Social structure of local government The social structure of local government in Samoa is comprehensive (Figure 1) and applies in a broadly similar manner to all traditional villages. In essence, it clearly highlights the respective authority and roles of various institutions and individuals in Samoa's society These are funded largely by the New Zealand and Australian aid programs. 2 For more details on the political history of Samoa see Meleisea and Meleisea 1987; Meleisea, 1987. There are a substantial number of non-traditional villages, both in rural areas settled by non-indigenous people and also in recently developed urban areas.
Located at the apex of the pyramid are those individuals (men and women) who hold matai (chiefly) titles." This group is the supreme authority in the traditional Samoan village and is normally referred to as the pulega a matai or the council of chiefs. Every aiga (family) in the village is represented in the council through its matai Some may have more matai than others, depending on the size of the family. There is no rule on the number of matai for each family. This is at the discretion of the Sa o, or the paramount chief of the family and his/her family members.