Tonga marked White Ribbon Day to stop violence against women with the Ministry of Police holding a free breakfast and entertainment for children and their families this morning, followed by a march by activists through Nuku’alofa this afternoon.

The Tonga Police Band led the march from Queen Salote Hall to the Digicel Square in Nuku'alofa where a 16-day campaign was launched to end gender-based violence. Joining the march were organisations, advocates, individuals and groups. 

The event was attended by the guest of honour, Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. Penisimani Fifita, and the Australian Ambassador for White Ribbon Day HE Mr Andrew Ford.

Also in attendance was Acting Attorney General, ‘Aminiasi Kefu, former Attorney General Alisi Taumoepeau, Police Commissioner Stephen Caldwell and Father Seluini ‘Akau’ola. 

Prizes were awarded to the winners of poetry and essay school competitions and brochures on Violence-Free Families and Relationship Rights were distributed.

A 16-day calendar of events will be held for free for the public to help raise awareness of women’s rights and other disadvantaged and marginalized groups in Tongan society as well as advocate for mechanisms to support victims and survivors of abuse.

The campaign hopes to reach out to men to take the pledge of the white ribbon “to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence toward women”.

Today’s event was funded by the Ministry of Police, Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) and the Ministry of Internal Affairs.