The official launching date is 12-18 July 2020.

On behalf of all Kiribati people in New Zealand, KFA has worked collaboratively and persistently with the Ministry of Pacific Peoples and successfully got the Kiribati language week endorsed. It is now included as an additional official language in the Ministry of Pacific Peoples (MPP) calendar of events starting 2020. The official recognition of our language has marked not only a significant milestone in the Kiribati history in New Zealand, but urged each and every one of us to take responsibility to revert our indigenous language and culture as a treasure for future generations to come.

As the Minister for Pacific Peoples states:

“Pacific peoples must lead this work with confidence, and also use our cultural values such as collective action to also promote our languages, not just amongst Pacific communities, but nationwide and in partnership with all New Zealanders. Our languages need to be recognised and valued in our schools, community halls, our workplaces and in all areas of our lives”

KFA Executive and Board sincerely acknowledges the previous hard work of various Kiribati bodies, communities and individuals in promoting our languages and together we should all celebrate and take pride in this significant achievement.

For more information, please read Hon Aupito William Sio's announcement of 6 March 2020.

Hon Aupito William Sio - PDF 95 KB