HE Mr Yasuo Takase with Lord Tu'i'afitu, Hon Lisiate 'Akolo, and contractors.

The Government of Japan has committed just over TOP$1 million pa'anga to fund community projects that include the upgrade of water supply systems in four villages in Tongatapu and the construction of new classrooms for Vava'u Side School.

The project is the first under Japan's Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects or GGP for 2012.

Japan's Ambassador to Tonga HE Mr Yasuo Takase signed the grant contracts with recipients of the five projects this morning, 20 September, in Nuku'alofa.

The grants t range up to $200,000 pa'anga for each project, to cover the upgrade of water supply systems for Fua'amotu, Longoteme, Matangiake and Mala'evakapuna and the construction of three classroom blocks and a toilet building for Vava'u Side School.

HE Mr Yasuo Takase said GGP aimed not only to promote the well-being of communities but deepened the relationship between the Embassy and local communities. 

"This is my last opportunity to sign the grant for GGP and I will not witness their completion. Please maintain and manage the facilities and equipment properly so they can last as long as our long-standing friendship," he said.

Mosese Naeata, the Chairperson of the Matangiake Village Water committee thanked Japan for their generous assistaince to their communities.

The Minister of Finance Hon Lisiate 'Akolo, Minister of Health Lord Tu'i'afitu and contractors who have been awarded the contract to carry out the work, were also present at the ceremony.