West New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea, is home to a rich cultural tapestry with distinct linguistic and cultural groups. Most of these cultural groups have a way of life that is guided by traditions and customary obligations often focusing on the exchange of goods and “shell moni” as tokens for rituals and special occasions. Below are some of the main cultural groups that are found in the province:
1. Bakovi
- Indigenous to the area of Kimbe and surrounding villages.
- Speak the “Bola” mother language of the Bakovi Tribe
- Known for their hunting/gathering skills and nomadic history
2. Nakanai
- The Nakanai people are one of the largest groups in West New Britain. They inhabit areas around the eastern part of the province, including Hoskins, Mosa and Bialla.
- Known for their traditional songs, dances, and storytelling, they have a strong oral history tradition.
- Their language, Nakanai, belongs to the Austronesian language family and has several dialects.
3. Kove
- The Kove people live along the coastal areas of West New Britain.
- They are renowned for their seafaring skills, traditional fishing techniques, and use of outrigger canoes.
- The Kove language is another Austronesian language spoken in the region.
4. Bialla
- The Bialla area is home to various cultural groups who have integrated into the economic activities of the province, particularly the oil palm industry.
- These groups often share similar customs to neighboring Nakanai communities.
5. Arowe
- The Arowe people reside in the southern part of the province near Kandrian.
- Their culture is notable for its unique rituals, traditional crafts, and intricate carvings.
6. Kaulong
- The Kaulong people live in the inland and mountainous regions of the province.
- They are known for their distinct language, which is non-Austronesian, and their subsistence farming lifestyle.
- They maintain a connection to traditional beliefs and practices.
7. Lolo and Kaliai
- These smaller cultural groups are found in the western parts of the province, particularly in the remote interior areas.
- They have unique dialects and traditional practices.
8. Tolai Influence
- There is also a noticeable influence from neighboring East New Britain Province, particularly from the Tolai people, through intermarriage and migration.
West New Britain’s cultural groups maintain their traditions while integrating into modern activities such as the oil palm industry and provincial development projects. Festivals and ceremonies often highlight the province’s cultural diversity, including traditional dances, music, and arts.
