The Fijian government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that no citizen is left behind by launching the new maritime work vessel, MV Colata. The commissioning ceremony took place in Suva, officiated by Sakiasi R Ditoka, the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, who described the moment as a source of pride for the Ministry, the government, and the entire Fijian populace.
Funded with an investment of $342,000, the MV Colata is designed to function as a mobile government office and a disaster response vessel, primarily serving the remote outer islands of Lau. This innovative vessel will facilitate direct access for government officers from various ministries to these islands, enabling residents to obtain essential services without the need for costly and time-consuming journeys to Suva or divisional offices.
Minister Ditoka emphasized the vessel’s critical role during emergencies, stating, “When disaster strikes, this vessel will be a lifeline, delivering emergency supplies and transporting assessment teams to ensure no island is left isolated or forgotten.”
The MV Colata is not just a practical resource; it also carries cultural significance. It is named after the chiefly lineage of Nayavu in Tailevu, symbolizing the connection between the Tailevu and Lau provinces. Ditoka highlighted that this vessel embodies the heritage of Nayavu, serving as a bridge to the people of Lau and representing the concept of “vanua” in motion—reflecting unity through service.
This initiative is in line with the broader efforts by the Fijian government to enhance resilience in disaster response and to improve access to essential services in harder-to-reach areas. The development of the MV Colata represents a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and supportive framework for Fijians living in remote communities.
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