Gov’t strengthens long-term support for MV Barima families
August 18 2026
President Dr Irfaan Ali says the Government is strengthening its long-term support for families affected by the MV Barima tragedy, with assistance being coordinated across health, social services, legal, financial and other areas.
Speaking at a press conference at the Office of the President earlier today, Ali said the Government’s priority remains maintaining close contact with all affected families, including those who lost loved ones, persons who remain missing and families of workers who were aboard the vessel.
Particular attention is being given to families with children, women and parents who may require additional assistance.
The President said the HEART initiative has been established as a long-term, multi-stakeholder mechanism to address the needs of affected families beyond the immediate aftermath of the tragedy.
Support under the initiative includes assistance with documentation and legal matters, mental health and medical care, counselling, spiritual support and assistance for children.
Consideration is also being given to establishing a special home for children affected by the tragedy.
The initiative will also assess the material and financial needs of families, with the Government taking a holistic approach to the social, emotional, medical and family-related challenges arising from the disaster.
Ali said an outreach plan is being developed to bring support directly to affected communities, while regional networks and hubs are being established to provide continued assistance.
He also disclosed that he has been personally maintaining contact with several affected families.
### Salvage Efforts Advance
Meanwhile, efforts to salvage the MV Barima are progressing, with the Government moving to the next stage of the process.
Ali said the expression of interest process has closed, with approximately 10 companies submitting expressions of interest. Several entities have since been shortlisted by the relevant agency.
The shortlisted companies will now be invited to submit financial proposals for the salvage operation.
The Government’s efforts to recover the vessel are taking place alongside the ongoing Commission of Inquiry into the tragedy, which is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and provide recommendations to prevent a recurrence.
