New Caledonia: Lifue Island – Singsing
Loyalty Islands are predominately populated by the indigenous Kanak people (unlike the New Caledonia “mainland,” which is mostly descendants of Europeans). Kanaka are Melanesians and their history on the island dates back to Lapita culture, around 1000 BC. There are about 28 different Kanak tribes with separate language and chiefdoms. Kanaks have a movement pushing for a complete sovereignty of New Caledonia, although the most recent referendum failed by a very thin margin. It’s a rich culture that has received more popularization and preservation since 1990s. A traditional cultural performance e was full of dancing and singing and warrior fight re-enactments.
