Fa'asaleleaga

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Fa'asaleleaga is a district of Samoa. It is on the eastern side of Savai'i, and has a population (2001 Census) of 12,949. The capital is Safotulafai.

It is geographically located at latitude (-13.67 degrees) 13° 40' 11" south of the equator and longitude (-172.12 degrees) 172° 7' 12" west of the prime meridian on the world map.

The capital is Safotulafai, where district chiefs and orators meet at its Fuifatu malae.

Nationally, Faasaleleaga is a major Malietoa district. Therefore, it has close political links with Tuamasaga. Safotulafai is always consulted by Malie (Tuamasaga) in conjunction with Manono (Aiga-i-le-Tai) in the election of Malietoa title-holders. Safotulafai also has close traditional links with Saleaula, the capital of the district of Gaga’emauga.

Another important village in this district is Sapapalii, where John Williams, the first missionary to bring Christianity to Samoa landed. Sapapalii became the second Malietoa base in the district in 1750 when Malietoa Ti’a moved here. It was here in 1830 Malietoa Vaiinupo received John Williams.

In 20th century, another village of this district, Salelologa - became important as a commercial centre and as the major seaport for Savaii.