Tonga's Pacific Resilience Project (PREP) was presented by Tonga government officials to visiting World Bank (WB) delegates this week, as Tonga seeks more initiatives and assistance to strengthen natural disaster resilience.

The WB delegates, who manage the portfolio in the region, were welcomed by Lu'isa Tu'i'āfitu Malolo, the Acting Chief Executive Officer for MEIDECC, in  Nuku'alofa on 23 November.

 The World Bank delegation included Stephen Ndegwa Country Director, Paul Vallely, WB Operations Manager for the Pacific PNG and Pacific Islands, and Stefano Mocci, Country Manager South Pacific.

The PREP project under MEIDECC presented the project's activities, achievements, ongoing work and work plan for Tonga.

“This was an opportunity for the PREP project and stakeholders to showcase the achievements and to collaborate with the World Bank,” MEIDECC stated.

During their 3 days visit the delegation will meet the Tongan Government and visit project sites supported by the WB, including the outer Islands of Vava’u.

National Emergency Management Office

AtLuisa Taunga, Senior Assistant Secretary from NEMO, made a presentation on the NEMO's roles during the Hunga-Tonga Hunga-Ha'apai volcanic eruption and tsunami, and the support provided by the PREP project.

Participants included, 'Ofa Fa'anunu Director Meteorological Department; Lēveni 'Aho PREP Implementation Support Specialist; Dr. 'Elina Bloomfield, PREP Comms and M&E;. Natalia Palu Lātū, WB Liaison Officer; Mr. Rennie Vaiomo'unga, Senior Geologist, NRD;  'Ana Kolokihakaufisi PREP Project manager; Tapuali'i Fisi'ihoi PREP Administration; and Finau Hūfanga PREP Telecommunication Specialist.