The residents of Vatulele Village on Koro Island have a wealth of stories to share about the devastation wrought by Cyclone Winston in February 2016. However, amid these narratives, the elders and younger inhabitants also recount the old legends surrounding the village’s traditional stone enclosures known as moka, which are intimately tied to their deity, Leka.
Situated in a picturesque hilly landscape on Koro’s northern tip, Vatulele is recognized for its vibrant fruit cultivation and cheerful community. The series of moka structures, which date back generations, were remarkably untouched by Winston’s destruction and serve as a historical reminder of the village’s traditional i-Taukei social structure.
The moka, a circular stone fish trap that captures fish during low tide, showcases the ingenuity of the community. “Erecting the moka involved the village’s four mataqali of Yadale, Sebu, Namoli, and Namolisawana,” shared 76-year-old Taina Ditutu, who vividly recalls participating in the traditional fish drives. She described how the building process felt like a celebration filled with laughter and festivity.
Close to the moka, supernatural beliefs flourish, as are shown in the traditional act of tuva moka. This practice, involving construction and fish trapping, has elements that align closely with the local spiritual beliefs, reflecting the strong connection between the community, their ancestral traditions, and nature.
The village’s interactions with spirits continue to echo partly in the relationships villagers maintain with various marine life, evident in places like Cakaudrove, where sharks are viewed with reverence. Such beliefs about the spiritual dimensions of the environment link to stories of shark encounters and events occurring around traditional fishing practices.
Cultural traditions, such as the offerings made to Leka to ensure bountiful catches, highlight the i-Taukei people’s sustainable fishing methods and their deep-rooted connection to the ocean. Villagers assert that satisfying Leka with offerings guarantees rich fishing yields, bringing joy and sustenance to the community.
Today’s challenges, including recovery from TC Winston, intertwine with these customs, revealing a collective resilience and dedication to preserving their cultural identity. As the village navigates through environmental adversities, the enduring legacy of their traditions provides not only a sense of roots but also hope for continued community cooperation and harmony in the natural world.
The significance of Vatulele’s moka and the spiritual narratives reflects a broader context of sustainable practices among Fijian communities, showcasing the importance of engaging local wisdom in future fisheries development and environmental management strategies. By nurturing these traditions, there is a pathway toward strengthening environmental stewardship and cultural identity in an increasingly modernized society.
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