A special welfare bus that accommodates disabled people on wheelchairs was given to Tonga Red Cross Society by the Government of Japan today.

A handover ceremony was held at the Tonga Red Cross head office in Nuku'alofa where the Japanese Ambassador to Tonga HE Yasuo Takase handed over the key of the new bus to Hon Alaileula Tuku'aho the Chairperson of the Tonga Red Cross Society Executive Board.

Funded under Japan's Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project GGP at a cost of TOP$140,185, the bus includes a lift that can safely transport disabled students.

The bus would also assist the transportation for the Alonga Centre at Pea and provide services around Tongatapu for handicapped people.

The Japanese Ambassador said with difficulties faced by the Tonga Red Cross Society in transportation around Tongatapu, the Government of Japan was very pleased to provide assistance to the society.

He said Japan recognised and commended the work of the Tonga Red Cross in its humanitarian efforts towards the welfare of the Tongan people, especially handicapped people.

"Therefore until now, Japan has been closely cooperating with the Tonga Red Cross to assist its mission by providing vehicles, refurbishment office facilities and dispatching volunteers," he said.

Sione Taumoefolau, the Secretary General of the Tonga Red Cross, thanked the Government of Japan for their generous donation. This is the Tonga Red Cross's first bus designed to accommodate the disabled with wheelchairs.