Kamoro Festival a celebration of indigenous culture

Kamoro Festival a celebration of indigenous culture

Although not as well known as the neighboring Asmat tribe, which
has become a household name, the Kamoro people are blessed with a
rich cultural heritage. With a total population of about 18,000
people, the Kamoro live along 300 kilometers of coastline in
northern Papua, facing the Arafura Sea.

Last week, the Kamoro gathered at the riverine village of
Pigapu, about a two-hour drive from Timika, the capital of Mimika
regency, to celebrate their culture. The event included an
auction of wood carvings, canoe races, dance performances and
traditional food demonstrations.

The annual festival, known as the Kamoro Kauru, gives the
Kamoro the opportunity to teach the outside world about their
unique culture.

Lasting four days, the festival demonstrates that traditional
ways continue to have an important role to play in modern life.
-- Text and photos by P.J. Leo