Kava Culture Flourishes: Lukuwi Nakamal, Vanuatu’s Hidden Gem
February 20, 2024 3:28 am | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Julia Charley.
Greetings to all my fellow adventurers and seekers of leisure! Exciting news fills the air as Vanuatu basks in the return of the cruise ship. The atmosphere is electric, with the vibrant smiles of the Mamas adorning the handicraft markets, painting the town with hues of joy and anticipation.
Amidst this euphoria lies a hidden gem nestled along the coastal area of Port Vila at Kawenu – the Lukuwi Nakamal. Owned by the spirited 36-year-old Mckriel Tokataake from Ifira, this oasis of relaxation has been a beacon of hope for the locals. Born and raised in Kawenu, Mr. Tokataake ‘s vision for Lukuwi Nakamal transcends mere entrepreneurship; it’s a testament to community resilience and solidarity.
The name “Lukuwi” harks back to a bygone era, a homage to the area’s pre-missionary identity before it morphed into Kawenu. Despite its historical significance, Kawenu had fallen into obscurity due to safety concerns, overshadowing its potential as a tourist hotspot. Tokataake ‘s innovative spirit saw an opportunity to reclaim the narrative, transforming Kawenu into a welcoming sanctuary through the creation of Lukuwi Nakamal.
Employment opportunities are scarce in this corner of Vanuatu, but Lukuwi Nakamal has become a lifeline for many youths, offering them not just jobs but a sense of purpose and stability. What began as a modest venture with just one hut has blossomed into a thriving kava business, defying the challenges posed by the global pandemic.
“The kava business is a different kind of business,” Tokataake muses, reflecting on the resilience of his enterprise. In a world plagued by uncertainty, the steady flow of kava serves as a beacon of stability, providing sustenance for both his family and the community at large. Despite the ebb and flow of fortune, the allure of kava remains unwavering, drawing patrons from far and wide to partake in its soothing embrace.
Tokataake ‘s quest for the perfect kava led him on a journey across Vanuatu, sampling varieties from Efate, Santo, Maewo, Pentecost, Malekula and Ambae. Through meticulous trial and error, he discovered the nuances of each strain, eventually settling on South Santo kava for its unparalleled quality and potency. His theory on geographical influences underscores the deep connection between land, culture, and kava production, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Vanuatu’s agricultural heritage.
As Lukuwi Nakamal approaches its fourth anniversary, Tokataake ‘s vision continues to evolve, with plans for expansion and innovation on the horizon. From live acoustic performances on floating pontoons to eco-friendly initiatives combating the scourge of global warming, Lukuwi Nakamal stands as a beacon of sustainable tourism in a changing world.
“Every day when it’s a good day I make 40-45 kg of kava and when it’s a bad day I make 30kg and under,” he said.
“Kawenu area is like a dead end so we don’t have late night customers, the kava finishes only around 10pm because the community is small and my customers are satisfied and go home. We open from 4:30pm to 10pm only.
“I have 6 boys maintaining the kava business making sure everything is well set at the end of the day when kava is ready and 4 boys doing other projects within the nakamal.”
So, dear readers, if you find yourself wandering the sun-drenched shores of Vanuatu, make a pit stop at Lukuwi Nakamal. Let the cool breeze caress your weary soul as you indulge in the delights of kava culture. For in this humble abode, amidst the laughter and camaraderie, lies the true essence of Vanuatu’s spirit—resilient, vibrant, and ever so welcoming. As Tokataake aptly puts it, “hemi olsem storian blo kava, bae yumi lego I stap blo wan nara taem” (It’s the kava story, and we’re just getting started).
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