Princess Pilolevu Tuita inspected an exhibition organised by Tongan women this morning at the Digicel Square in Nuku'alofa.

The exhibition by the Langafonua 'a Fafine Tonga (National Council for Women of Tonga) included competitions for artwork, traditional crafts, sewing, food and plants.

The princess met exhibitors and was accompanied by the Japanese Ambassador the New Zealand High Commissioner, and the Acting Australian High Commissioner, in viewing the displays before presenting awards to the various prize winners

In presenting a brief history of Langafonua 'a Fafine Tonga, Naomi T. Hopoate, Langafonua secretary said the non-government organisation was established by the late Queen Sālote in 1953 for the development of women.

“It has benefited women throughout the years with its projects,” she said. More recently, its activities involved men as well, with the gender and development theme.

“The major task is the empowering of women in decision-making, women in politics, income generation and also to give support to providing women with a source of independent income through selling crafts,” she said.

Langa Fonua aims to promote self esteem among individuals and pride among women in villages, to achieve Queen Salote's goal of strengthening Tongan culture through the welfare of women, Naomi said.