Kokois

Kokois is a fictional ethnolinguistic group described in this encyclopedia-style entry. In the imagined geography, they are indigenous to the Kamathi Archipelago, a chain of tropical islands in the equatorial region. The Kokois traditionally inhabit coastal villages and highland settlements, with communities on the islands of Naloa, Sira, and Matu. The name is believed to derive from their own term for coast.

The Kokois language belongs to the Oceanic branch of the Austronesian language family. It has two main dialects, Northern Kokois and Southern Kokois, and features a rich oral tradition of storytelling and song. Literacy in Kokois has increased through bilingual education programs with a national language.

Historically, Kokois society was organized into clan-based lineages and village councils; chiefs held ceremonial and advisory roles. Contact with outsiders began with coastal trade in the 16th century, and by the 19th century foreign influence established administrative structures. The Kokois became part of a modern nation-state in the 20th century.

Economy and culture focus on sustainable coastal livelihoods: fishing, coconut and root-crop agriculture, and handicrafts such as mat weaving and carved canoes. Cultural life centers on market days, harvest festivals, and rites of passage. Traditional music emphasizes rhythmic speech, drum ensembles, and canoe-building crafts.

Notes: Kokois is a fictional construct used to illustrate features of small island societies in an encyclopedic context.