A new evacuation and community hall for the island of ‘Eueiki and renovated kitchen facilities for Tupou College, Toloa, will be constructed under Japan's Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Project (GGP),with funding for the two projects totalling over USD $260,000.
The grant contracts were signed on Friday, 24 October, in Nuku’alofa, by the Acting Ambassador of Japan to Tonga, Mr. Toshiyuki Daishoji, with the 'Eueiki Community Committee and the PTA of Tupou College Toloa.
“To both recipients, today is just the beginning. These are your projects. I would like to ask all of you to take the initiative to complete the construction process and make your project a success by having a good communication among stakeholders including your community members, contractors, auditors, and our GGP coordinator. Furthermore, once your project is complete, please ensure that the necessary maintenance of the facilities is taken care of, so that they can be utilized by future generations," Mr. Toshiyuki Daishoji said.
The first project is the construction of an evacuation centre and community hall for the people of 'Eueiki island.
In 2022, the Hunga-Tonga, Hunga-Ha'apai volcanic eruption and tsunami devastated the island of 'Eueiki and among the buildings that were destroyed was their community hall.
"In recognition of the need to prepare for natural disasters, the Government of Japan is providing over USD$ 110, 000 to construct a new community hall for 'Eueiki. It will be fully equipped with 4 toilets, 2 bathrooms, a kitchen and a storage room," the Acting Ambassador said.
The second project is the renovation of the kitchen facilities in Tupou College Toloa. Through this project, new kitchen tops, sinks and other facilities will be provided to ensure that the cooking is done in a safe and sanitized environment.
"It is our firm belief that a good school environment is significant for a student’s successful journey in education. As such, we will be providing Tupou College with over USD140, 000 to renovate the kitchen facilities of their dormitory."
Lady Maafu ackowledged the assistance from Japan, and said, "I extend our heartfelt thanks to the Government of Japan for your unwavering commitment to supporting grassroots development in Tonga. Your generosity will have a lasting impact on our school and our wider community.”
