Rotumans urged to keep their culture and language as week-long celebrations continue

Rotumans from all walks of life gathered at the Vodafone Arena to celebrate Rotuma Day, a day when they remember their culture and identity as they gather in unison dancing and taking part in competitions from handicraft to farm produce.

Rotuma Day representative, Tomasi Kunau says in most Rotuman homes, the language is hardly spoken and he is encouraging them to speak the language to their family and friends.

He says the week long celebrations began on the island and as they approach the last two days of the celebrations, he hopes Rotumans will know more about their culture, language and identity.

Kunau says although they are scattered all over Fiji away from their relatives and friends on the main island, he is urging all Rotumans to cherish their culture and language.

He adds today the men will be having their yam competition, where they will bring their farm produce and showcase who has the biggest and heaviest yam.

Kunau says today the women will compete in the handicraft and weaving category.

Various dance groups representing their different villages from Juju to Malhaha were dancing to some traditional Rotuman music.

The Rotuman Day celebrations will conclude tomorrow at the Vodafone Arena.