Located in the South Pacific Ocean, the Vanuatu archipelago is made up of 83 islands spread over almost 13,000 square kilometres, each with a rich and diverse cultural heritage. Vanuatu’s food culture is deeply rooted in its natural abundance, Indigenous knowledge, and traditional practices. Vanuatu is covered with luxuriant vegetation, which thrives on the very rich soil, wet tropical climate and abundant and regular rainfall. Most of the area is covered with dense forest from the shore to the top of the highest mountains.
Historically, the people of Vanuatu sustained themselves through a balanced, subsistence-based food system rooted in agriculture, fishing, and traditional preservation methods. This has sustained the lives of our ancestors – who were once warriors of this land and who have lived to be 100 while still maintaining their mental and physical capabilities.
Vanuatu’s food culture is more than a source of sustenance; it is a cornerstone of identity, health, and environmental harmony. By fostering pride in traditional food practices and empowering communities to control their food systems, Vanuatu can address modern challenges while honoring its rich heritage. Food sovereignty is not just a path to resilience but a celebration of what makes Vanuatu unique—a vibrant culture sustained by the land, sea, and the wisdom of its people.
