Boats commissioned to improve access to healthcare, other services in Region One

Residents of remote riverine communities in Region One will now benefit from improved access to healthcare and essential public services, following the commissioning of three boats and engines during a simple ceremony held on Tuesday at Kumaka.

The commissioning was spearheaded by Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, who was accompanied by Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley, Deputy Regional Executive Officer Shem Cuffy, and other regional officials.

Two of the boats have been assigned to the Regional Health Department to serve the Mabaruma and Matarkai sub-regions. One vessel, valued at $7.4 million and equipped with a 150-horsepower engine, was procured under the Ministry of Health’s 2024 budget.

The second, costing $5.1 million and outfitted with a 75-horsepower engine, was acquired through the 2024 budget of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC).

Minister Croal, who is the parliamentary representative of the region, explained that the new vessels will play a crucial role in improving healthcare delivery by supporting emergency medical responses, facilitating outreach services, and ensuring timely delivery of medication and medical supplies to interior villages.

“For routine checks, we don’t have to wait for persons to visit hospitals or health centres,” Minister Croal noted. “We can now conduct outreaches—whether for dental care or other services—and ensure medical supplies are promptly transported to the villages.”

He also reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding healthcare infrastructure in the region, including investments in telemedicine services and the deployment of qualified medical personnel.

The third boat, valued at $7.6 million and powered by a 200-horsepower engine, was also funded through the RDC and will be used to support administrative functions across the region.

Regional Chairman Ashley noted that the boat will enhance the ability of regional officers to monitor and assist communities effectively.

“I’m very pleased that we are now able to improve the level of services offered by the RDC to the people of Region One,” Ashley stated.