Rotuma Day celebration

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Pepjei Villagers perform a traditional dance during their celebration yesterday. Picture: LITIA RITOVA

Rotumans of all age groups numbering more than 1000 convened at the Vodafone Arena in Suva yesterday to celebrate Rotuma Day.

Fiji Rotuma Association (FRA) chairman Victor Fatiaki said preserving the Rotuman language and traditions was vital in keeping the culture alive.

“We are a minority race with a population of only 20,000 people,” Mr Fatiaki said.

“We would like to continue our culture and train our young people so they will learn the traditions.

“A good example is the language, most of the Rotumans don’t speak the native language.”

He said the association had signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Council of Rotuma and also launched its official website yesterday.

“Even though we are away from our home for a long time, but our hearts, mind and soul is in Rotuma.

“So that is why Rotuma Day celebration. We are very thankful to everyone that attended.”