60 families in Viro, Ovalau, are set to benefit from improved market access and increased income opportunities following the handover of a new boat to Viro Cooperative Limited.
The 23-foot fibreglass boat, powered by a 60-horsepower Yamaha outboard engine, was funded through a $15,960 grant from the Coalition Government under the Cooperative Development Fund, with the cooperative contributing $6,840 towards the total cost of $22,800.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Industries, Commerce and Business Development, Manoa Kamikamica, officiated at the handover in Viro, Bureta, Ovalau, on October 30th.
Kamikamica says the new vessel will provide a more reliable means of transporting fish and other marine products to markets in Tailevu and it will also support the transportation of agricultural produce and supplies for the cooperative's retail business.
Established on January 13th, 1970, Viro Cooperative has supported the livelihoods of its members through fishing, farming and retail trade for more than five decades.
The cooperative's financial performance has also shown improvement, with sales increasing from just under $88,000 in 2024 to nearly $97,000 in 2025.
He commended the cooperative's members for their commitment and contribution towards the purchase, saying the assistance reflected the importance of government and community partnerships in strengthening rural businesses.
Kamikamica also urged the cooperative's leadership to ensure the boat was properly maintained, managed transparently and operated safely.
Meanwhile, Viro Cooperative chairman Filipe Ledua thanked the Government for supporting rural communities and helping strengthen the cooperative's operations after years of financial difficulties.
Ledua says the assistance would provide renewed opportunities for members to rebuild their business and improve their livelihoods.
He says beyond improving transportation, the new boat is also expected to create opportunities for young people to develop practical skills in vessel operations and maintenance.
The project is expected to strengthen economic activities in Viro while helping improve the income-generating opportunities of the 60 families connected to the cooperative.
