Sports equipment valued at $1.4 million pa’anga was handed over by the Government of Japan to the Government of Tonga on Friday, March 2.

Equipment included discs for weighting lifting, long jump triple jump, shot put equipment, track, hurdle and boxing gear among other items, sent in nine containers and handed over by the Japanese Ambassador H.E Mr. Tetsuya Ishii to Hon. ‘Akosita Lavulavu, Minister for Internal Affairs.

The Ambassador remembered the nationwide excitement during the Rugby Leaque World Cup last November, which united the people of Tonga in sport.

"I do wish that these provisions will again help unite the country, especially during these difficult times in the aftermath of cyclone Gita."

He also hoped the equipment would contribute greatly to the Tonga's goals of promoting exercise and healthy living for the people, especially in trying to combat non-communicable diseases.

And to be fully utilized to prepare Tongan athletes for regional and international sports competition, and for a successful representation of Tonga in the Rugby World Cup 2019 and the 2020 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Tokyo.

The Minister thanked Japan for their generosity as the new sports equipment will make an immediate difference in the life of Tonga's athletes.

Having proper equipment will improve athletics performance, she said.

The assistance was provided under Japan’s NPGA, a form of commodity aid to promote economic and social development of recipient countries.