • Alivereti Tatafu [1934] married Pei had the following siblings: Tevita Tatafu Miller [1971 with Kalo], Geoffrey Edward Miller [1978], Alfred Hue Miller [1986], Carl Neville Miller [1981], Henry Matolo Miller [1989]
  • Luisa Ma'u Kakala [1914]
  • Salome Vaioleti [1918] married Jone Foiakau II as referenced in the Famili Foiakau
  • Pauline Lupe [1920] married to the Vuanirewa clan and had Peni Dausiga, Jale Moala and Peni Setuata
  • Siaosi Tuwai [1921] married Luseane and had Kuli Ha'apai [1954], Siulua Faiola Rakai [1956] and Akanesi Lupe [1964]

The families of the Yavusa Tonga have many tribal connections and ties to Fijian Tribal households.

Famous People with strong connections to Sawana

Enele Ma'afu, Tui Lau I The founder of Sawana - the Village of the Conquerors as referenced in Lessin's study on the people of Sawana and their history. Ma'afu was born in 1816 and son of Aleamotu'a Tupou 'i Faletuipapai the 18th Tui Kanokupolu and his wife Hon Mele Moala Soakai. Arrived in Fiji in 1848 and slowly extended his control to most of northern and eastern Fiji. Married Elenoa Ngataialupe Lutui in 1840. Established himself in Sawana and his home at Loto'a. Died on 6 February 1881 in Sawana and was held in state for 3 months before he was buried at the Vatanitawake the chiefly burial ground the Sau Tabu in Tubou Lakeba with other great leaders of Lau. Elenoa remainded in Sawana for a short while coordinating the affairs of the Yavusa following the death of Ma'afu before she returned to Tonga and died in Nukualofa in 1885.

Enele Ma'afu in naval uniform taken in 1860

Those who precede or accompanied Maafu in his campaign in Fiji include twin brothers Tupou Lasike and Tupou Toutai (sons of Finau Tupouniua from the Ulukalala clan in Vava'u - the descendants of Rakai and Lasike families) who fought alongside King Tupou 1 during the battle of Kaba on 7 April 1855 and supported the numerous Cakobau campaign in Vanualevu in the Northern and Eastern Fiji with their cousin Finau Fisi and uncle Sefanaia Lualala, Wainiqolonibitu (often referred to as the Wellington of the Pacific - descendants of family Wainiqolo) and Semisi Fifita as recorded in the book A History of Fiji by R A Derrick on page 123 to 127.

The Battle of Kaba was referred to by James Calvert in his journal 'this is a day much to be remembered in Feejee' in his journal 7 April 1855 and referenced by John Spurway in his research 'Inside the Mind of Ma'afu' pp 59, resulted in decisive victory and ensured supremacy of Bau over rival Rewa because of the support provided by the Tongans led by King Tupou I.

Ma'afu and the rest of his people that opted to remain in Fiji settled on the village of Sawana on the island of Vanuabalavu - the island group whose sovereignty (from Tuvuca to Laucala) was given to Ma'afu by Tui Cakau, Tui Kilakila. This process was later confirmed by Raivalita and Golea following passing of Tui Kilakila as referenced in Tovata I and II by AC Reid and pp 131 of 'A History of Fiji' by R A Derrick. These exchanges were also recorded in Mara, The Pacific Way paper.

Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna, Tui Lau II - Born in 1888, as referenced in Lessin's work, was instrumental in advising the Fijian people of the transition from Fiji before Cession to Fiji after Cession and the colonial process of Vei Tarogi Vanua and the clarification process of people and land. He was recommended and accepted the title of Tui Lau recognizing the formation of the TRY Tonga by the people of the Yavusa Tonga in Sawana.

Sawana Day 27 Dec 2007, Naivi Green with Bure where Ratu Mara was born in the background, Sawana.

Ratu Sir Kamisese Kapaiwai Tuimaculai Mara, Tui Lau III - Born on 6 May 1920 at a Bure in Naivi in Sawana, Lomaloma, Vanuabalavu, Lau. The Bure is of special significance and has been properly rebuilt and renovated to recognise its significance. Son of Luseane Qolikoro from the Fonolahi Family and Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba. His connection to Sawana is well documented where he spent most of his vacation in his retirement sailing between Tubou and Sawana.

Famous Sons and Daughters of Sawana

There are numerous sons and daughters of Sawana as listed in the VKB of the Yavusa Tonga. Below are notable sons and daughters that have contributed to the broader welfare of where they reside and have held prominent positions in the Ministry as well as in Public Service

Siosateki Talia'uli Wainiqolo Born at Longomapu in 1818 decsended from Ikameikuate, High Chief of Longomapu and Fusipala Opangai. Ikameikuate's descendents can be traced back to Taliauli (s/o King Vaea Tangitau (1600 - 1680 8th Tui Ha'atakalaua and Lady Sungu of Tubou) - Other descendants of King Vaea include Luani I (descendants of Ulukalala clan in Tu'anuku) and Kaloafutonga. King Vaea Tangitau was son if King Fotofili 7th Tu'i Kanokupolu

He arrived in Fiji as part of Enele Ma'afu's delegation in 1848 and with his counter party led by Semisi Fifita was instrumental in carrying out Ma'afu's expansions in Lau under the pretext of Lotu. Ma'afu with his warlord Wainiqolo and Semisi Fifita his men - achieved a reputation of invincibility as a close knit compact body of men who believed in Ma'afu's exceptional military tactics as referenced in RA Derrick's book on the History of Fiji pp 130.

Was overlord of Cikobia Island and Dravuwalu, Totoya. Wainiqolo campaigned for Ma'afu and Cakobau in Vanualevu and was instrumental in the division of Macuata [led to his banned for life from entering Macuata by the British on board HMS Perolous in 1860]. He took part in the Valu ni Lotu in Vanuabalavu in 1853, Battle of Kaba in 1855 and his ultimate demise when he was shot dead on the shores of Wairiki in July 1862. Ma’afu went for a visit to Tonga with Tui Bua to seek resolution about his campaign in Fiji with Tongan Parliament. During his absence, Wainiqolo waged war on Golea captured the ailing Tui Cakau whilst his people were engaged in another internal quarrel. Wainiqolo and the Tongans subsequently faced the full brunt of the Tui Cakau people and was overcome. Wainiqolo was shot dead on the beach at Wairiki and the Tongans were slaughtered - probably the only defeat that he suffered in his military career.

Mataiasi Vave I - arrived in Fiji about the same time as the arrival of Joeli Pulu (for many years was Cakobau's minister in Bau), Sione Havea, Julius Naulivou, Sailosi Faone, Wesley Langi and Jeremiah Latu on 26 June 1838. He arrived via Oneata, Lakeba and then traveled to Vanuabalavu where he landed at Vutubana near Malaka bringing Christianity to Vanuabalavu among many of his postings. He was responsible for reporting the plot by a group within the Yavusa Qala to kill Ravunisa whom he had taken and sheltered in Susui while he sent for Ma'afu in about April 1854. This incident often referred to as the Valu ni Lotu occurred after the exchanges between Tui Cakau and Ma'afu where Ma'afu took sovereignty over Northern Lau [from Tuvuca to Laucala).

Mataiasi Vave II - Born in 1850 and son of Mataiasi Vave I is the oldest entry in the VKB Tonga, Tokatoka Vava'u. He followed the career of this father and was a minister in the Methodist Church. One of the founders of Davuilevu. He spent time working in Tubou, Lakeba before he retired at his father's home in Vutubana.

Samisoni Fotu born in 1896 was a medical General Practitioner. Son of Olotomu Foiakau and William Hennings hence his direct links to the Foiakau family and forged close relationship with Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba when he spent time in Lomaloma as Clerk to the District Commissioner based at Lomaloma

Viliame Makasiale Tovehi - born in 1899 to Josateki Wainiqolonibitu Tovehi and Mele Manusiu - served the Province of Lau as Roko Tui Lau during Colonial rule and was instrumental in the formalization of the TRY Tonga with his recorded and sworn testimony of the Yavusa. While he was Roko, Ratu Mara was District Officer Maritime

Lusiane Qolikoro Fonolahi born in 1899 daughter of Viliame Fonolahi and Setaita Miller. Though the Fonolahi Family originally settled in Mualevu, the family is listed as a Yavusa Tonga family under Tonga Levu. Luseane Qolikoro and Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba produced a son Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara who was born in Sawana and taken to her brother's home in Mualevu before he was transferred to Tubou, Lakeba where he was brought up as heir to the Vuanirewa clan

Simione Vaka'uliafa born in 1902, was son of Siotame Tokoma'ata from the Tuipulotu line and Funaki Malupo daughter of Adi Kakua and Soane Malupo. Adi Kakua was daughter of Ratu Viliame Kubuavanua (son of Ratu Tanoa Visawaqa and Adi Rekinavanua) and Susana Lupe. He was Buli Tikina of Lomaloma

Mele Tuisalalo Fonolahi born in 1910 daughter of Viliame Fonolahi and Setaita Miller. Married Ratu Keni Naulumatua, Rasau from the village of Nakoro

Ilaisa Kaukiono Fonolahi born in 1912 daughter of Viliame Fonolahi and Setaita Miller. She had issue with Ratu Sir Edward Tuivanuavou Tugi Cakobau (1908-1973). Their child, Ratu Tui's first, was Ratu Viliame Dreunimisimisi.

Josaia Fine Mateaki born in 1911 and son of Melevesi Fugafaimata was Buli Tikina of Lomaloma during Colonial rule. Josaia Fine Mateaki's father was from the Naturuku clan from the adjacent village of Nakoro

Jone Foiakau born in 1912 and son of Josefa Celua and Sera Fifita Wainiqolo was Buli Tikina of Lomaloma

Isikeli Tuiwalevu born in 1921 son of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna and Lisikoveni Vave. Was brought up by Moala Tomasi (son of Unise Vave) his uncle. He served the nation during the second world war as well as during the Malayan campaign. He was shot and wounded in action and suffered injuries that had impacted on his health after his military campaign. An accomplished carpenter who was responsible for the construction of many of the spec houses that still adorned the village of Sawana and other villages of the Tikina of Lomaloma with many still standing today. He was also responsible for the construction of many of the villages' spec cocoa-nut dryers designed by the Agriculture Department and built throughout Lau. As a builder, he supervised and built many copra dryers in Lau. The year he died he had just completed the dryer at Dakuilomaloma, Mualevu and then the copra dryer on the village of Uruone was still being built when he died at the age of 47 in 1968.

Charles Walker CMG

Charles Walker - born in 1928 and son of Vilimaina Saulo Fotofili. Held many positions initially in government before independence in particular the Department of Agriculture before he became a politician and held many ministerial positions as member of the Alliance Party under Ratu Mara's Prime Minister-ship as Minister for Agriculture, Finance and Information before he became a Diplomat and eventually in retirement held positions as member of various Boards including his Chairmanship of the PM's Committee on Sugar Industry Reforms.

While Finance Minister - He was acting on the advice of the IMF to focus attention on revenue producing industries like Tourism and Forestry, he urged the government to control Civil Service Wage Bills and cut government spending. As the government had already committed to a previous agreement with the Unions on wages increase, Hon Charles Walker's proposed cuts would have caused massive upheaval and industrial action by the Civil Service. The Cabinet concerned about the ramification of spending cuts did not support the measures Charles Walker proposed and he felt obliged to resign as a matter of principle. Ratu Mara in his memoir reminisced about his loss from the government being one of his more efficient operators - ref p 219 Mara, The Pacific Way Paper.

Marika Rakai Tukituku - born in 1930 and son of Josaia (Jeke) Rakai and Polaunga Tovehi. Educated at Marist Brothers High School before gaining further education in the UK where he completed his engineering qualification in Civil Engineering and returned to Fiji in 1970. Held many senior government positions in Public Works before he became its first Fijian Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Works in 1973 (reporting initially to Minister for Works, Mr Livai Nasilivata) until he retired. He also held positions as member of various Boards

Solomone Hala'api'api Makasiale Tovehi - born in 1932 and son of Viliame Makasiale Tovehi. He was nominated by Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara in his capacity as Tui Lau as his Mata Raraba ni Tui Lau. He held many senior positions in government including Public Service Commission and in private enterprise. He was one of the foundation Board members of the Yatu Lau company. He also held positions in various Boards.

Semisi (James) Makasiale Tovehi - born in 1937 and son of Viliame Makasiale Tovehi. Following the set up of Pacific Islands Conference at the East West Center in Hawaii as initiated by Ratu Mara in 1980, a development program named Pacific Islands Development Program (PIDP) was set up and James Makasiale was first chair appointed to manage it using his agricultural and development background. He was succeeded by Dr Macu Salato and Filipe Bole.

Manu Tupou Taunaholo Fatafehi - born in 1935 as son of Vilisoni Pau'u Fatafehi and Kalolaine Veimoana Fonolahi. He was well known for his talents in acting, a writer, director and in particular for teaching artists the art of acting and developing his own special brand. He died in 2004 in Los Angeles California and his ashes were scattered at the Toba ko Lomaloma. He played parts in films 'Man Call Horse', 'Hawaii' and also played parts in television series 'Hawaii Five O' 'Fantasy Island' and 'Magnum PI' to name a few. Whilst famous for his talents in the Art World overseas, he never set foot back at Sawana once he left the place

Lavinia Kau Wainiqolo Padarath - born in 1945 daughter of Setareki Vave Wainiqolo and Sereima from the Yavusa Qala in Nakoro. A nurse by trade was member of the Mahendra Chaundry led Fijian Labour party. Entered parliament in 1999 election as Nausori Naitasiri Open Constituency and was minister in this government before the 2000 Speight coup. Failed to regain her seat in 2006 election that saw the Qarase forming government and was appointed to the Senate by Mahendra Chaundry. She was the only parliamentarian that was not in parliament when the coup occurred in 2000. She is the current president of the Fijian Labor Party following death of Jokapeci Koroi

Fusi Meleane Vave - born in 1950 to Mataiasi Talia'uli Vave. Held many senior positions in government and was the first Fijian woman to hold a Permanent Secretary position with the Ministry of Youth and Sports during the Rabuka government

Jone Mahe Vave aka Jone Tuliatu Vave - born in 1952 to Mataiasi Talia'uli Vave. Made a career in the Aviation Industry as an Air Traffic Controller and became General Manager of Operations at the Nadi International Airport before he retired.

Jone Vave was selected as the 3rd Turaga ni Mataqali Tonga from 2008 to 2012. It was only the third time in the history of the Yavusa that this nomination has been made during the periods when the Tui Lau title was vacant.

Following Jone Vave's death on 22 October 2012, a joint meeting of the Yavusa held in Sawana in January 2013 formerlised the appointment of Aisake Tokotaka Tovehi born in 1940 and son of Jone Tameifuna Tovehi as the 4th Turaga ni Mataqali Tonga.

Jale Walker Fotofili - born in 1957 to Eroni Fotofili III. Educated at Adi Maopa Primary School then to Ratu Sukuna Memorial School. He gained his qualification as a secondary school teacher and like many teachers who served in the Education Department with distinction - he ventured into government administration as a bureaucrat and ultimately he currently holds the position of Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, National Security and Immigration. He is the current Chairman of the Yavusa Tonga Committee and Holdings based in Suva.

Completed Water Supply Project
File:Sawana Water Project.JPG
Project Team - installation of the Sawana Water Supply Project - 100,000 litres of additional storage to the village water supply

Michael Solomone Makasiale - born in 1966 son of Solomone Hala'api'api Makasiale Tovehi and Barbara, was Educated in Hawaii and at USP and gained qualification in Accounting and Management. Worked in Commercial sector for over 20 years in management and finance before leading a small privately owned company. Currently provides consultancy HR services to Coca Cola Amatyl Fiji Limited

More space is made available here to add to the list of Sawana famous and favorite sons and daughters ...

References

  • Mara, Ratu Sir Kamisese: "The Pacific Way: A Memoir", page 91. University of Hawaii Press, 1997
  • Fiji Times Newspaper Article, Title: Fiji Born Actor dies, Content: Talks in reference to Manu Tupou the Hollywood actor, of his ties with Lomaloma with reference to Ratu Mara and Adi Mere and Ratu Dreunimisimisi, Fiji Times Saturday June 12, 2004, Fiji Times Archives.
  • Why these unions were important was due to the Vasu connection that brought different tribes together following are examples documenting the Importance of the Vasu connection or maternal lineage in Fiji: as outlined in this Book ‘Matanitu’ the struggle for power in early Fiji by David Routledge 1985,published by the Institute of Pacific studies and the University of the South PacificFiji, Chapter 1 page 36, also see the Book Fiji and the Fijians By Thomas Williams, James Calvert, Ch 2 page 33,34
  • Lau Islands, Fiji By A.M Hocart and Bernice P. Bishop - Museum Bulletin 62 p226, Publication Date: June 1969, Publisher: Kraus Intl Pubns, ISBN 0-527-02168-7, ISBN 978-0-527-02168-9 this book Documents in detail the Rasau and Ratu Keni
  • Fijian Heralds and Envoys., A. M. Hocart, The Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland, Vol. 43, Jan. - Jun., 1913 (Jan. - Jun., 1913), pp. 109–118, doi:10.2307/2843163, Arthur Maurice Hocart does a comparative study on two chiefs and their heralds and envoys one being the Rasau of Lomaloma
  • the following website has the document Fijian Heralds and Envoys but must be accessed through a public library computer.
  • 20th Century Fiji, edited by Stewart Firth & Daryl Tarte - 2001 - ISBN 982-01-0421-1, this book has a very detailed reference to Ratu Edward and Ratu Mara acknowledges their mothers
  • Web link reference to Ratu Edward.
  • Village of the Conquerors, Sawana: a Tongan Village in Fiji, By Alexander Philip Lessin, Phyllis June Lessin - 1970.
  • A History of Fiji, Volume 1 by R A Derrick, first published in 1946, reprinted in 2001, Chapter X discusses the Tongans and their excursions in the South Pacific and Fiji.
  • Tovata I&II, AC Reid, 1990