Rotuman Fine Mat Weaving holds a cherished place in Fiji’s cultural heritage, particularly on the island of Rotuma, where the art is a symbol of community identity and tradition. In 2006, the iTaukei Trust Fund Board (TTFB) initiated a project to ensure the preservation of this intricate craft, providing funding and support aimed at recognizing and conserving the fine mat weaving skills unique to Rotuma.
The project focused on nurturing these skills among younger generations, raising awareness of the mats’ cultural significance and their historical value. Central to this initiative was the identification and documentation of the different types of fine mats, their diverse sizes, and the distinctive meanings each mat holds within Rotuman culture. Working in collaboration with the Fiji Arts Council, TTFB facilitated workshops specifically for young women in Suva, Lautoka, and Rotuma, reviving the skill, training participants in the weaving techniques, and ensuring that knowledge transfer between generations could continue. This project underscores the deep cultural heritage embodied in fine mat weaving, preserving a precious art form that continues to represent and strengthen Rotuman identity.
