Litiana Maopa facts for kids
Adi Litiana Maopa (1864-1933) was a very important leader in Fiji. She belonged to two of Fiji's most powerful chiefly families. These were the families of the Tui Nayau, who was the main chief of the Lau Islands, and the Vunivalu of Bau, who was the main chief of the Kubuna Confederacy.
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Who Was Adi Litiana Maopa?
Adi Litiana Maopa was born in 1864 and passed away in 1933. She was a respected member of Fiji's traditional leadership. Her family connections made her a key figure in the history of the Fijian islands.
Her Important Family
Adi Maopa came from a very important background. Her father, Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba II, was meant to become the Tui Nayau. This is a very high title, meaning the paramount (most important) chief of the Lau Islands. Sadly, her father died before he could take on this role. Because of this, Adi Maopa was part of the ruling Vuanirewa dynasty. This was a noble family known as Matailakeba.
Her Parents and Grandparents
Adi Maopa's mother was Adi Asenaca Kakua. Her mother was also from a very powerful family. Adi Asenaca Kakua was the daughter of Ratu Seru Epenisa Cakobau. Ratu Cakobau was known as the Tui Viti, which means the King of Fiji, and also the Vunivalu of Bau, the main chief of the Kubuna region. Adi Asenaca Kakua's mother, and Adi Maopa's grandmother, was Adi Litia Samanunu. These family ties made Adi Maopa connected to some of the most influential leaders in Fijian history.
Marriage and Children
In November 1886, Adi Litiana Maopa married Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi I. Together, they had six children. Their children included Adi Vuikaba, Ratu Tiale Vuiyasawa, Adi Salote Mokoiwaqa, and Adi Kacaraini Loaloakubou.
A Famous Son: Ratu Sir Josefa Sukuna
One of Adi Maopa's most famous children was Ratu Sir Josefa Vanaaliali Lalabalavu Sukuna. He became one of Fiji's greatest leaders and statesmen in the 20th century. A statesman is a wise and respected leader who works for the good of their country. Her youngest child was Dr. Ratu Jione Atonio Rabici Doviverata. He was the father of Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi, who later became a Vice-President of Fiji and the Roko Tui Bau, another important chiefly title.
