Tribewanted: Vorovoro

Some concern have been raised about the interests of Tui Mali’s landowning unit and his people, possible cultural affectation and other related issues arising from recent publicity created by Paradise or Bust. As expected, ancillary questions such as: “What are the Mali people going to gain from it” and “Aren’t the Mali people happy to continue on with their lives without intervention” naturally follow.

The beginning It is important to understand that serious consultations occurred within the Tui Mali’s landowning unit (mataqali) before the final consent was granted for the lease. Similarly the Mali people were informed throughout every stage of the discussions about the venture through the Tikina (district) ouncil and even at provincial level. The NLTB (native land statutory body) machinery also did their utmost best.The intention was always about the paramountcy of the interests of the Mali People. Any proposal therefore must be one that the Mali People will approve of. One they can gradually get involve with and feel part of rather than be rushed by a big bang venture with limited say and participation.

Consideration.
Mali district is the least developed area within the northern province. However, they have a rich culture and are sociable people. For Ben or any other developer with a business plan, how they make their money once the consent is given, is their own doing. That comes with risks borne by the proponent. The point of delivery, especially for a venture of this sort is when the two cultures meet. The Mali people are well informed of this and how Mali will interact through their culture (which is not on show or displayed) to palagis (Tribewanted members) who visit and want to learn to live like the Mali People. This is what is interesting. Normally, in any tourism display of culture, it is void of authenticity from all perspectives such as the costumes, display and delivery. For the people of Mali, the meke sticks may look simple or may not always be straight and the chants may be not too loud to attract a massive crowd- but this is genuine stuff. They are proud to do these things for themselves: like they always have done before.They are in total control.

During the project.
Of course Mali time with the project is compensated. But an arrangement is made such that the villages are not affected in terms of meeting traditional obligations that are to be met in relation to the church and the vanua. There is a rotational policy for work by the villages and other social clubs whose services may be needed from time to time with the cooking, building etc.

The interaction so far has brought relief. Mali people have now seen projects that are close to their heart completed through the provision of lighting, books for the library and western conservation techniques, eco-sustainable rubbish disposal, employment, and scholarship funds. Further, there are other community projects such as sea wall projects for the villages of Mali to counter the real threat of rising sea level and global warming.

The future
The partnership is reviewed on a three year term basis, subject to a decision by the Tui Mali. Whatever the decision may be, all infrastructure on the tribal village will go to Tui Mali and the people. The Mali people can then continue with their own cultural programs as they decide and see fit. Free from intervention. Right now a medium to tell their story through members of the tribe is enough.

If you have any questions regarding the project from my family side feel free to contact me and I will happily share mine and my family thoughts with you.

Vina’a va’alevu

Ulai