The Sumi Community Merhulietsa, Kohima, marked its Silver Jubilee, 25 Years of the Community, with great grandeur on 13th September 2025 at Molu-Ki Hall, Merhulietsa Colony, Kohima. Principal Secretary, Law & Justice, Fisheries & Aquatic Resources, Government of Nagaland, Y. Kikheto Sema, IAS, graced the occasion as the Special Guest.
Addressing the gathering, Kikheto Sema stated that the essence of a jubilee is to forgive and forget, which paves the way for unity and peaceful coexistence. Acknowledging Merhulietsa as one of the smallest among Kohima’s 19 colonies, he urged its members to remain united, remember the pioneers who laid its foundation, and uphold the values of responsible citizenship, quoting the Bible verse 1 Corinthians 3:6.
He reminded the community that a strong sense of belonging is essential, particularly while residing in the State capital. Highlighting the significant role of the Sumi community in the formation of Kohima district, he noted that the Sumi, being one of the largest Naga tribes, is bound to 14 out of the 17 Naga tribes, except the Konyak, Phom, and Khiamniungan, but are connected to all tribes through intermarriage and blood ties. If we remain united and coexist peacefully with all other tribes, peace and tranquillity will prevail, he added.
Reflecting on history, Kikheto recalled that during the colonial era, Nagaland was divided into the Kohima ilaqa, Mokokchung ilaqa, and the Tuensang NEFA, where the Sumi contributed significantly due to their central geographical position. He highlighted that as early as 1907, Sumi Christians held congregations in Kohima Mission Church, and in 1921, with the permission of missionary J.E. Tanquist, they established their own church at Daklane in 1925. This year, 2025, marks the Centenary Jubilee of the Sumi Church in Kohima. He also announced that a combined Christmas celebration of all denominations of Sumi will be held at Kohima this year.
Citing further contributions, particularly by the Sumi Aphuyemi Community, he said that between 1930 and 1939, they played an active role in building Kohima’s infrastructure. He recalled how the community volunteered for three days of labour in earth cutting and stone breaking for the construction of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office and the present Naga Hospital (initially planned as a school by the British) and also contributed to the Kohima High School for 3 days, the present New Secretariat Complex (formerly a British airfield) worked for 4 days, public ground for 3 days, Kohima Mission Center 3 days and the Kohima–Dimapur road, where Sumi volunteers worked on the 10th and 11th mile Zubza stretches for 10 days. He emphasised that the contributions of the Sumi community to the growth and development of Kohima cannot be ignored.
Speaking on the motto of the Sumi Community Merhulietsa, “Social Upliftment”, Kikheto explained that it refers to collective efforts aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of disadvantaged groups through education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and justice. Stressing that social justice is the need of the hour, he drew attention to the challenges faced by the Northern Sumis, who continue to struggle economically, politically, and socially, without access to basic facilities. He appealed to the community, civil society, and the church to extend support, and urged everyone to embrace the spirit of togetherness, reminding them that Wellness begins with all, while Illness begins alone. "The need of the hour is social upliftment, equal distribution of power, development and resources", he stated.
Concluding his address, he expressed hope that the Jubilee celebration would serve as a source of unity and strengthen relationships not only within the Sumi community but also with other Naga tribes.
Earlier in the programme, Pastor SBCK, Khekavi Yeptho, led the opening prayer, while Senior Pastor SABCK, Rev. Dr. Kiyeto Sema, unveiled the Jubilee Souvenir. The history of the Sumi Community Merhulietsa Kohima was presented by Vixepu Swu, former Chairman of SCMRHK.
The celebration witnessed the participation of members of the Sumi Community from Merhulietsa, the Merhulietsa Panchayat, and other invitees.
(Avika Awomi, IA)
