The Tinakula Festival 2025 was successfully held over the weekend at the SINU Village in East Honiara, marking two vibrant days filled with music, storytelling, and cultural exchange.
The event was celebrated on Friday and Saturday under the theme “Roots to Horizon – Celebrating Temotu’s Legacy.” It festival brought together leaders, elders, and youth to honor a shared history and work toward a resilient future.
Tinakula Festival Chairman Noel Nelu opened the celebration on Friday with powerful words about protecting identity and inspiring youth.
“We are not just organizing a festival; we are also preserving the truth, identity, and heartbeat of our people,” he declared.
Dennis Marita, the Director of Culture and Tourism, applauded the festival in his keynote address as a landmark achievement for Temotu Province.
He emphasized its transformative power, stating, “Culture is the DNA of our national identity. It shapes our development, drives innovation, and defines the direction we take as a nation.”
He also reaffirmed the government’s support for establishing a provincial museum in Temotu to preserve oral histories, local languages, and island traditions.
“Investing in our cultural heritage is investing in social resilience—our stories empower us to navigate the future,” he added.
Jeremy Bartlett, Managing Director of Hatanga Group Limited and By Group Construction Ltd, hailed the festival as a bridge between tradition and progress.
As a representative of the Platinum sponsors, he expressed admiration for Temotu’s resilience and cultural leadership.
“Temotu is the gatekeeper of the east. From these roots, we grow toward new horizons, and we are proud to help build the path forward,” Bartlett said.
He spoke about infrastructure projects that address domestic violence, improve connectivity, and create economic opportunities, underscoring the sponsors’ commitment to giving back to the communities they serve.
With support from Tourism Solomon as the Gold Sponsors, the festival showcases traditional dances, oral storytelling from community elders, cuisine, and crafts.
The Tinakula Festival is not just a moment of celebration; it is a movement of remembrance, revival, and responsibility.
As Director Marita reminded us, “Let our culture be the compass that guides our people, not just to survive, but to thrive.”
By ANDRIANAH DELASALET KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara
