The geographic area of Tuamasaga covers the central part of Upolu island, and includes the capital, Apia.

Given that the district of Aiga-i-le-Tai (Manono and Apolima) and the district of Faʻasaleleaga on Savaiʻi are two key footholds of the Aiga Sa Malietoa (Malietoa clan), Malie often consults with Manono (capital of Aiga-i-le-Tai) and Safotulafai (capital of Faʻasaleleaga) in the election of the Malietoa.

These pāpā titles are usually bestowed upon the highest matai of Tuamasaga and one of the four Tama-a-Aiga (noble families) of Samoa.

Together with the faleiva of Leulumoega and the faleono of Lufilufi, the lead orators of Malie & Afega (collectively called 'Tuisamau ma Auimatagi') comprise the group of tulafale alii (orator chiefs) who speak on behalf of Upolu on matters of state, the Tumua.

Archaeology in Samoa has uncovered earth mounds and archaeological remains at the village of Vailele in the sub-district of Vaimauga, on the central north coast to the east of Apia.