Lokia youth lead effort to keep traditional ceremonies alive

As concerns grow over the erosion of traditional customs, Lokia Village in Rewa is ensuring its cultural heritage endures by training every young man to learn and lead traditional ceremonies.

The commitment was evident during the opening of the Rewa Provincial Council meeting, where young men from the village, all in their 20s, confidently conducted the veiqaravi vakavanua.

Their role drew praise from guests and highlighted the village's efforts to preserve iTaukei traditions at a time when many communities fear younger generations are becoming disconnected from their cultural responsibilities.

Village headman Asesela Sadole said passing on traditional knowledge had long been part of village life.

"This has been the practice in our village for many years because we want to preserve our culture and traditional customs," he said.

"When we are gone, this generation of young men will continue these practices and teach those who come after them. We allow our young men to conduct traditional ceremonies because the future rests in their hands. Whether our customs continue will eventually depend on them."

Mr Sadole said Lokia had one of the largest youth populations in Rewa Province, making it essential to instil cultural knowledge from an early age.

"The system is such that as they grow up, they know they must learn and take part in traditional ceremonies. The main reason is to preserve our culture and traditions by making them part of everyday life.

"Whenever the vanua calls, they are ready to step up and fulfil their responsibilities."

After the traditional ceremony, the young men also prepared and served the traditional feast for Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Mosese Bulitavu.