Vanuatu chiefs encourage Ni-Vans to pursue arranged marriage

Chief John Maserei surprised seeing Princess Mary (Photo: Len Garae)

Vanuatu chiefs are pushing to re-introduce traditional arranged weddings. 

The Malvatumouri Council of Chiefs believes it will strengthen marriages and prevent the breakdown of relationships affecting seasonal workers.

“I think we have a big foreign influence of money which causes these problems, said head of the Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs, Chief Paul Ravun. “We strengthen marriage because they have to abide by the laws of customs and the village” he said.