Three new projects to meet the needs of communities will be funded by the Japanese Government through the Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP).

Japanese Ambassador to Tonga, HE Tetsuya Ishii, signed the agreements on 26 February, for the renovation of the Queen Salote College classroom building, upgrade of the Nukunuku Village water supply systems, and renovation of a community centre on ‘Eua.

HE Tetsuya Ishii said our embassy attaches importance to a good quality learning environment for students, access to clean and plentiful water, and the empowerment of communities through various activities.

At Queen Salote College, the project will restore the Technical and Vocational Education and Training facility.

“It is our belief that both education and training of the youth are the base for developing a community, and it will become the key for further developing a country as a whole,” he said.

The upgrade of the water system project in Nukunuku will increase accessibility for a stable and clean water supply.

“I am certain that the upgraded water system will help build stronger and healthier communities so that people can continue their efforts for further development.”

The project to renovate a centre on ‘Eua “will serve as a beacon of hope for the people of 'Eua, through various training programs and outreach activities”.

“It will also serve as a steady shelter during times of disaster as well as a place for the distribution of basic needs after a disaster,” he added.

The Ambassador also urged communities to take good care of the facilities.

“After these projects are completed, please use the facilities in a sustainable manner so that many more future generations will be able to enjoy the benefits of the projects.”

Almost 290 GGP projects have been completed throughout Tonga to date.

The GGP was introduced in 1990 to respond to the challenges of acquiring basic human needs for communities at the grass-root level throughout Tonga. GGP’s main objective is to directly meet the various needs of communities with a prompt approach.