Video sparks debate about the role of the tou'a in Tonga

By Jean Marc 'Ake 

Suva (PacNews) —The role of the tou'a has become a topic of hot debate on Tongan social media spaces after a clip from a podcast caused quite a reaction from several Tongan netizens, most of whom were men.

Back in August a podcaster and entrepreneur, 'Akanesi Kaufusi, released a clip from her Pacific Empowerment Podcast on her social platforms. In the clip, she discussed the role of the tou'a in contemporary spaces and dubbed it a “watered-down version of prostitution.”

Kaufusi believes that the tou'a should be banned since women are paid for their services and preyed upon by mostly married men. She adds that women who tou'a are sexualized by men and are present for their entertainment, instead of being respected for carrying out this duty.

Kaufusi argued that this is a sinful tradition that continues from generation to generation.

While some supported Kaufusi's message, there were also strong opposing reactions. Some men called out Kaufusi, claiming that her words are disrespectful to the long traditional history of the tou'a.

Some claimed that incidents of sexualization and harassment of the tou'a are isolated events and that men ensure her safety and well-being.

Some have ridiculed Kaufusi's claims and have allegedly made personal attacks against her.

Since Kaufusi's video first gained traction in Tongan online spaces, more women have come forth to share their stories with Kaufusi about the ill treatment they've experienced while serving as a tou'a.

Traditionally, a tou'a is an unwed young woman who is bestowed with the duty to serve kava to men. Before, the tou'a was a role taken by women for courtship by an unmarried man. The tradition of faka'apa'apa or the brother-sister (or female cousin) is often maintained and if the tou'a is found to be a relative of any man in the kava group, he would leave the session.

There are unwritten protocols and rules to the faikava depending on who you're talking to, but the faka'apa'apa and respect for the tou'a are consistent aspects.

Over the years, several women have come forward as well as clips of kava circles that show that the role of tou'a is not being kept sacred.

Malia Tu'ineau, a student in USP Laucala, says that her experience as a tou'a has been quite challenging.

Tu'ineau is aware of the cultural significance of the tou'a and respects it, but she says her experience hasn't always reflected this respect.

“There have been many times when I felt uncomfortable because of the things some men would say while I was serving kava. Comments that were flirtatious, sexual, or just plain disrespectful made it hard for me to feel safe or appreciated,” she said.

“I felt like I was being watched and judged not as someone carrying out an important duty, but as someone there for their amusement,” she added.

Tu'ineau has described the environment as toxic and commended Kaufusi for her bold statements in calling out the way in which the tou'a role has been twisted in modern settings.

“Comparing it to a lighter version of prostitution might sound extreme, but I do understand where she's coming from,” she said. “When women are constantly sexualised, flirted with, or disrespected especially by married men it does start to feel like you're being objectified, not respected.”

Meanwhile, Alo Veikuna, a kava enthusiast said that the tou'a shouldn't be banned but admits there needs to be more awareness on issues raised. “In contrast to online debate over the issues regarding the tou'a in the Faikava setting-personally, I think this cultural aspect of having a tou'a should remain; however, the awareness regarding the treatment of the tou'a is what should change.”

As of writing, Kaufusi has yet to respond to questions about her statements and the online responses she has  received.

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