The Labo Mewun are a small indigenous group residing in the western part of Malekula Island, Vanuatu's second largest island. Their communities are situated in remote, forested areas, often accessible only by footpaths or small boats. The Labo Mewun language, part of the Malekula language cluster, is spoken within the community, while Bislama serves as the lingua franca for communication with outsiders. Oral tradition is highly valued, with elders recounting stories of migration, clan origins, and the shaping of their land. Despite outside influences, the Labo Mewun have preserved much of their cultural heritage, adapting selectively to changes brought by missionaries and colonial contact.
Labo Mewun society is organized around extended families and clan affiliations. Daily life revolves around subsistence agriculture, with families cultivating taro, yams, and other root crops in garden plots. Hunting, fishing, and gathering wild foods supplement their diet. Meals are typically shared communally, reinforcing social bonds. Traditional houses are constructed from local materials such as bamboo and palm leaves. Social gatherings, including feasts, dances, and storytelling, are important occasions for reinforcing community ties. Children learn practical skills from an early age, participating in gardening, fishing, and household chores. Recreation often takes the form of traditional games, music, and dance, which are woven into the fabric of daily life.
The Labo Mewun are mostly Christian, with Presbyterian and Catholic influences being the most prominent due to missionary activity in the region. However, many continue to hold to traditional spiritual beliefs alongside their Christian faith. The spirit world is considered active and influential; ancestral spirits and local deities are believed to affect health, success, and community well-being. Rituals and ceremonies to honor these spirits are still practiced, especially during times of crisis or transition. While church services are well attended, the blending of Christian and traditional beliefs is common, resulting in a syncretic religious landscape. The Bible is available in Bislama, but not in the Labo Mewun language, which can hinder deeper personal engagement with Scripture.
The Labo Mewun face significant challenges related to health, education, and infrastructure. Access to medical care is minimal, with only basic health posts available locally and more advanced care requiring travel to distant towns. Clean water sources are not always reliable, particularly during dry seasons or after storms. Educational opportunities are limited, especially beyond the primary level, prompting many young people to leave their villages for further schooling. Poor transportation and communication infrastructure make it difficult for residents to access markets, healthcare, and other essential services.
Pray that the Labo Mewun people would come to know Jesus Christ as the only true source of hope and salvation.
Ask God to provide improved access to clean water, healthcare, and educational opportunities for their communities.
Pray for local believers to grow in faith and courage as they share the gospel with their families and neighbors.
If a strong Christian presence develops, pray that they would send workers to other people groups in Vanuatu who have not yet heard the good news of Christ.
Scripture Prayers for the Mewun, Labo in Vanuatu.
https://www.ethnologue.com/language/lmw
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malekula
Lynch, J., & Crowley, T. (2001). Languages of Vanuatu: A New Survey and Bibliography. Pacific Linguistics.
https://www.unicef.org/pacificislands/reports/vanuatu-country-profile
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
