MEMBER of Parliament (MP) for Small Malaita Constituency, Rick Hou has successfully launched the Yam festival logo and theme in Honiara, early this week.
The launching was officiated by the MP and members of the organizing committee at the Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel, which was attended by senior government officials, friends, and people of the constituency.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr Hou described the launching as an important milestone in the committees work plan.
He said the idea for a cultural festival has been planned for over a year now.
It’s understood that in Small Malaita, yam is a very important root crop and product for the people there, which represents dignity, social status and wealth. It is being part of the identity of the people for long time coming.
Mr Hou said according to the Mala Mwaimwei Council of Chiefs, the festival has three main objectives.
“Firstly, it is to enhance the promotion of our culture and traditions – more especially with our own people itself. It is paramount to ensure our own people are reminded of their own identity and heritage.
“Secondly, this festival would provide the opportunity for our older generation to teach and pass on these practices to the younger generations.
“And thirdly, this festival is about applying culture as a source of economic and financial benefit to our people,” he said.
Mr Hou highlighted in his speech that, he can confidently say that the event will add value to the struggling tourism sector, if not in Solomon Islands, certainly in the Southern region of Malaita.
By RONALD TOITO’ONA
