Vanuatu comes together to honor 45 lives lost at sea in recent weeks

People gathered at Feiawa Park on Sunday, joined by the country’s leaders, for a remembrance service honoring the 45 lives lost at sea in the MV Matui tragedy and the Erromango boat incident. Image: RNZ

VANUATU Prime Minister Jotham Napat has joined government ministers, traditional leaders,  families, and friends of 32 people who perished when the inter-island vessel MV Matui sank three weeks ago.

The boat sank between Santo and Ambae in heavy seas on September 11 and 30 people remain missing. Two people have been confirmed dead and 14 survived the sinking.

“To the Families, thank you for allowing us to mourn with you,” said Napat.

‘’The sea may have separated us, but we are united in this accident. Vanuatu will stand as one to build safer seas.’’