A new $342,000 workboat that will deliver essential services and disaster support to the outer islands of the Lau Group was commissioned yesterday.
Funded by the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, the MV Colata will serve as a mobile government office and emergency response platform.
It will carry ministry officials directly to remote communities, bringing services such as health, education, and economic support to the people’s doorsteps.
“This commissioning is not just about a vessel, it is about bridging the gap between Suva and the islands, between policy and people, between hope and reality,” Minister for Rural, Maritime Development and Disaster Management Sakiasi Ditoka said.
The MV Colata, meaning “to carry”, is named in honour of the chiefly lineage of Nayavu in Tailevu and Lau.
“Today is a proud moment for our ministry, for the Coalition Government, and for the people of Fiji,” Mr Ditoka said.
Built locally by Integrated Welding Industries, the vessel also reflects growing confidence in Fijian technical expertise.
“This is what national development should be like — Fijians building for Fiji.”
The vessel will play a vital role in disaster response, delivering urgent supplies and support to isolated islands during emergencies.
