Vanuatu celebrates the reconstruction of the Malvatumauri nakamal, a chiefs’ meeting house, destroyed by fire. The ceremony in Port Vila gathered numerous chiefs, the president, and the prime minister, emphasizing the building’s cultural importance. Prime Minister Jotham Napat and Paul Robert Ravun underscored the need for inclusivity and improved dialogue with parliament. Reconstructed with local materials by community volunteers, it symbolizes unity and preservation of tradition.
Vanuatu recently held a celebratory ceremony for the reconstruction of its national council of chiefs’ meeting house, or Malvatumauri nakamal, which was destroyed by fire two years ago. This event took place in Port Vila on a public holiday known as Chiefs Day, where numerous chiefs, along with the president and prime minister, participated, reflecting the building’s cultural importance as a venue for governance discussions and the preservation of local traditions.
The inception of the nakamal dates back to Vanuatu’s independence in 1980, when chiefs decided to erect a symbol of unity for the nation’s diverse peoples and customs. Officially opened in 1990, the nakamal serves as a significant site for conflict resolution and community dialogue. Prime Minister Jotham Napat indicated that the meeting house is inclusive, stating, “Nakamal does not separate the people, nakamal has a place for everyone.”
During the event, Paul Robert Ravun, the President of the Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs, highlighted the need for improved dialogue between customary leaders and parliament, noting, “For 44 years we have been silent, but now, in this moment, I believe it is the right time to speak.” He emphasized the importance of obtaining the council’s agreement before passing any legislative bills.
The reconstruction project lasted two years and utilized locally sourced materials, such as natangura palm and hardwood. This initiative was made possible through the efforts of volunteers, including chiefs and community members, and the structure remarkably endured a 7.3 magnitude earthquake last December. Moreover, Vanuatu’s government, alongside international donors from France, Australia, New Zealand, and China, financed the reconstruction, which cost approximately 20 million vatu (US$160,000).
The reconstruction of the Malvatumauri nakamal in Vanuatu signifies a crucial cultural revival and embodies the traditional tenets of unity and inclusiveness. With strong support from international donors and community engagement, the nakamal now stands as a renewed space for conflict resolution, governance discussions, and the cherishing of Vanuatu’s oral traditions. The calls for enhanced consultations between customary leaders and parliament reflect a significant stride toward integrating traditional perspectives within modern governance.
Original Source: www.rnz.co.nz
