National Kenu and Kundu Festival Now a Biennial Event

This serves to notify all sponsors, stakeholders, and the general public that the 2020 National Kenu and Kundu Festival (NKKF) is cancelled to become a biennial event (held every two years) starting in 2021. This is consistent with a 2019 PEC Decision placing the NKKF under the auspices of the Milne Bay Tourism Bureau. 

Since 2014, the NKKF has become difficult to manage. The 2017-2019 Committee under Chairman Mr. Harold Tabua started in February 2017 and boosted sponsorship by over 250% from 2017 to 2019. However, difficulties in implementing an Event Management System (EMS) with awareness and training has seen new challenges regarding participants and stakeholders. 

This deferral is also due to the current COVID-19 pandemic and resulting State of Emergency, which has also led to a stand-still of the tourism industry amidst measures to prevent the local spread of the global pandemic. 

This will enable the rebranding, restructuring, and establishment of an EMS for the NKKF, with a focus on restoring the cultural aspects to enhance quality and make the event more enjoyable and beneficial for all going forward. 

On 17 April 2020, the MBTB Board appointed Mr. Jehoram Mataio as the new NKKF Chairman for 2020-2021. A new committee will maintain communications, online presence, complete payouts and reporting, and prepare for the 2021 NKKF event under a new model with awareness and training for all stakeholders. 

The Huhu War Canoe Festival (HWCF) will now be held on 6-7 November 2020 at Maiwara Village near Alotau. 

The MBTB Board and Management apologize to all stakeholders for any inconvenience caused. 

For updates to Milne Bay’s 2020 provincial events subscribe to the Milne Bay Tourism Bureau Facebook page or call +675 641-1503