Sumi community Merhulietsa Kohima marks silver jubilee

The Sumi Community Merhulietsa, Kohima, celebrated its Silver Jubilee on September 13 at Molu-Ki Hall, Merhulietsa Colony, Kohima, with Principal Secretary for Law & Justice, Fisheries & Aquatic Resources, Government of Nagaland, Y. Kikheto Sema, gracing the occasion as the special guest.
In his address, Kikheto Sema emphasized that the essence of a jubilee lies in the spirit of “forgive and forget,” which fosters unity and peaceful coexistence. Recognizing Merhulietsa as one of Kohima’s smallest colonies, he urged residents to remain united, honor the legacy of their pioneers, and uphold responsible citizenship, citing 1 Corinthians 3:6.
Sema highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the Sumi community in Kohima’s development. He noted that the Sumi tribe, one of the largest among the Nagas, shares ties with 14 of the 17 Naga tribes through intermarriage and kinship, and called for continued peaceful coexistence to ensure lasting harmony.
Reflecting on the community’s contributions, Sema recalled the role of Sumi Christians in Kohima dating back to 1907, and the establishment of their own church at Daklane in 1925. He announced that 2025 would mark the Centenary Jubilee of the Sumi Church in Kohima, with a combined Christmas celebration planned for all denominations.
He also detailed the Sumi Aphuyemi community’s voluntary labor between 1930 and 1939 in building Kohima’s infrastructure, including contributions to the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Naga Hospital, Kohima High School, New Secretariat Complex, Kohima Mission Center, and the Kohima–Dimapur road.
Speaking on the community’s motto, “Social Upliftment,” Sema stressed the importance of collective action to improve the socio-economic conditions of marginalized groups. He drew attention to the challenges faced by Northern Sumis and called on civil society and the Church to extend support, advocating for equitable distribution of resources and development.
The programme began with an opening prayer led by pastor SBCK, Khekavi Yeptho. Senior Pastor SABCK, Rev. Dr. Kiyeto Sema, unveiled the Jubilee Souvenir, and the history of the Sumi Community Merhulietsa Kohima was presented by former SCMRHK chairman, Vixepu Swu.
The celebration witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of the Sumi Community, Merhulietsa Panchayat, and invited guests.