Weaving "modern" and "traditional" systems together: the kastom economy in Vanuatu

2007 is the Year of the Kastom Economy in Vanuatu, and the BBC article 'Paying in pig tusks in Vanuatu' provides an example of how ni-Vanuatu are exploring ways for the modern, cash-based economy and the customary economy might interact. I'm really only beginning to learn about Vanuatu, and I'm no economist, but I am fascinated by the creativity with which ni-Vanuatu people have sought to bring together the two economic systems so as to not only preserve the kastom economy but increase the capacity of those who have access to the kastom economy but limited access to the cash economy. Apparently school fees can often (always?) be paid with traditional currency, and this article provides an example of library fees being paid for with traditional currency.