On a Sunday filled with sunshine on May 26, 2024, the shops, bars, and restaurants in the Bay of Lemons in Nouméa are bustling with activity. At a florist in Orphanage Bay, a small line forms as people prepare to celebrate Mother’s Day. Despite recent violence in the area, the southern neighborhoods along the sea exude a peaceful atmosphere, with terraces full of people enjoying the day. However, underneath this outward tranquility, residents carry with them the weight of recent unrest and violence that has gripped the city since May 13. Many are seeking a brief respite from the tension by venturing out on this sunny Sunday.
A teacher named Mohamed, who arrived in Nouméa in 2022, expresses concern for students who are struggling due to the ongoing violence. He shares that some students have lost their internships and the vocational training programs at local schools have been heavily impacted. As he prepares to visit friends in troubled neighborhoods to lift their spirits, Mohamed worries about the safety of one of his colleagues who lives near the riots. He reflects on the challenges facing the community and fears that the school year may be irreparably disrupted by the recent events.
Laetitia, a native of New Caledonia, and her daughter Chiara, a student preparing for business school entrance exams, are also grappling with the aftermath of recent violence. The pair are saddened by the breakdown of social cohesion in the city, which they once believed in. Despite having been shielded from conflict in the past, Chiara acknowledges the stark divide between the peaceful southern neighborhoods and the chaotic northern areas. Laetitia, in particular, refuses to partake in the carefree atmosphere of the Bay of Lemons, feeling it would be inappropriate given the current situation.
At midday in the Bay of Lemons, a larger-than-usual crowd has gathered, with parking lots filled to capacity. Entrepreneurs Cristèle and Ludivine have set up a stand to sell plants, candles, and jewelry for Mother’s Day. Despite the presence of rioters in the vicinity, they have made the journey from the suburbs of Nouméa to offer a special Mother’s Day gift box. Cristèle expresses fear over the recent outbreaks of violence in the city following a visit by Macron, while Ludivine finds solace in the calm atmosphere of the Bay of Lemons. The tension in the air is palpable as the city grapples with the aftermath of recent events.
The community in Nouméa is struggling to come to terms with the recent violence and unrest that has gripped the city. While the southern neighborhoods present a facade of peace and normalcy, residents are deeply affected by the challenges facing their community. Teachers, students, and entrepreneurs all express concern for the future and work to support those most affected by the recent events. As the city attempts to move forward, the scars of recent events linger, casting a shadow over what was once a vibrant and peaceful city by the sea.
