[2] The beginnings of the foundation of Te Umanibong date to 1971, when the intention was set after a UNESCO meeting in Suva.

In order for the museum to be built, a sea wall had to be constructed to drain and reclaim the land.

[7][5] During the 1970s the Tungavalu Society began to establish a museum collection, this was initially based on donations from I-Kiribati and foreign workers.

A public appeal was made for objects relating to Kiribati's history, either for loan for the duration of the display or to form part of the national collection.

[5] The museum displays focus on the material culture of Kiribati under themes which include: mwaneabas, pandanus basketry, dance costumes, fishing.