BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Lavukal House of Chiefs Day 2024 was celebrated successfully at Louna in the Russell Islands over the weekend, with the theme “Empowering and Enhancing Our Lavukal People.”
Held annually on October 19th, the event aims to bring together the four tribes of the Russell Islands along with their paramount, clan, and community chiefs.
This year’s celebration featured the enthronement of newly appointed chiefs and the presentation of progress reports from various Lavukal entities.
Event Chair Clement Fagi welcomed attendees, saying, “On behalf of my community at Louna, I extend a warm welcome as we gather to witness and celebrate the enthronement of the Lavukal chief.”
He expressed gratitude to Oliver Salopuka, MP for Savo/Russell, for his generous support.
“Today, you have gifted us a special collection of musical instruments and various consumer goods for the event. Your support has made this celebration truly joyous. Thank you to everyone involved,” Fagi concluded.
The event received support from the Honiara Lavukal team, led by Oliver Salopuka, who played a key role in organizing the event at Louna, Russell Islands. The Lavukal community is comprised of the Solovui, Keruval, Sevev, and Kaiseleng tribes.
The celebration kicked off with a lively welcome ceremony on Friday, October 18th, at 4 PM, and continued with the main program on Saturday, October 19th, at Louna.
Attendees included the Paramount Chiefs of the Russell Islands, representatives from all tribes within the House of Chiefs, the Member of Parliament for the Lavukal ward, directors from Levers Solomon’s Limited (LSL) and Russell Islands Plantation Limited (RIPEL), lawyer Ms. Susan, directors of the Lavukal Investment Company, and members of surrounding communities.
