Although Tonga remains CoViD-19 free, the Minister of Health told a WHO Global Forum that government expects the CoVid-19 virus to come into Tonga when the border reopens. She said Tonga is doing its very best to prepare for that.

The virtual meeting of the WHO Global Forum for Government Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officers, was held on 19 June. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the meetings used an online platform.

In her opening address, Hon. Tu’ipulotu said although Tonga remained CoViD-19 free so far, “we are doing our very best now during preparation when we open our border – where we are expecting the virus to come into Tonga”.

Hon. Tu’ipulotu highlighted Tonga’s CoViD-19 preparation activities, including strengthening health facilities, visiting communities to educate and engage them, as well as various training for health staff.

She thanked all nurses and midwives across the globe for their work on CoViD-19 response.

“You are always at the side of those who are suffering, providing necessary care and support, listening to those who wants to be listened, reducing their fears and stress and advocating for their rights.”

The forum saw nursing and midwifery leaders from across the globe gather to discuss key topics of interest to the professions and global health including the first ever State of the world's nursing 2020 report.