Port Vila, March 5, 2024 - The vibrant and culturally rich celebration of National Chiefs Day took center stage in Port Vila as communities gathered at Saralana Park to honor and recognized the esteemed role of chiefs in Vanuatu.

Organized by the Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs, this year’s festivities carried the theme “Uniting to Protect and Promote Vanuatu’s Custom Resilient Spirit”.

A remarkable aspect of this year’s celebration was the profound display of tradition, with participants representing the six provinces of Vanuatu residing in Port Vila adorned in traditional custom dress. This symbolized the enduring significance of Chiefs Day, which was first observed 48 years ago in 1976 by the New Hebrides Condominium government.

The occasion was made even more special by the presence of paramount chiefs from the Smol Nambas tribe in southeast Malekula, who performed the revered custom ceremony known as Namangi. Among the participants was the president of the Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs, who part took in the ceremony to receive a high-ranking chiefly name.

The Namangi ceremony holds a significant historical importance, having been performed only three times since Vanuatu gained independence in 1980, previously, it was conducted in the early 1980s with the first Prime Minister, Fr Walet Lini Meleun, followed by a ceremony during the tenure of the Prime Minister Sato Kilman Liftunvanu in the mid-2000s, and most recently, with president and chief Merhimba Dangdang Paul Robert Ravun of Malvatumauri.

In his address on the occasion, President Merhimba Dangdang Paul Robert Ravun emphasized the pivotal role of chiefs in preserving customs and caring for the people. He urged chiefs across Vanuatu to unite in their efforts to uphold traditions and continue advocate for increased support from the government.

“Malvatumairi needs their wisdom to drive Custom Governance and make it parallel with Formal Governance,” stated President Ravun. He appealed to the government to enhance the annual budget allocated to Malvatumaur, citing the evolving challenges faced by the communities in contemporary times.

Acknowledging the deep-rooted connection between chiefs and the essence of Vanuatu’s way of life, President Merhimba Dangdang expressed confidence that the government would consider their request. “Every leader of chiefs and customs, which form the bedrock of our society” he remarked.

The celebration of National Chiefs Day in Port Vila served as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy and vital role played by the chiefs in preserving Vanuatu’s rich cultural heritage and promoting unity across communities.