The Nakamal is the "place of peace". Here the chief and elders meet. From the nakamal decisions of the council emanate. Men meet here to drink kava ceremonially and socially, to negotiate disputes, to strengthen relationships within the community. This nakamal is located at the eastern end of Tikilasoa above the coastal footpath that leads to the church and the village of Unakapu.
Sadly there has been recent confict over land here at Tikilasoa, but the conversations in the nakamal have contributed to reconciliation and peace between Tikilasoa and neighbouring village, Unakapu.
I was just there for Independence Day (30th July).
Taloa (Tikilasoa) had their own celebrations while everyone from Unakapu went to celebrate with the other villages on the west of the island. There is still a rift between them but it is more than just over land. As I understand a large amount of money from the Peace Corp ended up going missing in one of the villages. It's very complicated.
Dear Maui J,
Your understanding of and experience with the people of Nguna is appreciated. If you were willing to tell me more detail, I would appreciate it. If there were sensitivites I would not leave your message up on Panoramio, or I could let you know my direct email address. I have a role in training peacebuilders for pacific countries including Vanuatu, and close associations with PCV and with special friends on Ngna and elsewhere.
Comments
Ian Stehbens, on May 14, 2007, said:
The Nakamal is the "place of peace". Here the chief and elders meet. From the nakamal decisions of the council emanate. Men meet here to drink kava ceremonially and socially, to negotiate disputes, to strengthen relationships within the community. This nakamal is located at the eastern end of Tikilasoa above the coastal footpath that leads to the church and the village of Unakapu.
Ian Stehbens, on May 19, 2007, said:
Sadly there has been recent confict over land here at Tikilasoa, but the conversations in the nakamal have contributed to reconciliation and peace between Tikilasoa and neighbouring village, Unakapu.
©IR Stehbens, on May 20, 2007, said:
The land dispute between Tikilasoa and Unakapu has not yet been resolved, though there are conversations working toward reconciliation.
Maui Jorgenson, on August 9, 2007, said:
I was just there for Independence Day (30th July). Taloa (Tikilasoa) had their own celebrations while everyone from Unakapu went to celebrate with the other villages on the west of the island. There is still a rift between them but it is more than just over land. As I understand a large amount of money from the Peace Corp ended up going missing in one of the villages. It's very complicated.
Ian Stehbens, on August 18, 2007, said:
Dear Maui J, Your understanding of and experience with the people of Nguna is appreciated. If you were willing to tell me more detail, I would appreciate it. If there were sensitivites I would not leave your message up on Panoramio, or I could let you know my direct email address. I have a role in training peacebuilders for pacific countries including Vanuatu, and close associations with PCV and with special friends on Ngna and elsewhere.
Maui Jorgenson, on August 28, 2007, said:
Unfortunately, what I have mentioned above is all I know. You may need to contact the PC in Vanuatu to find out more details.