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