By Everest Hala

Tonga’s government ministries opened a four-week volleyball competition on Thursday, at Queen Salote Memorial Hall, aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and strengthening relationships between public service agencies

One of the day's standout games saw the men's Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) and the Ministry of Commerce, Consumer, Trade, Innovation and Labour (MCCTIL) in a closely contested match.

MCCTIL put up a strong challenge throughout the encounter, but MIA secured victory decided in a close score.

In the women's division, the Ministry of Education and Training (MET) won against Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in a friendly and spirited competition.

Another closely fought contest saw the men’s Ministry of Lands, Survey, Planning and Natural Resources (MLSPNR) overcome the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications (MEIDECC).

MEIDECC controlled the early play before MLSPNR rallied later to claim the win.

The 2026 volleyball competition included seven men's and seven women's teams from across government ministries.

Organized by the Tonga Volleyball Association in partnership with Fiefia Games, the competition seeks to encourage physical activity among public servants and fostering teamwork through sport.

The competition is expected to continue over the next three weeks.