By Katalina Siasau
The construction of one of four aged care facilities in Tonga began yesterday, 15 July, with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Houma Aged Care Centre in Houma.
The Integrated Aged Care Facility project is approximately US$16 million (about TOP$38 million) co-funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Japan.
The project aims to strengthen Tonga’s social protection system and improve the quality of care and support services for older people.
Hon. ‘Atuamu’a Vaea, representing the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly and Estate Holder of Houma, Lord Vaea, acknowledged the support from ADB and the Government of Japan.
Integrated Aged Care (IAC) Project Manager, Manu Manuofetoa, said the Houma aged care centre as the pilot initiative will be followed by three other facilities to be built across Tongatapu and Vava’u, with two more in Tongatapu and one in Vava’u.
He noted the facilities will offer services including rehabilitation, social activities, and other home-based support.
Manuofetoa said the Houma facility will serve as a vital centre for the people of Houma and the western district.
The project was designed and is supervised by iTS Pacific Ltd and is being constructed by ‘Ofa Construction Services.
Ambassador of Japan to Tonga, H.E. Inagaki Hisao, said, “Japan will continue to share experience, build capacity, and explore innovative approaches to support safe and independent living. I am very pleased that Japan can contribute to this important endeavour through the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific.”
Acting CEO of Finance, ’Aivi Fakahua, representing ADB, noted how migration and changing family structures are placing increasing pressure on the traditional care system that has long supported older people.
She said that in 2022, around 9% of Tonga’s population was aged 60 or above, and this figure is projected to increase to around 13% by 2050.
“For ADB, the integrated aged care project reflects a broader commitment to helping its developing member countries build inclusive and resilient societies in which people can live with dignity throughout their lives.”
Distinguished guests included the Minister for Internal Affairs Hon. Fane Fotu Fituafe, Acting PM Hon. Dr Viliami Latu, executive officers of government ministries, and members of the diplomatic corps and development partners.
This facility is the first of its kind in Tonga.
