The Kiribati archipelago, located in the continent of Oceania. Stay with Saed News to explore the culture of these people.
Kiribati, officially the Republic of Kiribati (in Kiribati language: Ribaberiki Kiribati), is an island country in the Pacific Ocean. The name of this country is mostly pronounced as Kiribas. In the Kiribati language, "ti" is pronounced as "s," and for this reason, the correct and common pronunciation of the country's name is Kiribas, and its language is Kiribati. The capital of Kiribati is South Tarawa, and it declared independence from Britain on July 12, 1979. Its area is 811 square kilometers, ranking 186th in size. Its population is estimated at about 119,000 people. The country consists of 33 coral atolls, 21 of which are inhabited. The word Kiribati is the native pronunciation of the word "Gilberts" (in English: Gilberts). The name "Gilberts" comes from Thomas Gilbert, who, along with John Marshall, were among the first Europeans to reach the Gilbert Islands in 1788.
Various Christian denominations together form the largest religious group in the country. About 96% of the population are Christian. 56% of the population are Roman Catholic, primarily residing on the northern islands. The Protestant Christian population of Kiribati mostly dominates the southern islands. 34% of the population belong to the Kiribati Uniting Church. Only 0.05% of the population have no religious affiliation. The Bahá'í Faith is the only non-Christian religion in Kiribati with a notable number of followers. This religion was introduced in Kiribati in the early 20th century, as narrated by former Faith leader Abdu'l-Bahá. The official languages are Kiribati (Gilbertese) and English.
The most important aspect of etiquette and social interaction for locals and guests includes behavior in the "mane," a place with appropriate seating and ways to interact. Humility and modesty are highly valued in all aspects of life. Direct eye contact is unusual and considered inappropriate, especially direct staring at a higher-status person or interrupting conversations with eye contact. Touching the head is considered very intimate, and the top of the head is a taboo area. Modest clothing is important for women, and cleanliness of body and clothing is highly valued.
Work is divided by gender: men do fishing, gather toddy, and perform heavy construction work, while women care for children, cook, and maintain the home. Both genders cultivate crops. While women may gather fish and often collect shellfish from lagoons, only men may gather toddy. Each household has a clear ranking, usually headed by the eldest man unless he is too old to be active. Domestic activities are controlled by a senior married woman. While Kiribati society is now egalitarian, democratic, and respects human rights, in traditional culture women have a secondary role. Employment opportunities for women are limited or nonexistent.
It is worth knowing that about 98% of the people living in this country are Micronesian and have a strong interest in smoking. Cigarette packs are always seen on dining tables. They even smoke while eating, and smoking is considered a real social activity among them. It can be said that this habit costs the people of Kiribati a lot each month, yet it also serves as a great opportunity for socializing.
According to the country’s culture, people greatly enjoy visiting each other and consider it a real value. The cultural principles of this country require that macro policies must be evaluated because cultural situations can influence changes in some people's culture. The culture of the people of Kiribati is supported only if a person can form a real structure. Kiribati people generally prefer group living, and a joyful atmosphere among people is an important and enjoyable function.
National Day Celebrations: The biggest and most famous annual event in this country is Independence Day from British colonial rule on July 12, 1989. July 12 is also declared a national holiday and is celebrated every year from July 10 to 12 across the country. During your visit, you can enjoy colorful parades, traditional boat races, the Miss Kiribati ceremony, and traditional dance competitions.
Youth Festival: Another special commemoration, considered one of the best festivals and events, is Youth Day, usually held on August 5. Since the youth play a major role in the country's economy and politics, the government supports all its programs to advance young people.
There is not much food variety in this country, and if you see a shipment of fresh food during your travel, be sure to buy it because it will not last long. Generally, the variety and quantity of food depend on the number of supply boats, which is increasing and improving. Although Western products are limited, raw materials are widely available. The main diet of the people consists of rice and fish, which can be found in many food stores in Tarawa. You can also try local sashimi, served fresh from the ocean. Western meals are usually available only in the Mary and Otinai hotels.
The first group to enter Kiribati were the British in 1837. In 1892, the people of Kiribati managed to assess the country’s position. However, real British support began only at the beginning of the 20th century. After that, these islands have been evaluated due to their regional strategic position.
