Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
New 'State-of-the-Art' Passenger And Cargo Vessel Arrives In Tuvalu
Tuvalu has weclomed a new "state-of-the-art" passenger and cargo vessel, the Manu Sina, to Funafuti.
The construction of the multi-million-dollar vessel, which arrived on Wednesday, was funded by the Asian Development Bank's (ADB) Asian Development Fund ($30 million), and the Tuvalu government ($3m).
According to the ADB, the vessel is built by Honda Heavy Industries in Saiki, Japan.
"[It] has state-of-the-art navigation systems, is wheelchair-friendly, has gender-segregated toilets and a dedicated area for women."
It said the project is also building the operation and maintenance capacity of the Ministry of Transport, Energy, Communication and Innovation to ensure the sustainability of the investment.
Tuvalu's Minister for Transport, Energy, Communication, and Innovation Simon Kofe said the island nation "waited for this historic day".
"This vessel will be a lifeline for the people in the outer islands and will ensure safer transfer of people and goods and will boost our economy and regional trade," he said.
ADB's Pacific head Emma Veve said the Manu Sina is designed to meet the unique needs of Tuvalu's outer islands, while meeting international standards of fuel efficiency, quality, and safety.
"The ship will play a vital role in boosting connectivity between the outer islands, the capital, Funafuti and neighbouring countries of Fiji and Kiribati, improving people's access to economic opportunities, health clinics, markets and schools," she said.
RNZ
New Zealand's public broadcaster, providing comprehensive NZ news and current affairs, specialist audio features and documentaries.
Radio New Zealand is a Crown entity established under the Radio New Zealand Act 1995. Radio New Zealand News are vital elements in our programming, providing impartial news and information to New Zealanders every day. Radio New Zealand (RNZ) provides listeners with exciting and independent radio programmes in accordance with the Radio New Zealand Charter.
Global Sumud Flotilla: The Siege Will Break - Final Leg To Gaza Following Israeli State Piracy, Abductions And Torture In International Waters
Kiingitanga: Māori Queen Meets HRH Prince William At Windsor Castle
Colin Greer & Reynard Loki, IMI: Criminalizing Childhood - When The Justice System Fails America’s Youth
Global Sumud Flotilla: Saif Abukeshek & Thiago Ávila Released - Victory For International Mobilization; A Reminder Of Who Remains Behind 
Aotearoa Delegation of the Global Sumud Flotilla: The Global Sumud Flotilla Remains Undeterred As Over 30 Boats Depart For Türkiye
UN Special Procedures - Human Rights: Israel Must Immediately Release Gaza-Bound Flotilla Activists, Say UN Experts