Australian Government and MORDI Tonga Trust Sign Finance Agreement for TOP19.6 million Tonga Australia Resilient Communities Program (TARCP).

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and MORDI Tonga Trust (MORDI TT) yesterday signed a Finance Agreement for the Tonga Australia Resilient Communities Program (TARCP), marking a significant step toward rural development and Tonga’s climate resilience.

With a total budget of TOP 19.6 million (AUD 12.9 million) over five years, TARCP will fund community driven infrastructure projects identified in Community Development Plans, including cyclone shelters and water supply systems.

“The signing of this agreement underscores the strong and enduring partnership between Australia and Tonga,” said the Acting Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, Erin Gleeson.

“Through this new initiative we are listening to the voices of rural and outer island communities and directly addressing their pressing infrastructure and climate change needs.”

The TARCP will operate across all five of Tonga’s main island groups and benefit an estimated 37,825 people in 122 rural communities.

“We are excited to implement this transformative initiative,” said Mr Soane Patolo Jr, CEO of MORDI.

“The program’s community-driven approach will provide financial resources and technical support for the implementation of critical infrastructure projects, while also investing in local governance, capacity building, and inclusive leadership development.”

“This includes specific efforts to support women, youth, persons with disabilities, and marginalised groups, ensuring they have equal opportunities to participate in and benefit from development initiatives.”

With a focus on local ownership and adaptive management, the program is designed to foster long-term sustainability and ensure that development initiatives are aligned with the specific needs and priorities of the communities they serve.

The signing of the Finance Agreement between DFAT and MORDI TT today marks a key milestone in a broader, multi-faceted partnership aimed at building a more resilient and prosperous Tonga.