By RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The recent Shell Money Festival at Busu Community in Aoke/Langalanga Constituency, Malaita Province, has attracted many tourists from overseas.
The two-day event, which took place from August 16-17, 2025 was a milestone and a platform for the people of Langalanga Lagoon to showcase their different traditional customs and attires.
According to the constituency’s project officer, Bernard Dakero, the event has created a connection between the local tourism operators and the tourists.
He expressed that the main highlights at the festival were shell money-making demonstrations, bride gift ceremonies, and artificial island building.
“The main highlights of the two-day event are the shell money-making demonstrations, as we were the first people to start making shell money in the country.
“We also have a bride gift ceremony and we showed how we built artificial islands in our lagoon,” he said.
Dakero mentioned that cultural entertainment was also part of the event where the Langalanga people performed their diverse traditional dances and songs.
He explained that the event has brought money to the rural communities through the sale of their sea products, artifacts, seafood, and accommodation.
“My people have earned income from this event. Some have sold their artifacts, seafood, and tourists have occupied our tourist hubs in the lagoon,” he said.
For feedback, contact:[email protected]
