Soldiers from the Engineers Regiment left for Lau yesterday to carry out essential renovations and repairs to key infrastructure in preparation for the traditional installation ceremonies of the Turaga na Tui Nayau, Sau ni Vanua ko Lau, and Tui Lau.
The installation ceremony on Nayau is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, July 8.
A social media post by Yavusa Maumi – Narocivo, Nayau, Lau states the involvement of the soldiers is part of Operation Veibuli.
“The initial installation will take place on Nayau Island where the Tui Nayau will first be traditionally installed,” said the post.
“Following this, he will be transported to Lakeba, where the second phase of the installation will occur—formalizing his role as Sau ni Vanua ko Lau and Tui Lau, in the presence of the vanua o Lau.”
33 soldiers departed yesterday to carry out repairs to Vuanirewa, the chiefly residence of the Tui Nayau, as well as significant renovations to church buildings.
A second deployment is expected to arrive by the second week of June, bringing the total number of engineers on the ground to 60.
