Polikalepo Kefu, the Communication/ Project Officer for Tonga Red Cross said today the project will assist to build the resilience capacity of Mo'ungaone residents following Tropical Cyclone Ian in 2014. 

He said the project includes installing water indicators into more than 50 tanks, a multi purpose siren, building a community information center, a rain gauge, planning evacuation routes and mapping, as well as holding simulation exercises and first aid training.

Tonga Red Cross and Tonga Met will work with the people on the island to strengthen their ability to use and apply meteorological data and information and to develop appropriate plans to address climate change and disasters.

A National Implementation Team consisting of representatives from the Tonga Meteorological Office, National Emergency Management Office (NEMO) and Tonga Red Cross visited the remote island of Mo'unga'one for the launch

The boat fully equipped with safety equipment donated by SPREP in Samoa was presented to the locals by Dr Netatua Pelesikoti, Director of Climate Change.

The boat is to evacuate people and take them to Pangai in time of emergencies and. It could also help to generate income.

"The project is aimed to improve monitoring and delivery of weather and climate services at village level. While providing accurate, adequate weather and climate information to better inform routine activities such as fishing, agriculture and resource management."

In addition, the early warning and having more accurate weather information will allow for better preparedness to severe weather events, said Polikalepo.

Mo’unga’one is home to 104 people.