Tuvalu is in the spotlight this week as communities across New Zealand celebrate Vaiaso o te Gana Tuvalu – Tuvalu Language Week.

This year’s theme for Vaiaso o te Gana Tuvalu – Tuvalu Language Week is Fakatumau kae fakaakoi tau ‘gana ke mautu a iloga o ‘ta tuā.

Fakatumau kae fakaakoi tau ‘gana ke mautu a iloga o ‘ta tuā means 'preserve and embrace your language to safeguard our heritage identities'.

The 2023 theme connected to the overall Pacific Language Weeks theme of ‘sustainability’ and the launch of the UNESCO Decade of Indigenous languages. The theme reflected the importance of nurturing the Tuvaluan language in a sustainable manner.

Minister for Pacific Peoples Barbara Edmonds many Pacific nations are facing a growing impact from climate change.

“Tuvalu is no stranger to this stark reality with rising sea levels and more intense cyclone activities,” says Edmonds.

“Sustaining and safeguarding Te Gana Tuvalu has become more vital than ever for communities in the Tuvalu homeland and New Zealand.”

Edmonds adds the Government has a proven record of supporting Pacific communities and ensuring more of our languages are spoken, heard and celebrated.  

For this year’s Tuvalu Language Week, Tagata Tuvalu Otautahi Incorporated and wider community have selected the theme of Fakatumau kae fakaakoi tau ‘gana ke mautu a iloga o ‘ta tuā translating to Preserve and embrace your language to safeguard our heritage identities. 

Tuvalu consists of nine inhabited islands with a population of approximately 11,000 people.

It is also the fourth-smallest nation in the world. 

In New Zealand, there are over 4,600 people who identify as Tuvaluan and 48 per cent are Te Gana Tuvalu speakers.

Fifty-four per cent of our total population are New Zealand-born and only 25 per cent of those under the age of 15 can speak the language. 

“Preserving the Tuvalu language is the community’s call to maintain, embrace and cherish its value for generations,” says the Minister.  

“Tuvalu community groups are working together to showcase their language across a variety of virtual and in-person activities this week including traditional dancing, church services, flag raising ceremonies, craft making, cooking sessions, and children’s activities. 

“I’m encouraging everyone to get involved to celebrate Vaiaso o te Gana Tuvalu.

“Not only will you help sustain a vibrant language, but support our Pacific community to thrive.”

Tuvalu Language Week runs until October 7.  Visit the MPP website for further information and resources.