The Government of Japan has committed over USD$300,000 to fund four community projects to upgrade water supply systems and construct community halls in Tongatapu and Ha’apai.

Japanese Ambassador HE Mr Tetsuya Ishii signed the contracts with recipients today 17 December in Nuku’alofa.

The grant projects include the renovation of a community hall for Fakatouato Kindergarten in Ngele’ia, the upgrade of two water supply systems for Pelehake and 'Alakifonua, and the construction of a new Ha'ano Community Hall on Kauvai Island in Ha’apai.

"I am glad to assist Fakatouato Kindergarten so that the early childhood education provided will encourage the growth of children and their future educational performance, leading to the creation of a good foundation for nation building. As for access to water, it would be greatly improved for the people in Pelehake and 'Alakifonua", said the Ambassador.

He added that the Ha'ano Community Hall on Kauvai Island, would be used for training and to provide safety as an evacuation centre during natural disasters.

The Deputy Chairperson of the Fakatouato PTA, Lokuvalu Leha, thanked Japan for their generous assistance to help communities.

The community projects are implemented under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP).