Disaster preparedness equipment for 13 outer islands

L-R: Mr. Taani Manutahi and Mr. Sione Taumoefolau. Nuku'alofa, Tonga. 11 August 2025. Photo: Matangi Tonga.

BY Tupou Vaipulu Jr

Disaster preparedness equipment will be sent to 13 islands in Tongatapu and Ha’apai, to help communities better respond and cope with the aftermath of natural disasters.

The equipment is provided by Tonga Red Cross Society, through a project called ‘Climate Risk Early Warning System’ (CREWS), which is funded by the International Red Cross (IRC).

Today, ‘Eueiki Island’s Disaster Committee was the first to receive the equipment, formally handed over to their representative Mr. Taani Manutahi by the Tonga Red Cross Society Secretary General, Mr. Sione Taumoefolau.

The equipment includes first aid kits, a stretcher, protective gears, a chainsaw and more.

The Project Manager, Ms Marika Moala said she will lead a team to the outer islands in Haapai tomorrow, 12 August, to hand over the rest of the equipment.

Disaster preparedness equipment. Nuku'alofa, Tonga. 11 August 2025. Photo: Matangi Tonga.

List of recipients:

1. Ha’afeva
2. Kotu
3. Tungua
4. Fotuha’a
5. ‘O’ua
6. Matuku
7. Nomuka
8. Fonoifua
9. Lofanga
10. Felemea
11. ‘Uiha
12. Nukunukumotu (Siesia)
13. ’Eu’eiki

List of equipment:

• Communication credit for the Community Disaster Committees (Ucall/Digicel)
• First Aid Kit
• Stretcher
• Gumboots
• Safety Helmet
• Solar Radio
• Torch
• Batteries
• Ropes
• Reflector Vest
• Rain Jacket
• Notebooks
• Child Friendly Space Kit (crayons/coloring book/playing cards)
• Blue/Black Pen
• Clear Files
• IEC Materials
• Chainsaw + 20ltr petrol
• Storage Container