Vuda youth learn tradition during funeral rites

In Viseisei ni Vuda village, the traditional funeral rites for the late Tui Vuda are serving a dual purpose: honoring the chief and preparing the next generation for crucial cultural responsibilities. The Tububere clan is actively involving young people in these ceremonies to ensure the knowledge and duties of the vanua are passed down effectively.

Iliesa Cebaivalu Namuira, the Taukei Sawaieke, emphasized that this involvement is critical. Young people traveled from various parts of Fiji and even from overseas to participate in caring for and safeguarding the body of the late Tui Vuda. Namuira highlighted that this firsthand experience is significant, allowing them to learn a responsibility that has been passed through generations.

"The young people who took part will now have their own story to share with their children and grandchildren," Namuira said. "We elders also step aside to allow the younger generation to take on these responsibilities. This is not about removing the role of traditional leaders, but about creating space for young people to learn by doing."

The presence of elders provides essential guidance, while the active participation of the youth builds their confidence and trust in their ability to meet their traditional obligations. For the clans of Viseisei, Vuda, this farewell has become a vital lesson, ensuring that the next generation will be ready to carry forward the responsibilities entrusted to them.

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The young people who took part will now have their own story to share with their children and grandchildren. We elders also step aside to allow the younger generation to take on these responsibilities. This is not about removing the role of traditional leaders, but about creating space for young people to learn by doing.