The traditional residence of the Paramount Chief of Sabeto is undergoing a major renovation for the first time in more than two decades, with members of the Vanua coming together to restore the chiefly home using customary knowledge and traditional practices.
In a social media statement, the Vanua o Betoraurau confirmed that renovation works on Erenavula, the traditional residence of the Momo Levu na Tui Sabeto, had officially begun this week.
The restoration marks the first major refurbishment of the chiefly residence in over 20 years.
According to the statement, men and women from the Yavusa e Vitu have been assigned different responsibilities to ensure the renovation is carried out “with dignity, order, and respect” under the guidance of traditional leaders.
The work is being led by traditional elders and craftsmen from Namara in the Vanua o Waya Sewa, continuing a customary responsibility entrusted to them during the leadership of the late Na Momo Levu, Ratu Kaliova Mataitoga.
The statement said his vision and leadership continued to be remembered with deep respect by the Vanua.
As part of preparations, young men from the chiefly village spent the past two weeks travelling into the highlands of Nausori to gather gasau and sina reeds used for roofing and wall panelling.
The harvesting was carried out with the blessing of the Momo na Taukei Votuvotu and Taukei Korovau of Tubenasolo.
The young men were hosted by villages throughout the highlands and remained away from their families for more than a week while carrying out their duties in service to the Vanua and the Momo Levu.
Women of the Yavusa e Vitu also played a key role by supporting those working in the highlands and assisting with preparations within the chiefly village.
The restoration preparations began during the traditional Fijian calendar season known as Vula i Gasau, associated with the harvesting of reeds and the abundance of the Vanua’s totem, the kulu or breadfruit.
The renovation is expected to continue over the next month before concluding with a day of thanksgiving, unity and celebration for the people of the Vanua.
