EFATE

also called Vat, formerly Sandwich, most important island of Vanuatu, in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. Volcanic in origin, it occupies an area of 353 sq mi (915 sq km), and its highest peak is Mt. Macdonald, 2,123 ft (647 m). Its terrain is rugged and covered by tropical rain forest, nurtured by its warm and humid climate. Vila (q.v.), capital of the Republic of Vanuatu, lies on the southwest coast of fat; it has a good harbour (Ml Bay) and an international airport. Havannah Harbour, on the north coast, also provides good anchorage. The island produces copra, coffee, cacao, cattle, and sheep and has potential for a lumbering industry. Manganese ore is mined at Forari under Australian management. Pop. (1979 prelim.) 16,921.