Colo Oka! (Bula vinaka in the Serua dialect) “Keitou vutuniyau e na loloma ka sega na siliva kei na koula” (Love is the richest treasure we possess, worth more than silver or gold).
That is the phrase we often use to describe who we are, as people of Nabukelevu.
Nestled in the heart of Serua, Nabukelevu is a hidden gem that many in Fiji may not be familiar with. Despite its remote location, the village has a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community.
When a Nabukelevu young person introduces him or her, many people often mistake Nabukelevu, Serua with Kadavu or the vanua o Nabukebuke in the province of Namosi.
However, little do they know that Nabukelevu is located about 30 kilometres away from the nearest highway, along the Navosa and Namosi highland border. Despite its remote location, Nabukelevu Village has a lot to offer.
It is surrounded by lush green forests, rolling hills, and pristine rivers that make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can go hiking, fishing, or simply take in the natural beauty of the area.
The village is also home to a vibrant community proud of its cultural heritage. The people of Nabukelevu are known for their hospitality and warmth, and visitors are always welcomed with open arms.
One of the most unique aspects of Nabukelevu Village is its geographical location. Situated in the interior of Serua, the village is far away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
This isolation has helped to preserve the traditional way of life of its villagers, and visitors can experience a glimpse of what village life may have been like some generations ago, when they pay a visit.
Despite its many attractions, Nabukelevu Village is not without its share of challenges. The remote location of the village means that access to basic services such as healthcare and markets can be difficult.
The people of Nabukelevu have had to rely on their own ingenuity and resourcefulness to overcome these challenges, and they have done so with great success. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Nabukelevu Village as a tourist destination.
This has brought economic opportunities to the village, and the people of Nabukelevu have embraced these opportunities with open arms.
However, they are also mindful of the need to preserve their cultural heritage and natural environment and are working hard to ensure that these are not compromised in the pursuit of economic development.
If you’re looking for a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, then Nabukelevu village is your perfect getaway destination. Despite the challenges of climate change and modernization, the youth in Nabukelevu have embraced farming as a way of life.
They see it as not just a source of income but also a way of preserving their traditional practices.
The main crops are yaqona and root crops, which are essential in their daily lives. Prawn catching is also crucial as it provides a means of livelihood and symbolises the ties with their ancestors.
These young farmers are a beacon of hope for sustainable agriculture and maintaining cultural heritage in Fiji One of the things that makes Nabukelevu a unique place is its proximity to the activities provided by Rivers Fiji in the Upper Navua Conservation Area.
This area consists of a 15-kilometer unspoiled river system that has remained untouched by civilisation, offering a breathtaking adventure for nature enthusiasts.
Spanning from the Nabukelevu River through to the Navua Gorge, visitors are treated to endless waterfalls, endangered species, and endemic plants like Sago Palms surviving along the riverbanks.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Upper Navua Conservation Area is the diversity of wildlife present. With the significant conservation efforts in place, you’ll have the chance to see some of the most endangered species of birds, fish, and insects in the world.
Some of the endangered plants in Fiji, such as the sago palm also thrive in the Upper Navua Conservation Area.
Tourists can experience the Upper Navua Conservation Area in many ways, with guided tours and water activities such as kayaking and white-water rafting. The area has designated hiking trails for those in search of an adventure on foot.
For those who love adventure, pig hunting is a popular pastime among the people of Nabukelevu. It’s not just a sport but also an essential cultural practice that demonstrates their respect for nature and their traditional way of life.
Many visitors enjoy joining locals on pig-hunting expeditions during their stay, learning the ropes from experienced hunters. But that’s not all, Nabukelevu is also known for its vast native forest and logging industry, which contributes significantly to the Fiji economy.
The forest is home to many rare species of flora and fauna, ensuring that the environment remains in balance and is sustainable for future generations. Lastly, the island’s rich mineral resources, particularly its mining activities, provide vital jobs and income for its people, who live a simple yet comfortable life.
Moreover, the mining industry has implemented sustainable practices to minimize its environmental impact, ensuring that the environment remains beautiful and untouched for years to come.
Nabukelevu Village is a hidden gem in the heart of Serua that is well worth a visit. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant community, it offers a truly unique experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
While there may be challenges associated with its remote location, the people of Nabukelevu have shown that they are resilient and resourceful and are working hard to create a better future for themselves and their community.
• AVENAI SERUTABUA is a human rights activist and mental health advocate from Nabukelevu in Serua. The views expressed in this article are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper
