The United Kingdom Kava Coalition (UKKC) has officially launched, beginning with a cultural gathering in Hull to connect with the city’s Pacific Island community.
The event brought together Tongan and Fijian rugby players, who shared kava with UKKC members. Former Premiership player Charlie Beech also joined, voicing his support for protecting Pacific Island heritage and ensuring players can enjoy kava together after matches.
Kava has been consumed safely across the Pacific Islands for over 3,000 years. Despite its cultural and social importance, restrictions introduced in 2002 led to a European ban. Scientific reviews have since found those concerns to be unfounded, yet the UK has not revisited its approach since leaving the EU.
The UKKC is working with Pacific Island governments and diplomatic missions to secure legal recognition of kava in the UK. Attendees included Dr. Simon Gellar, Director of UKKC; Mike Salem, UKKC Kava Advocate; and Douglas La Rose, Executive Director of Kava Coalition.
“This is their cultural heritage,” said La Rose. “To celebrate kava openly in the UK is a milestone, not just for the coalition, but for the Pacific communities we serve.”
Viliami Lolohea, First Secretary at the Tonga High Commission in the UK and diplomatic spokesperson, stated:
"Recognising kava in the UK is both an act of respect and a step toward deeper partnership. It shows that the UK government values the cultural traditions of Pacific Islanders while also strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Tonga, our Pacific neighbours, and the UK as Commonwealth partners.”
The UK is home to more than 12,400 Pacific Islanders, including over 6,700 Fijians, with around 1,500 serving in the British Army. The UKKC will work closely with the High Commissions of Fiji and Tonga and plans to engage with representatives of Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu to expand its reach.
Beyond cultural recognition, kava presents a Commonwealth trade and economic opportunity. For Pacific nations such as Fiji, Tonga, and Vanuatu, kava is a vital export industry. Legal recognition in the UK would not only strengthen community ties but also create sustainable economic links between Britain and its Pacific partners, deepening Commonwealth connections through both heritage and trade.
About United Kingdom Kava Coalition (UKKC)
United Kingdom Kava Coalition (UKKC) works to protect and promote the cultural, social, and economic significance of kava for Pacific Island communities in the UK. Through advocacy, cultural engagement, and government outreach, UKKC aims to secure legal and fair access to kava as a beverage for all who value it.
About Kava Coalition
Kava Coalition is an alliance of kava consumers, experts, and industry leaders committed to advancing kava education, advocacy, and choice. The Kava Coalition aims to empower informed decisions about kava, promoting responsible consumption while understanding the importance of preserving kava’s history and cultural heritage. For more information, visit kavacoalition.org.
Media Contact
Patrick George
+1 916-202-1982
info@kavacoalition.org
