Better Business Governance was the theme of a short training program and mentoring for company directors in Tonga this month.

Australian Business Volunteers, Robin Bishop and Graham Markey visited Nuku'alofa to take a four-day workshop and to offer mentoring to companies and organisations from February 7-19.

At the completion of the workshop the General Manager of the Tonga Development Bank, 'Afualo Matoto, told participants that the training would help to improve governance in Tonga. "Whether it is in the Private Sector, NGOs or Government, all of us can benefit from Good Governance," he said.

Barbara Tu'ipulotu, the ABV Representative in Tonga, said the aim of the program was to provide directors and senior management of private companies, members of government and NGO boards with an understanding of their legal liabilities and responsibilities, and to help them increase their knowledge of strategic planning and financial management.

Directors and managers who took part came from a variety of organisations including the Tonga Broadcasting Corporation, Tonga Communications Commission, Tonga Print, Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (VV), Ministry of Finance Public Enterprise Division, Tonga Amateur Sports Association, Tonga Red Cross, Tonga Rugby Union, Cowley Bakery, Rainbow Bakery, O. G. Sanft & Sons Ltd., Oregon Pacific International,and Vava'u Press Ltd.

In closing the workshop on February 10, the Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, Mr Colin Hill, said that the training was supported by the Australian Government, AusAid and the ABV. "I am very confident that the course will make a difference as it already has in many countries in Asia and the Pacific," he said.

On February 16 Robin and Graham ran a special presentation for the senior management of the National Reserve Bank of Tonga, and Barbara said that Robin would stay in Tonga for another week offering mentoring where needed.