More than USD$200,000 grant aid was committed by the Government of Japan to upgrade one kindergarten and two water supply systems in Tongatapu, on August 21.

Japanese Ambassador HE Tetsuya Ishii signed the grant contracts with recipients for the assistance provided under its Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP).

This includes the construction of a new building for Fasi-Mo e- Afi Kindergarten with USD$84,745.

Water system

Lavengatonga village's water system will be upgraded with the installation of a water pump system, tank and pipes with USD$87,862. Similarly, Talafo’ou's water system will be upgraded with USD$84,908.

The Ambassador said early childhood education plays a large role in the growth of a child and their future educational performance leads to the creation of the base for nation building.

“Access to water is an essential part of life. I myself have experienced water shortage during the Cyclone Gita in February and I know how difficult life can be without 24 hours access to water supply. I am happy that we can assist Lavengatonga and Talafo’ou village in upgrading their water supply system."

‘Epeli Finau from Talafo’ou's village water committee thanked the people and Government of Japan for the assistance.

“Your help guarantees better health, better life for us and we thank you.”