Faith, Community, and Fono

Across Samoa, the village fono (council) remains a cornerstone of local governance and cultural life. These assemblies uphold the values of fa‘a Samoa, guiding community wellbeing through collective decision-making and traditional leadership.

What the fono is

The fono is made up of matai (title holders) who represent their aiga (extended families). Councils usually meet in the fale tele (meeting house) and, when hosting visitors, may also convene in the faletalimalo (guest house). Decisions are typically reached by consensus among the matai and are expected to reflect both custom and national law.

Bylaws and process

The Village Fono Act 1990 and the Village Fono Amendment Act 2017 give councils the power to create village bylaws (i‘ugafono or faiga fa‘avae). These can cover hygiene, curfews, land use for village development, and the maintenance of peace and order. Since 2017, bylaws can be formally registered with the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development.

Councils are required to follow set procedures before imposing penalties such as ostracism or banishment. Decisions must comply with Samoa’s Constitution and may be challenged in the courts. The Land and Titles Court handles customary matters, while the Supreme Court can review issues of constitutional rights. Jurisdiction over people living on government, freehold, or leasehold land is limited.

In recent years, debate has grown over the extent of the fono’s authority. Reviews by the Samoa Law Reform Commission and international partners have pointed to tensions between protecting individual rights and respecting village autonomy. Court challenges have also tested the legality of penalties such as banishment, showing how the fono continues to adapt within Samoa’s constitutional framework.

Church and village life

Church leaders are deeply embedded in village society and often collaborate with councils on community events and social initiatives. However, formal decision-making generally rests with the matai, and the role of ministers varies from one village to another.

Women’s committees and community work

Village women’s committees (Komiti Tumama) are vital to public health and development. They lead or support initiatives in health promotion, education, child welfare, water supply, sanitation, and fundraising. Their leadership is recognised in national policy and visible in everyday village projects.

Young people and the future

Youth groups also contribute to village life through sport, cultural activities, service projects, and leadership programmes. Many villages encourage young people to learn protocols and assist elders, helping prepare the next generation of leaders.

Why it matters

From mediating family and land disputes to coordinating infrastructure repairs and community fundraising, the fono remains a practical forum that preserves harmony, supports families, and sustains fa‘a Samoa while operating within the framework of national law.

Glossary

• fono: village council

• matai: titleholder representing an ‘aiga

• aiga: extended family

• fale tele: large meeting house for chiefs

• faletalimalo: guest house for hosting visitors

• i‘ugafono: council resolution or bylaw

• Komiti Tumama: village women’s committee focused on health and community work

• fa‘a Samoa: the Samoan way of life, customs, and values

References

• Village Fono Act 1990

• Village Fono Amendment Act 2017

• Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development: guidance on village governance

• Samoa Law Reform Commission, Review of the Village Fono Act (2016)

• Research on Komiti Tumama and community health initiatives

• Cultural references on fale tele and faletalimalo