For 65-year-old farmer and fisherman Veramu Saumaki of Kavala Village in Kadavu, the new boat and engine will mean safer travel for his family, easier access to Government services, reliable transport for farm produce, and a safer way to take his grandchildren to and from school.
The projects were handed over by Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Mosese Bulitavu under the Ministry's Seafaring Entrepreneurial Assistance Programme.
The Government says it invested about $90,000 in the six projects.
Bulitavu says reliable sea transport is essential for maritime communities, providing access to schools, health centres, markets and workplaces while helping families stay connected.
He says programmes such as the Seafaring Entrepreneurial Assistance Programme are helping rural and maritime communities become more self-reliant and improve their livelihoods.
The Minister also encouraged recipients to take good care of the boats and engines so they can continue to benefit their communities for many years.
Saumaki says the assistance will make travelling safer and easier for his family while improving access to essential services and helping him support his livelihood.
Another recipient, 65-year-old Eremasi Seru of Sawaieke in Gau, thanked the Government for recognising the needs of maritime communities.
He says safe and reliable sea transport is vital for island communities, and the assistance will help improve their daily lives and support their livelihoods.
