The President of the Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs, Chief Paul Robert Ravun, has publicly opposed the promotion of contraceptives in Vanuatu, stating that it is not aligned with the country’s cultural values.

Chief Ravun made the remarks during the official launch of National Health Week on Monday at Saralana Park in Port Vila. He said that while the use of contraceptives is being supported by the Ministry of Health, it does not reflect the traditional beliefs of the people of Vanuatu.

“The use of contraceptives—the act of preventing women from conceiving—is not part of Vanuatu’s kastom,” Chief Ravun stated. “I urge the Minister of Health and the government to reconsider and say no to this practice.”

The Malvatumauri President warned that the consequences of encouraging contraceptive use could have wider implications for the country, not only from a cultural standpoint but also economically and socially.

He called on the government to prioritize policies that align with Vanuatu’s customs and to carefully assess the long-term impact of reproductive health strategies being promoted across the nation.