APAO

Riamkau Sau 2nd passed away in 1878, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Faguta. His only daughter with his wife, Tifao Huagfaiaki, was named Apao Mara’ana. Apao was later given in marriage to a young chief from the district of Oinafa.

On 24 August 1883, Apao married Tavo Rupeni, a chief from Oinafa who was also the grandson of the late Kausiräf Sau. Oinafa was renowned for its strength in warfare and its strategic alliances with other chiefly houses in the districts of Noatau and Itu’tiu. It also held a distinction as one of the first districts to receive both Wesleyan (Methodist) and Catholic missions. Over time, Oinafa became predominantly Wesleyan, while Faguta remained largely Catholic.

The union of Apao and Tavo symbolized more than a marriage between two individuals; it represented a blood alliance between the chiefly houses of Faguta and Oinafa. It was both a political and spiritual bridge between two faiths, and their children became living evidence of the Rotuman aspiration for unity and the preservation of peace.

Just two years prior to their union, on 13 May 1881, Rotuma was ceded to Great Britain. The island’s chiefs gathered at Motusa to sign the Deed of Cession. Among the signatories was Tavo Rupeni, who signed on behalf of Niomfag Isireli, the district chief of Oinafa, who was unable to attend due to old age.

Tavo and Apao are buried side by side in Oinafa Cemetery. Their son, Fiu, was later buried alongside Tavo, while their granddaughter, Motofaga, was laid to rest with Apao—continuing the family’s presence and legacy in the district.

Apao and Tavo had five children;
1. Sauhua’elag
2. Kafoa
3. Terani
4. Atalifo
5. Fiu