Molokaʻi (Malia Ane & Gail Peiterson) —

Along Kamehameha Highway V between mile marker 2 and 3 lies a cultural treasure: Ka Honua Momona (KHM). The website sites the mission:  to be a model of sustainability mauka a makai (from the mountains to the sea). We seek to foster connections between all aspects of the island ecosystem, including the people and culture, and we firmly believe that Molokai can again return to abundance and become a self-sufficient model for all nations.

The facilities and programs at Ka Honua Momona, were a rich blend of old and new.  The offices were state of the art and off the grid with the feel of the offices mirroring the cultural significance of the fishponds and ocean.

The halau, built by interns and community groups, uses the invasive plants that were removed from the fishponds and other inland restoration sites. Ironwood, mangrove, and kiawe logs provide support for the loulu fronds that provide the thatching for the halau and also hides the LED lighting and the Wi-Fi availability to do state of the art presentations in the same location our ancestors once gathered.

KHM staff, Molokaʻi teachers and PVS Education team share ideas in the halau. Photo: G Peiterson

The day was enjoyable and educational because of the positive interactions with the KHM and KUPU interns.  They greeted us with their protocol oli and honi and then shared the work that they proudly accomplished.  It was clear to see by being involved in the restoring of the fishponds they were also restoring themselves and their eyes were opened to possibilities of what could be.

KUPU and KHM interns share the salt production tank they had just harvested salt for the Hōkūleʻa and the World Wide Voyage. Photo: G Peiterson

Ka Honua Momonaʻs primary long-term goals are:  To develop indigenous education systems by revitalizing natural and cultural resources and to perpetuate traditional knowledge and stewardship while evolving with modern technology.  The work at KHM reflects the World Wide Voyage values and goals: “CLOVE ” and Mālama Honua.

• Culture and Indigenous knowledge: Learning the protocol and reviving cultural practices through hands on experiences.
• Leadership: Developing future leaders as the interns lead tours, directed rotations for visiting school groups and are working with community partners.
• Ocean Awareness and Protection: Restoration of fishponds and protecting off shore reefs.
• Voyaging Skills and Values: Value of teamwork, preparation and knowing one’s kuleana to reach the destination.
• Education: Each generation’s knowledge and experiences are shared, valued and celebrated.

Teachers learn about traditional stewardship of the fishponds. Photo: J Ishii