Safe drinking water will be easier to access for around 4,000 people in six villages across western and eastern Tongatapu thanks to the New Zealand Government committing NZ$51,000 to restore water supply catchments.

The funds will be provided to Caritas Tonga as part of the Tongan WASH Cluster recovery plan to renovate and rehabilitate five decrepit village rainwater tanks and install three new water refill stations.

Caritas Tonga Programmes Officer Mrs ‘Amelia Ma’afu said the project evolved out of community concerns over water shortages following the prolonged drought period of recent months caused by El Nino. “The work is vital to restoring key infrastructure to the villages, and building greater resilience to future natural disasters,” she said

20 Rotomould water tanks will be placed in positions for village members to easily access.

New Zealand High Commissioner HE Mrs Sarah Walsh is pleased that New Zealand is supporting Caritas Tonga and the WASH Cluster on their drought response.

“The lack of adequate and potable water significantly increases health risks in these communities, particularly for women and children. I commend Caritas Tonga for responding to the need to increase safe water access, ensure villagers are guarded against disease, and improve sanitation. Their work will contribute to building safer, more robust societies,” she said.

Last year, Caritas Tonga successfully completed a similar restoration project of 11 water catchments in Ha’apai.