A donation of 200 solar home lighting units received by the Tonga Red Cross Society will be distributed to families affected by the 2022 HTHH volcanic eruption and tsunamis, with priority to the outer islands of Ha'apai.

The donation which includes livelihood materials, is from the Government of India's Pacific Island Regional Initiative. 

Tonga Red Cross Secretary-General, Sione Taumoefolau, said today the solar units will be distributed to affected families, with priority to the outer islands of Ha'apai.

"The Government  of India nominated Tonga Red Cross to distribute on their behalf and benefit to those in outer islands, especially those in Ha’apai group who lost their belongings."

He extended gratitude to the Government of India for the donation. The distribution is expected to begin in April.

TRCS will work with individuals who went and trained in India to carry out the installments on the roof.

Meanwhile, the off-loading of the equipment was assisted by frontliners including HMAF and Tonga Police officers on 29 March.