The Japanese Ambassador HE Dr. Kazuchika Hamuro and Princess ‘Ofeina Fakafanua

Tonga's Mango Tree Centre for the disabled celebrated the handover of a new building gifted by the Government of Japan on 10 December.

Princess ‘Ofeina Fakafanua and the Japanese Ambassador to Tonga HE Dr. Kazuchika Hamuro unveiled a plaque at the rehabilitation centre that was constructed with $199,000 pa’anga under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP).

Dr. Hamuro said Japan recognized and commended the work of the centre in its humanitarian efforts towards the welfare of the Tongan people, especially people with disabilities and was pleased to provide the centre with assistance in its efforts to address the difficulties faced regarding their limited facilities.

"Japan recognizes that strong inclusive communities is one of the key strategic objectives under Tonga’s Strategic Development Framework. Japan is fortunate that the Tongan Government has partnered with grassroots organizations to complement government’s efforts to promote improving institutional care and support for the vulnerable groups to achieve such a goal."

The event was attended by the Minister of Finance and National Planning Hon. Lisiate ‘Akolo and people with disabilities and their families.

Set up in Tonga in 1994, the centre is run by a Korean couple In-Kwon Kim and wife Jeong-Seok who provide rehabilitation to around 80 disabled people. It has over 10 teachers and staff and offers various courses in Braille for those with visual impairment, computer classes for disabled youths and adults and physiotherapy, among other services.