A milestone in the traditional sphere of governance in the Marshall Islands was reached last Saturday with the opening of the Lolelaplap Headquarters in Kwajalein Atoll.
The Mojen (domain) eo an Iroojlaplap Bweio Jeimata Kabua is one of four domains in the Ralik Chain, under the leadership of Iroojlaplap Michael LaMañiñi Kabua. Last Saturday, the expansive new headquarters facility — which features the history of the domain in artwork, traditional weaving, and other displays — was officially opened and blessed. The event was also a delayed 79th birthday celebration for Iroojlaplap Mike.
The Lolelaplap HQ is on a small island north of Ebeye formerly named Loj’ae Rok that was renamed Eneen Jabro.
To mark the occasion of the opening of Lolelaplap HQ, Iroojlaplap Mike convened the Council of Alap, a group of 12 representatives from the various atolls and islands under the domain, to discuss matters of importance to the traditional leaders. This domain has land rights and guardianship of the clans hailing from the atolls and islands spread from the central to northern regions of the Ralik Chain.
A big turnout of leaders from around the Marshall Islands joined the celebration last weekend.
For the meetings with Iroojlaplap Mike and the Council of Alap, a wide range of national government and non-government representatives whose work affects traditional leaders were invited to make presentations and provide updates on work for the domain leaders to better understand, offer insights, and provide support to improve operations.
Among the offices and areas of interest to the traditional leaders for presentations:
- RMI Climate Change Directorate
- RMI National Nuclear Commission
- Customary Law and Language Commission
- Office of Commerce, Investment and Tourism
- Waan Aelon in Majol
- Land Registration Authority
- Kwajalein Atoll Sustainability Lab
- Reimaanlok updates 2024
- School of Culture.