At long last, we are excited to report that the YWAM KOHA is in Fiji. For those who have been on this journey with us, you know that the world-wide lockdowns delayed our deployment for several years. Seeing the work begin is the fulfilment of our heart’s desire.
The YWAM KOHA arrived in the Port of Suva on August 3. The ship is scheduled to spend three months in Fiji providing free dental and health services.
When we arrived in Suva, we were honoured and warmly welcomed at a dockside ceremony featuring national dignitaries, religious leaders and the lively Fijian Police Band.
The exuberant ceremony included comments from the New Zealand High Commission to Fiji, Representative Virginia Dawson, the Permanent Secretary of the Health and Medical Services, Dr. James Fong and Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Sakeo Ganivatu, and Rev. Ili Vunisuwai, the President of the Methodist Churches of Fiji.
More than 100 volunteers from many nations will be mobilised during this deployment including healthcare professionals, mariners and general volunteers. (Volunteer positions for mariners are still available).
We are incredibly encouraged by the doors that are opening for our work in this beautiful nation. It is significant that our first volunteer dentist is from Fiji. We believe this is a powerful sign of what’s to come as we walk together with the Fijians to empower health in their nation.
We at YWAM Ships Aotearoa are full of anticipation for what’s ahead for this deployment and the many years ahead. We look forward to the individual lives and entire communities that will be touched–and for the partnerships that will be established and strengthened.
