Team Fiji men’s rugby sevens halfback Seremaia Tuwai has been given a chiefly title and three acres of land by his chief following a full i-Taukei traditional welcoming ceremony at Buca Village in Cakaudrove yesterday.

The Vanua o Kama dubbed him as Ratu Seremaia Tuwai Otomailomanioro at the height of their celebration.

Turaga na Tui Kama Ratu Seru Taqali said Tuwai’s achievement was well-deserving of the “Ratu” title accorded only to chiefs. Tuwai scored a try in Fiji’s 43-7 win over Great Britain as they romped away to win the country’s first ever Olympic Games gold medal.

Ratu Seru said this was a proud moment for not only the people of Buca but for the whole of the Cakaudrove province.

Ratu Seru said they were fortunate that Tuwai while representing his country and his village he has returned home a conqueror.

“Just a like a warrior returning victorious from war in the olden days, this welcome and their token of appreciation was certainly called for,” he said

Ratu Seru added they wanted to accord Tuwai the rites that were bestowed on former head coach Ben Ryan by the people of Serua.

Ratu Seru said Tuwai was their hero who deserved no less as they also gave him three acres of land as token of their appreciation.

Tuwai who also carried on a decorated podium said he was overwhelmed and humbled to be welcomed in a grand way.

More than 500 relatives, friends and well-wishers converged at Buca to mark the occasion.

Tuwai is originally from Buca with maternal links to Nailaga village in Ba.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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