27th June 2016 Pacific Island government representatives at the inaugural Pacific Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Summit have expressed their support for a proposal to create a Pacific funding mechanism to better balance response funding with the mammoth burden of NCDs in the region.

In this regard, the Pacific Heads of government and health leaders at the meeting have agreed to explore options to establish greater synergies between funding sources.

A commitment was also made to the introduction of national legislation to ensure all Pacific countries meet or exceed the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control taxation target and help achieve a Tobacco Free Pacific by 2025.

These are some of 17 key statements addressed in the adopted outcomes document of the high-level meeting in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, which will be presented for consideration at the Pacific Ministers of Health meeting in Cook Islands next year.

“Whatever we decide to do in terms of addressing NCDs, funding is a very crucial factor,” Cook Islands Minister of Health, Justice and Parliamentary Services, Hon. Nandi Glassie said.

“Taxation on tobacco and alcohol for example is one area, and in fact it is being seen as a positive move so that each country can develop their own form of funding, but from the outset, this is not enough. So we are looking for more assistance from our key development partners,” Hon. Glassie added.

The Government of Tonga and the Pacific Community (SPC) are hosting the three-day Summit with support from the Australian Government, New Zealand Aid Programme, Government of the United States, World Bank, World Diabetes Foundation (WDF), World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

In attendance are over 120 high-level delegates representing Pacific Island governments and international development partners, including ministers of health from some 14 Pacific countries.

Common themes expressed throughout the high-level discussions, and reflected in the outcomes statement, were the importance of strong leadership, government stability, multi-sectoral collaboration and use of existing traditional governance structures to sustain efforts to reduce NCDs.

“I commend Pacific leaders for being at the forefront of the NCD agenda.  We now need to ensure that we take the necessary steps to urgently and strongly combat NCDs because we all agree that our current efforts are not enough. This Summit has enabled Pacific Islands countries and territories to share ideas, experiences, prioritise response efforts and further develop opportunities for regional collaboration to overcome this crisis,” the Pacific Community Director-General, Dr Colin Tukuitonga said.

“The Pacific NCD Summit concluded with strong recommendations to take on the social determinants of non-communicable diseases and the main risk factors for these diseases such as tobacco, consumption of high-fat, salty and high sugared food, lack of exercise and alcohol abuse,” commented Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health with the US Department of Health and Human Services, Dr Thomas E. Novotny.

The Pacific NCD Summit concluded with an entire programme dedicated to shining a spotlight on diabetes in the Pacific.

NCDs – mainly heart disease, cancers, lung disease and diabetes – account for up to 75% of recorded deaths in the Pacific.

In 2015, eight of the top ten countries and territories identified as having the highest diabetes prevalence in the world were from the Pacific.

The International Diabetes Federation estimates that economic burden of diabetes alone in Australia amounts to AUS$14.6 billion each year with figures expected to reach AUS$30 billion by 2025.

Participants at the Summit acknowledged the challenge of tackling NCDs is far from over and effective results can only be achieved with the commitment of all sectors of society, including the media, working together.

“The media needs to ask itself how responsible it is being in holding legislators responsible in the fight against NCDs but also how responsible have they been in helping to fight this fight,” Pacific Islands Business Publisher and veteran journalist, Netani Rika said.

“We need to tell the stories of who it affects; the mothers, the fathers, families left without breadwinners. These stories need to be told to wake people up. If we don’t do it, people won’t pay attention. The media shares the responsibility of building a healthier societies.”

END

More information about the Pacific NCD Summit can be found online:

English: www.spc.int/en/ncd-summit.html

French: www.spc.int/fr/ncd-summit.html

Hashtag: #PacificNCDSummit

Media contacts:

Andrew Toimoana   Director of Information, Tonga – atoimoana@mic.gov.to +676 772 9000

Lauren Robinson SPC Media Relations – laurenr@spc.int

Gwendolyn Carleton   World Diabetes Foundation Communications & Media Coordinator – gwc@worlddiabetesfoundation.org

Emily Moli   UNDP Communications Analyst – emily.moli@undp.org

Tom Perry   World Bank Pacific Communications Team Leader – tperry@worldbank.org

Saula Volavola WHO Pacific – volavolar@who.int

Shivanjani Naidu, Regional Media Affairs Specialist, U.S. Embassy Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Tonga and Tuvalu – naiduSM@state.gov or  +679 331 4466

(Francaise) Solene Bertrand, NCD Officer, SPC – soleneb@spc.int or (Tonga mob) +676 77 72 148

27th June 2016 On Wednesday, 22 June 2016, the Government of Japan and the people of Niuatoputapu celebrated the commissioning of the Upgraded Water Supply System for the villages of Hihifo, Vaipoa and Falehau of Niuatoputapu, funded through the Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects, GGP.

His Excellency Mr. Yukio Numata, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Kingdom of Tonga, along with Hon. Fe’aomoeata Vakata, Minister for Internal Affairs and the People’s Representatives for the Niua Islands, attended the commissioning ceremony held in Hihifo village, and was greeted with great enthusiasm by the people of the three villages.

His Excellency Mr. Numata congratulated the completion of the Project and reiterated in his keynote address that Japan’s GGP Projects are implemented to have the maximum effects in solving various challenges local communities face. Noting that it has been 15 years since the last GGP Project was conducted on the island, the Ambassador stated that “I am happy that the Japanese Embassy was able to assist the people of this beautiful island once again by providing clean and safe water, a vital element for human life.”

Hon. Fe’aomoeata Vakata, on behalf of the people of Niuatoputapu thanked the people and Government of Japan for the generous assistance. “Thank you for the kind support and the valuable assistance in building all of the water supply system for all of Niuatoputapu.” said Hon. Vakata.  These projects for Niuatoputapu were first sought for in 2013 by the Village Water Committees of Hihifo, Vaipoa and Falehau in order to reconstruct their communities gravely damaged by the Tsunami caused by the 2009 Samoa Earthquake.

Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects was introduced in 1989. Ten GGP projects have now being implemented in Niuatoputapu, since the first project on the island in 1999. Japans assistance epitomize commitment to support efforts by the People and the Government of Tonga to ensure Human Security, and also hope to strengthen the warm and close relations between the people and the Government of Japan and the people of the Kingdom of Tonga.

END.

Attachment: Project Factsheet

Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects (GGP)

Project Fact Sheet

END

Issued by the: Embassy of Japan, Tonga

 “Beautiful Tonga”

___________________________________________________________________________________ _ ______________________________________________________________________

27^th June – 2^nd July                           Miss Heilala Contestants Orientation Week

Monday, 27^th June                            

10:00am-11:00am                            Miss Heilala Stage Rehearsal

Tuesday, 28^th June                          

10:00am – 11:00am                         Miss Heilala Stage Rehearsal

12:30pm                                               Lunch for Contestants

8:00pm – 11: 00pm                          Tonga’s Got Talent Day

Venue: Digicel Square  

Wednesday, 29th June

10:00am-11:00am                            Miss Heilala Stage Rehearsal

7:00pm – 11: 00pm                          Cultural Event – Miss Junior/ Pre-teen/Teen Tau’olunga Competitions

Venue: Queen Salote Memorial Hall

Thursday, 30th June                        

10:00am -1100am                             Miss Heilala Stage Rehearsal

7:00pm – 11: 00pm                          Multi-Cultural Night

Venue: Queen Salote Memorial Hall

Friday, 01^st July

10:00-1100am                                    Miss Heilala Orientation and Photo Shoot

7:00pm                                                 Block Party

Venue: Taufa’ahau Road, Downtown Nuku’alofa

Local and International Food Stalls, live music, live entertainment, live radio broadcast, family programmes- face painting for the kids, kids dance competitions

Saturday, 2^nd July                          

10:00am                                               Island Hopping-Heilala Contestants breaking the ice!

Pangaimotu – Makaha’a – Fafa Island (Luncheon and return)

7:00pm                                                  Welcome Reception

Venue: Loumaile (tbc)

Cocktail reception, welcoming the contestants for Miss Heilala Festival, including representatives from NZ, Australia, USA, and outer islands

Sunday, 3^rd July                                 Miss Heilala Contestant’s attend Church Service

10:00am                                                Venue: Free Wesleyan Church Centenary Church (All Contestants)

7:00pm                                                 Churches and Youth Choir

Venue: Queen Salote Memorial Hall

Monday, 4^th July                              PUBLIC HOLIDAY- OFFICIAL BIRTHDAY OF HIS MAJESTY KING TUPOU VI

Morning                                               Finals and Awards for Tonga Tennis Open Tournament

                                                                Venue: ‘Atele Tennis Facilities, Ha’ateiho

10:00am                                               Miss Heilala Pre-Pageant Interview, 1^st Judging Event

                                                                Venue: Davina House

12:30pm – 1:30pm                           Lunch for Miss Heilala Contestants

7:00pm – 11:00pm                           Singing Competition (Solo, Duet, Groups) & Floorshow Competitions (Tau’olunga Tokolahi & Mako)

                                                                Venue: Queen Salote Memorial Hall

Tuesday, 5^th July                               

10:00am-1100am                              Miss Heilala Stage Rehearsal

7:00pm – 11:00pm                           Miss Heilala Tau’olunga Competition, 2^nd Judging Event

Venue: Queen Salote Memorial Hall

Wednesday, 6^th July 

10:00am-1100am                              Miss Heilala Stage Rehearsal

7:00pm – 11:00pm                           Hiva Kalala Fakatonga- Kalapu KavaTonga

Venue: Queen Salote Memorial Hall

Thursday, 7^th July 

10:00am                                               Miss Heilala Charity Visits – Ofa, Tui mo e ‘Amanaki (OTA) and Children Ward

                                                                Venue: OTA Office, Pea & Vaiola Hospital, Tofoa

7:00pm                                                 Miss Heilala Final Judging Event- South Pacific Evening (Island Creation, Talent & Sarong – 3^rd, 4^th & 5^th Judging Events)

Venue: Queen Salote Memorial Hall

Friday, 8^th July 

7:00pm                                                 Crowing of Miss Heilala 2016/2017 & Special Awards (Miss Heilala Ball)

Venue: Queen Salote Memorial Hall

Saturday, 9^th July                            

10:00am                                               Miss Heilala & Community Parade                                                         

Venue: Options: (Teufaiva Outdoor Stadium to Faua Wharf)

Note: Other events

Tā Vale Volleyball Tournament ’o e Heilala 2016/2017- 4^th June – 23^th July

150^th Anniversary Tupou College Singing Competition- 14^th June

150^th Anniversary Tupou College – 18^th – 24^th June

Free Wesleyan Church Annual Conference, Nuku’alofa – 19^th -27^th June

Tonga Tennis Open Tournament in Celebration Heilala 29^th June – 2^nd & 4^th July

Tetau Lava (Netball Tournament), Tailulu College, Last week of July to 1^st week of August

CONTACTS

28th June 2016 In support of the “Tuku ifi Leva” campaign, a series of TV shows and radio talkbacks are scheduled this week on the following days and time:

Tuesday 28th June 2016, 8pm, on D.B.N.

Join Dr.Ofa Sanft Tukia from the  NCD-Health promotion Unit of the Ministry of Health, James Lutui, Senior Crown Counsel, from the Attorney General’s office, and CEO of TongaHealth Mrs. Seini Filiai for a 30 minute TV show.

Wednesday 29th June 2016, 12:30pm, on 89.5/87.5 FM

Ask and get empowered with Dr.Ofa Sanft Tukia, Fusi Kaho who is a QUIT champion and quit smoking after over 25 years and Monica Tu’ipulotu from TongaHealth for a one hour radio talkback.

Thursday 30th June 2016, 7:30pm, on TV Tonga1 and 8pm on D.B.N.

Join Dr.Ofa Sanft Tukia, James Lutui and CEO of TongaHealth Mrs. Seini Filiai once again for a 30 minute TV show

Friday 1^st July 2016, 1:30pm, on A3Z

Ask and get empowered with Dr.Ofa Sanft Tukia, Fusi Kaho and Monica Tu’ipulotu from TongaHealth for a one hour radio talkback.

The campaign “Tuku ifi Leva” (Quit Smoking Now) is a national health promotion campaign highlighting the dangers of Tobacco use and second-hand smoke. This campaign is an initiative of the Ministry of Health, supported and funded by the Government of Tonga, Government of Australia, World Health Organization and TongaHealth. TongaHealth is also funding and coordinating the Monitoring and Evaluation for this campaign. This funding is part of the five year, A$2.1 million dollar (T$3.2 million) agreement, between TongaHealth and the Government of Australia to support the implementation of Tonga’s National NCD Strategy 2015 – 2020.

END

Issued by the: Tonga Health

28 Sune 2016 ‘I he poupou ko eni ki he polokalama “Tuku ifi Leva”, kuo fakapolokalama’i ha ngaahi polokalama hokohoko ‘i he televisone mo ha polokalama felafoaki ‘i he letio ki he uike ni ‘i he ngaahi ‘aho mo e taimi ko eni:

Tusite 28 Sune 2016, 8 efiafi, ‘I he DBN

Kau mai pea mo Dr ‘Ofa Sanft Tukia mei he va’a ki hono faka’ai’ai e mo’ui lelei mei he Potungaue Mo’ui, Semisi Lutui mei he ‘Ofisi ‘Ateni Seniale pea mo Seini Filiai koe CEO ‘a e Tonga Mo’ui Lelei ki he polokalama TV miniti ‘e 30

Pulelulu 29 Sune 2016, 12.30 ho’ata I he 89.5/87.5 FM

Eke ha ngaahi fehu’i pea faka’ataa mai ke fai hano fakaivia koe ‘i he ‘etau polokalama felafoaki houa ‘e taha mo Dr. Ofa Tukia, Fusi Kaho ‘a ia ko e tokotaha eni kuo ne lava ‘o tuku-ifi hili ia ha ta’u ‘e 25 ‘ene ma’u-tapaka, pea mo Monika Tu’ipulotu mei he Tonga Mo’ui-Lelei

Tu’apulelulu 30 Sune 2016, 7.30 efiafi, ‘I he TV Tonga 1 pea mo e 8 efiafi ai pe ‘I he DBN

To e kau mai pea mo Dr ‘Ofa Sanft Tukia, Semisi Lutui pea moe Pule lahi e Tonga Mo’ui Lelei, Seini Filiai ki ha to e polokalama TV miniti ‘e 30

Falaite 1 Siulai 2016, 1.30 efiafi ‘I he A3Z

Fakafehu’I mo fakataukei’I koe pea meia Dr ‘Ofa Tukia, Fusi Kaho pea mo Monica Tu’ipulotu mei he Tonga Mo’ui Lelei ‘I ha fepotalanoa’aki houa taha ‘I he Letio.

‘Eke ha ngaahi fehu’i pea faka’ataa mai ke fai hano fakaivia koe ‘i he ‘etau polokalama felafoaki houa ‘e taha mo Dr. Ofa Tukia, Fusi Kaho  pea mo Monika Tu’ipulotu mei he Tonga Mo’ui-Lelei

Ko e polokalama “Tuku ifi Leva” ko ha polokalama fakafakafonua ia ‘oku ne hulu’i ai e ngaahi fakatu’utaamaki ‘o hono ma’u pe ngaue’aki e tapaka pea mo ‘ene uesia kiate kinautolu ‘oku ikai ken au ma’u-tapaka. Ko e polokalama ni foki ko e langa ngaue ‘a e Potungaue Mo’ui, pea poupou’I mo fakapa’anga ‘e he pule’anga Tonga, pule’anga ‘Aositeleelia, Kautaha Mo’ui ‘a Mamani, pea mo e Tonga-Mo’ui-Lelei. ‘Oku toe fakapa’anga mo fokotu’utu’u foki ‘e he Tonga-Mo’ui-Lelei ‘a e polokalama ki hono muimui’i mo sivisivi’i ‘a e ola ‘o e polokalama ni. Ko e fakapa’anga ko eni ko e konga pe ia e polokalama tokoni fe’unga mo e A$2.1 miliona (T$3.2 miliona) na’e felotoi ki ai e Tonga-Mo’ui-Lelei pea mo e pule’anga ‘Aositeleelia ke poupou’I ‘o hono ngaue’I ‘a Palani Fakafonua ki hono ta’ota’ofi ‘o e ngaahi Fokoutua ‘ikai ke Mafola ‘I ha fa’ahinga ‘uhinga pe ‘ikai pipihi.

Tonga Mo’ui lelei! Mo’ui Lelei, Mo’ui Fiefia!

29th June, 2016 Embassy of Japan in collaboration with Japan Foundation presents to the Kingdom of Tonga Wadaiko Rindo drummer group, of professional taiko drummers and shamisen players to perform during the Heilala Festival 2016 Multi-Cultural Night and Block Party, in Nuku‘alofa.

Leading Wadaiko Rindo four day tour, is Mr. Toshinori Sakamoto who formed the group in 1996 in Melbourne, Australia. Sakamoto first visited Nuku’alofa in 2010 and performed in schools and to the public. This year’s tour is joined by Mr. Daisuke Kawakami, an integral member of the group who can play various
styles of taiko drumming from O-daiko (big drum), Shime-daiko (small drum) to Katsugi-okedo (hanging drum) and Ms. Yukiko Shoya a professional drummer and shamisen player who have performed at a number of music festivals and cultural events for over 10 years.

Wadaiko Rindo received the Music Award at Melbourne Fringe Festival in 2004 and performed in festivals around Australia including the Melbourne International Festival, and also has performed in Fiji, New Caledonia, China and Tonga.

Local drummers of the Kingdom and cultural related groups are invited to view Wadaiko Rindo drummers’ performance on Thursday, 30 June 2016 during the Heilala Fesitival Multi-Cultural Night at the Queen Salote Memorial Hall, and also from 8:30 on Friday, 1 July at the Digicel Square, in conjunction with the Block Party event.

Embassy of Japan acknowledged the joined effort from Japan Foundation, Tonga’s Ministry of Tourism and the Heilala Festival Committee 2016 to enhance understanding of the people of the Kingdom of Tonga into Japan’s culture, through music.

ENDS

Issued from the Embassy of of Japan, Tonga
For further enquires please contact: Ms. Yoko. Tochihara Administration Officer, Embassy of Japan in Tonga. Level 5, National Reserve Bank of Tonga Building / Telephone: 22-221 / Fax 27-025

30th June, 2016 The Tonga Development Bank continues to fund vocational and tertiary oriented scholarships in 2016, making it the 14th consecutive year.

The 12 schools that benefit from these study awards through the Bank’s Scholarship programme are: Tupou College, Montfort Technical Institute, ‘Ahopanilolo Technical Institute, Queen Salote College, St Joseph’s Business College, Tonga Institute of Higher Education covering the School of Tourism and Hospitality as well as the School of Agriculture, Tupou Tertiary Institute, Tonga Institute of Science and Technology, Hango Agricultural College in ‘Eua and the Pouono Campus at Mailefihi/Siu’ilikutapu College in Vava’u.

Approximately 56 scholarships will be awarded this year. TDB invests more than
$30,000 on Scholarships each year.

The scholarship programme is well received by the community, the vocational andtertiary schools since 2003 and has assisted more than 400 students with their studies. Total funding provided by TDB is more than $200,000 to date. The awards cover tuition only.

The Scholarships are awarded on the basis of need and the potential to succeed. The principals select the scholars on the basis of ability and financial needs and then give details with recommendations to the Bank for awards and funding. This arrangement has worked very well.

A system was developed with educational institutions whereby the Bank monitored the progress of the sponsored students on a 6 monthly basis has also worked very well.

Meanwhile, recipients of Tupou College and Montfort Technical Institute has received their awards and the other schools will received theirs later on this year.

The Tonga Development Bank has continued this scholarship programme since 2003, to commemorate the Bank’s 25 years of operation in Tonga, in 2002.

ENDS

Issued from Tonga Development Bank, Telephone: (676) 23-333, Fax No: (676) 23775, Email: tdevbank@tdb.to, Website: www.tdb.to

30th June 2016 The Executive Director of the World Bank Group Board’s Mr. Rionald Silaban was in Tonga early this week for an official visit.

Mr Silaban’s visits aimed to understand more about the World Bank operations in Tonga and to gain better insight into the country’s development progress and achievements and prospects.

The visit also provided him with an opportunity to witness first-hand the challenges that Tonga faced and how the Bank can assist Tonga to realize its endeavours.

During his visit he met with the Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon. ‘Akilisi Pohiva and the Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Siaosi Sovaleni on a courtesy call to overview the existing and future collaborations for Tonga and the World Bank. Mr Silaban also met with the Minister of Finance and National Planning Hon. ‘Aisake Eke to discuss the Economic and Financial Performance of the Budget from the Bank. He also met with the Speaker of Parliament Lord Tu’ivakano on a courtesy visit.

Mr Silaban also met with the World Bank project teams in Tonga where they presented the progress of their projects and issues and the way forward at the Ministry of MEIDECC. The project teams included with Mr. ‘Inoke Vala and Dr. Tevita Tukunga from Tonga Energy Road Map (TERM) and Mr. Pauka Kava and Mr. Kisione Taufa from the Tonga Cyclone Ian Reconstruction and Climate Resilience Project.

Mr Silaban represents the Constituency of Brunei Darussalam, Fiji, Indonesia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Singapore, Tonga, Thailand and Vietnam. He is also a member of the World Bank’s Budget Committee and Human Resources Committee.

ENDS

Issued by the: Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications

1 Siulai 2016 Ko e ola hiliange hono fakama’opo’opo ‘a e fili ki he ‘Ofisa Fakavahefonua mo e ‘Ofisa Kolo na’e fakahoko ‘i he ‘aho Pulelulu, 29 Sune 2016.

Kuo hoko ai ha kau fefine ki he ngaahi lakanga ni pea na’e ‘i ai mo ha mahanga ‘a ia ‘oku fakaha mei he ‘Ofisi ‘o e Komisoni Fai Fili ‘oku fai ‘a e ngaue ke toe fokotu’utu’u ha taimi ke toe fai ai ha fili ma’ae ngaahi kolo ni ke fakapapau’i ‘a e ngaahi lakanga ni.

Ola ‘O e Fili ‘Ofisa Pule Fakavahe 2016

• Tongatapu

Kolomotu’a – Mataiasi Holani

Kolofo’ou – ‘Alotaisi Takau

Vaini – Viliami Sisifa

Tatakamotonga – Sione Taumoha’apai Taufa

Lapaha – Kelekolio Nivaleti Melekiola

Nukunuku – Sione Nuku Kata

Hihifo – Sione Manumanu

• VAVA’U

Neiafu – Ula Kaufusi

Pangaimotu – Tevita Manuofetoa

Hahake – Mapa Fuapau

Leimatu’a – Paea ‘i Vaiola Uasike

Hihifo – Taniela Tu’ihoua Lautaha

Motu – Ulaiasi Vaisima

• HA’APAI

‘Uiha – Siosaia Langi Tonga’onevai

Lotofoa – ‘Aisea Taumoe’anga

Lulunga – Kisi Taulani Fatai

Ha’ano – Viliami Hanga

‘Uiha – Saia Niumeitolu

‘Otumu’omu’a – Samuela Fanga Taufa

• ‘Eua & Ongo Niua

‘Eua Motu’a – Melenaite Sisifa Fili

‘Eua Fo’ou – Tuifio Finau

Niuatoputapu – ‘Aisea Tupou Ta’ofi

Niuafo’ou – Sione Fuimaono

Ola ‘o e Fili ‘Ofisa Kolo 2016

1. TONGATAPU:

Kolofo’ou

Kolofo’ou – Vaioloa Kavaliku

Ma’ufanga – Paea-‘i-Vaha Filimoehala

Popua – Tevita Fatai

Nukunukumotu – Samiuela Latu

Kolomotu’a

Kolomotu’a – Sio Tuiano

Haveluloto – Vika Kaufusi

Tofoa – ‘Usaia Fifita

Hofoa – ‘Aleki Kanongata’a

Puke – Malolo Tupou

Hihifo

Kolovai – Luisi Fifita

Te’ekiu – ‘Isime’eli Motu’apuaka

Masilamea – Lolomana’ia Mafile’o

Fahefa – Salesi Manu

Kala’au – Viliami Manu’atu

Ha’utu – Vaka Ngauamo

Fo’ui – Samuela Fotu

Ha’avakatolo – Tevita Ma’asi

‘Ahau – Sione Tautuiaki

Kanokupolu – Havilivili Peatau ‘Uta’atu

Ha’atafu – Tevita Piukana

‘Atata – Mosese Taunaholo

Lapaha

Lapaha – Saimone Tupou Toutai

Talasiu – Tevita Mavaetangi To’a

Hoi – Taniela Kuluka

Nukuleka – Sitiveni Fe’ao

Makaunga – Tevita Noa Poteki

Talafo’ou – ‘Epeli Kaufusi Finau

Manuka – Tevita Takitaki

Navutoka – Lolomana’ia Fanguna

Kolonga – Tai Langi

Afa – Toutou Pau’u Pani

Niutoua – Pauli Valeli

‘Eu’eiki – Simipata Muli

Nukunuku

Nukunuku – Moala ‘Aniseko

Matahau – Paulo Hans Muller

Fatai – Sione Manu Tamo’ua

Lakepa – Matangi Bloomfield

Vaotu’u – Sione Taulava

‘Utulau – Tauveli Taulango

Ha’alalo – ‘Atelea Kolosina

Ha’akame – Soane Patita Fisi’italia

Houma – Timote ‘Eteaki

Tatakamotonga

Tatakamotonga – Tevita Fakatou

Holonga – ‘Aloisio Finau

Pelehake – Lavakei’aho Tu’ipulotu

Haveluliku – Vili Mahe Lutua

Fatumu – Taniela Inukiha’angana

Ha’asini/ Hamula – ‘Efoti Grewe

Lavengatonga – Viliami Tautalanoa

Nakolo – Sione Talikimata’u

Fua’amotu – Telefoni Laume

Vaini

Vaini – ‘Inoke Fotu Teisi

Folaha – Lipieti Pahulu

Nukuhetulu – Sione Fakahau

Longoteme – Soane Taula

Pea – Siope Lolo Tu’I’onetoa

Tokomololo – Soane Patita Lolo

Ha’ateiho – Tomasi Vaingalo

Veitongo – ‘Otuhouma Nepote

Malapo – Edrnie Robin Filise

1. VAVA’U:

Neiafu

Neiafu – Vara Fifita

Falaleu – Simoneti Toko

Fungamisi – Nikola Sesau

Toula – Alavini ‘Akau’ola

Ofu – Alaiva’a Tangipa

Okoa – ‘Aleki Faletau

Olo’ua – ‘Asaeli Taufalele

Makave – Sosefo Niukapu

Utui – Siope Soakai

Leimatu’a

Leimatu’a – ‘Etimoni Vete

Holonga – Mausa Lilo

Feletoa – Kivalu Halahingano

Mataika – Losalo Fuavai

Hahake

Ha’alaufuli – Sefita Fa

Ha’akio – Na’asoni Lolohea

Houma – ‘Eukaliti Halaifonua

Mangia – Vaisingano Sisi

Ta’anea – Sione Niu Ma’u

Tu’anekivale – Viliami Kolotoni Fifita

Koloa – Meinaati Fifita

Holeva – Uele Moala 

Hihifo

Longomapu – ‘Ifalemi Palanite

Taoa – Kelepi Kiokata

Tefisi – Olafehi Fainu

Vaimalo – Heneli ‘Ale

Tu’anuku – ***

MOTU

Kapa – English ‘Asitomani

Falevai – Viliami Malolo

Otea – Kilisimasi Lousi

Lape – Uikelotu Taufa

Matamaka – Latu Taufa

Nuapapu – Sione Kolomaile

Ovaka – Milieni Vaisima

Taunga – Nafetalai Mahe

Hunga – Napa’a ‘Akau

Pangaimotu – Viliami Piukala

‘Utulei – Viliami Latu

Nga’unoho – Siaosi Te’epa’aua

‘Utungake – Semisi Seau

iii.            HA’APAI:

Lotofoa

Lotofoa – Viliami Tukutau

Fangale’ounga – Filimone Kalu

Fotua – ‘Alani Kavakiholeva/ Masiu Kafoa

Faleloa – Vaea Tangitau Ta’ufo’ou

Ha’afakahenga – Sione Palu

Ha’ateihosi’I – Potaufa Talakai

Ha’ano

Ha’ano – Lisala Langi

Fakakai – Afuhia Fehoko

Pukotala – Ueini Pousima

Muitoa – Saia Tu’ipulotu Langi

Mo’unga’one – Salesi Muli

Lifuka

Pangai – Viliami Pulotu

Hihifo – Paula Finau Kolo

Holopeka – ‘Inoke Fono

Koulo – Sitaleki Pahulu

Lulunga

Ha’afeva – Viliami Fifita

Tungua – Tevita Sikalu Pule / Felisiano Moli

Fotuha’a – Sione Fualalo

‘O’ua – Manase Tu’alau

Matuku – Kolitala’aho Fituafe

Kotu – Heamasi Koloa Vaiola

Tofua – Siesiasi Lavalu

Muomu’a

Nomuka – ‘Akimeta Tupou

Mango – Talite Kafoika

Fonoifua – Feleti Faha’ivalu

Uiha – Moala ‘Ofa

Felemea – Sione Masima

Lofanga – Molitoni Havili

1. ‘EUA:

‘Eua Fo’ou

Angaha – Lose Soane

Futu – Ma’ake Manukia

‘Esia – Seifi Taufa

Sapa’ata – Samiuela Vea

Fata’ulua – Talifolau Lolo

Mu’a – Simipeli Tuai

Tongamama’o – Lutolofi Tonga

Petani – Tevita Taulepa

Mata’aho – ‘Apai Lu’au

‘Eua Motu’a

‘Ohonua – Tukuange Takai

Tufuvai – Makale’ohiva Feleti

Pangai – Penisoni Vaea

Houma – Taniela Fatai

Ha’atu’a/ Kolomaile – Mosa’ati Ma’u

Ta’anga – ‘Enele Latu’ila

1. NIUAS:

Niuafo’ou

‘Esia – Petelo Folau

Kolofo’ou – Lusa Kava Pita

Sapa’ata – Taufato’aho Lama

Fata’ulua – Sevani Latu

Mata’aho – ‘Inoke Fangatua

Mu’a – Kalolo Male

Tongamama’o – Viliami Filiai

Petani – ‘Inoke Tuaimei’api

Niuatoputapu

Hihifo – Solo Mahe

Vaipoa – Heneli Similai

Falehau – Viliami Maea

Tafahi – Tou’angahevahafolau Faka’osi

NGATA’ANGA

Tukuatu mei he: Potungaue Fakamatala ‘Ea, Ma’u’anga Ivi, Ma’u’anga Fakamatala, Tokangaekina e Ngaahi Fakatamaki Fakaenatula, ‘Atakai, Feliuliuaki ‘a e ‘Ea pea mo e Fetu’utaki. Ki he ngaahi fakaikiiki kotoa ki he ngaahi ola kotoa pe, ‘a’ahi ki he www.tongaelections.com

1st July 2016 The Public Accounts Committee of the Legislative Assembly has decided to facilitate requests for only MPs from the outer islands to conduct parliamentary constituency visit.

That means their travel expenses including air fare and travel allowance will be financed from the Office of the Legislative Assembly’s vote.

The decision came after the Speaker of Parliament, Lord Tu’ivakano announced the cancellation of parliamentary visit program for this year.

Parliament is now adjourned until August 15. According to Lord Tu’ivakano this is to allow MPs to follow up on implementation of projects needed during their last parliamentary visit.

During the break, MPs will also attend a Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Presiding Officers and Clerks’ conference in Nuku’alofa from July 11-July 13, 2016.

Vava’u number two Noble Representative Lord Tu’ilakepa urged the Speaker to continue the annual program where legislators visit and dialogue with their electorates on their most urgent needs and report back to the House.

The Speaker reminded MPs of their duty and responsibility under the Westminster Abbey model to constantly meet with their electorates and report to the House. At the same time they can conduct their own constituency visit while Parliament is not sitting.

The Hon. Prime Minister ‘Akilisi Pohiva supported the Speaker’s motion and called on parliamentarians to honour his wish and carry out their own visitation program.

Normally the Office of the Legislative Assembly finances the travel expenses of MPs when undertakes parliamentary constituency visit.

Ha’apai 13 constituency MP, Veivosa Taka reminded Parliament, MPs in Tongatapu are so fortunate for they only drive to their respective destination.

For them in Ha’apai and Vava’u, travelling by boat is their only means of reaching their respective electorates. Taka said the job can be done, but only to Foa and Kauvai and not Lulunga and Otumu’omu’a constituencies.

During the break, MP Mateni Tapueluelu said he and Tongatapu 4 Village Council will finalise and prioritise the development projects needed to be implemented from the last constituency visit.

He also reassured Parliament with no constituency visit this year, it is saving a lot of the Legislative Assembly Office’s money. Both MPs and clerks are given travelling allowance while out in the field.

Tapueluelu is pretty confident, same list of urgent needs from last year will be provided by the electorates if the parliamentary visit goes ahead.

Parliament was announced to be reconvene on August 1st but Ha’apai number one Noble Representative, Lord Tu’iha’angana called for the adjournment of Parliament until August 15 to allow MPs to attend the 2016 Agricultural.

END

Issued by the: Legislative Assembly of Tonga

01st July 2016 Selling of bread in Tonga will be prohibited starting this Sunday, July 3, 2016.

The Minister of Police announced this in Parliament on Wednesday after the Legislative Assembly passed the national budget for 2016/17.

Hon. Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa said it has been about 30 years now that Tonga has breached its own Sabbath Law with bakeries and restaurants operating on Sunday.

Only restaurants in hotel and other accommodations are to operate on Sunday.

According to the Constitution, Sunday should be kept holy and no person shall practice his trade or profession or conduct any commercial undertaking.

Hon. Tu’i’onetoa said Tonga is a Christian country and Tupou I formally decreed Sunday to be kept holy and the prohibition of trading activities on Sabbath.

He said there is exception to trading on Sunday but only in times of natural disasters.

The public has been urged to kindly abide with the Sunday Law.

END

Issued by the: Legislative Assembly of Tonga

05th July 2016 May it please Your Majesty King Tupou VI, on behalf of the Government and the People of Tonga, throughout Your Majesty’s Realm and across the globe, to respectfully convey herein our heartfelt felicitations upon the accomplishment of the  momentous  milestone of Your Majesty’s birthday today Monday, 4^th July, 2016.

We applaud, with thanksgiving, Your Majesty’s vision, wisdom and intrinsic leadership legacy hitherto.

We unite in our wishes and prayer that the Lord Almighty will bless Your Majesty and the Royal House of Tupou with unceasing longevity, peace, prosperity, and security in accordance with the divine promise in  Matthew 18 verse 19:

“Again, I assure you that if two of you on earth agree about  anything you request, it will be done by my father in Heaven.”

 -ENDS-

Sincerely,

Press Office,

Prime Minister’s Office

Government of the Kingdom of Tonga

NUKU’ALOFA

Tel: +676 24644  Fax: +676 23 888  Email: pressoffice@pmo.gov.to

05th June 2016 The Electricity Commission has approved the new power tariff of 72.11 seniti/kWh or a 2.12 seniti increase per kWh effective for the power consumption from 1^st July 2016. The 2.12 seniti/kWh is an increase in the fuel tariff component for the price of electricity. This is due to the increase in the price of diesel which has gone up by 16 seniti since February 2016 as advised by the Competent Authority. 

The new published rate is an increase from the current 69.99 seniti/kWh which took effect in March 2016. This is directly related to the increase in the regulated price of diesel of 16.04 seniti per litre (or 18.4%) from 87.34 seniti per litre in February 2016 to $1.0338 per litre in June. This increase announced today will take effect on Friday, 1^st July 2016.

The new power tariff is still 18% lower than the power price of 87.79 seniti back in February 2015.

Our solar and wind renewable energy projects helped reduce our electricity tariff by 6 seniti/kWh. Without the operation of the solar and wind projects our electricity tariff would be much higher at 78.11 seniti/kWh instead of the 72.11 seniti/kWh today.

The Electricity tariff is regulated by the Electricity Act and administered by the Electricity Commission. The tariff adjustment is determined by a process set down in the Concession Agreement between Tonga Power Ltd and the Electricity Commission. The Competent Authority is the Tongan Government Agency which sets the landed price of diesel which Tonga Power Ltd uses for their power generation.

Thank you,

Tonga Power Ltd.

1^st July 2016

5th July 2016 The Local Government elections took place on Wednesday 29 June of which 18 women stood as candidates for District and Town Officer Positions. Since March during International Women’s Day, the Women’s Division of the Ministry of Internal Affairs together with key stakeholders of the civil society under the International Women’s Day National Planning Committee held various workshops, training and meeting sessions to encourage women to stand as candidates in their local districts. There were 11 women registered in Tongatapu alone, 9 for Town Officer position and 1 for District Officer position. From Vava’u, there were 5 women registered, 4 for Town Officer and 1 for District Officer. There was 1 woman who registered from Ha’apai for Town Officer and 1 from ‘Eua for District Officer postion.

The results released from Tonga Electoral Commission to the Women’s Division confirmed that 2 women have successfully been elected – the first ever female District Officer from ‘Eua (‘Eua Motu’a District) out of the 2 District Officers, Sisifa Fili and the first ever female Town Officer for Tongatapu from Havelu, Vika Kaufusi. In addition to this success – 4 other women placed second position, 1 for District Officer (Hihifo District, Vava’u) and 3 for Town Officer (Ha’alalo&Ha’atafu, Tongatapu and Matamaka, Vava’u). This significant achievement allows for these women to be deputized and in a position to be Acting District and Town Officers.

The Division looks forward to continuous efforts with the civil society and the successful candidates to assist and work towards the greater development of women in leadership positions but also in advocating good leadership and governance at local and national level.

If you have any further queries please contact the office at 27145 or email lake@mia.gov.to

–END

Issued by the: Ministry of Internal Affairs

5th June, 2016 The Miss Heilala contestants completed their first judging event which was the Pre-Pageant Interview yesterday at Loumaile Lodge.

The results of the first judging event were released by the judges in random orders. The top five contestants were Miss Bou’s Fashion, Miss Loumaile Lodge, Miss Five Star, Miss Tonga-China Friendship Association and Miss Lady Maria Tonga – Australia.

The topics that the contestants were interviewed on included tourism, culture, sport/health, environment and education.

Tonight the candidates will be judged for the Miss Heilala Tau’olunga event at Queen Salote Memorial Hall.

On Thursday night, the contestants will be assessed on three events which includes the Island Creation, Talent and the Sarong wear.

The crowning of the new Miss Heilala will take place on Friday night this week followed by the Miss Heilala and Community Parade on Saturday to end the Heilala Festival 2016.

The contestants are;

1. Miss Appraxus NZ – Ms. ‘Ana Fakamalunga Siu-Lata-‘i-Fele’unga Falala
2. Miss Bou’s Fashion – Ms. Vika Tu’i’onetoa Toetu’u
3. Miss Lady Maria Tonga-Australia – Ms. Soana Faiva
4. Miss Loumaile Lodge – Ms. Laura Melaia Rene Lauti
5. Miss Havelu Rugby – Ms. Polonia Paea ‘i Niu’ui Hoko
6. Miss Five Star Finances Co.Ltd – Ms. ‘Ofa Hui
7. Miss Tongatapu 2 – Ms. Sosefina Fataimoemanu Leger
8. Miss Tourism Tonga – Ms. Michelle Motuliki
9. Miss Tonga China Friendship Association – Ms. Salote Tatakiama Veikune
10. Miss Tonga National Rugby League – Ms. Salome Va’enuku

ENDS

Issued from the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications

6th July, 2016 Police are now in a position to release the names of the three people who died following a fatal crash on Hihifo Road, ‘Ahau, on Saturday 3 July 2016.

They are:

Scott ‘Ungo’unga aged 29 years old from Kanokupolu, who was the driver.
Kalolaine Quick aged 43 years old from Kanokupolu
Lower Leaving Ma’u aged 23 years old from Haveluloto

The fourth passenger Vai ‘Ungo’unga from Kanokupolu received critical injuries and is currently at Vaiola Hospital.

Nukunuku Police District Commander Chief Inspector Sofilisi Fifita says the vehicle, which the four were travelling in, was driving west on Taufa’ahau Road when it swerved and hit a large ‘toa’ tree on the left side of the road.

The group was travelling home from Nuku’alofa.

Police have confirmed that alcohol and speeding were contributing factors to the crash.

“We extend our sympathy to the families of those involved and our thoughts are with their loved ones at this tragic time,” says Commissioner of Police Stephen Caldwell.

“Crashes like this are preventable and we all need to do our part to reduce deaths and injuries on our roads.”

ENDS

Issued by the: Tonga Police Media & Communication Officer, Tonga Police Headquarters, Longolongo, (676) 23 318, (676) 23 323 Fax: (676) 23 036; for media enquiries – Email: siaadams@police.gov.to or siaadams@gmail.com

6th July, 2016 The body of Mailangi Vea, 45, of Fungamisi Vava’u who died at sea at the Island of Late on Saturday 2nd July 2016 has been recovered by Police.

The Search and Recovery team headed by police at Vava’u and Ha’apai recovered the body of Mr. Mailangi Vea at approximately 3:00 pm Sunday 3rd July 2016 on the shores North West of Late.

An inquest held on Monday 4th July determined that Mr. Vea died from drowning.

Vava’u Police District Commander, Superintendent Netane Falakiseni wishes to acknowledge the assistance of: Digicel Tonga and its helicopter crew, Yachts “Tricker”, “Tavake” and “Phoenix” which assisted in the rescue and towing back of Mr Vea’s boat to Neiafu on Saturday night saving 11 lives, Beluga Diving with the use of its boat “Gladiator” in the search on Sunday 3rd July, Five local divers at Neiafu that assisted with the search and recovery on Sunday 3rd July, Vava’u Radio Communications, Airport Tower and Coastal Radio for relaying radio communications with the helicopter, and Members of the Neiafu community for their support.

Tonga Police would like to extend their condolences and sympathy to the family of Mr. Mailangi Vea.

ENDS

Issued by the: Tonga Police Media & Communication Officer, Tonga Police Headquarters, Longolongo, (676) 23 318, (676) 23 323 Fax: (676) 23 036; for media enquiries – Email: siaadams@police.gov.to or siaadams@gmail.com

7th July 2016 At the recently concluded Pacific Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Summit one of the major points of discussion was a proposal to create a Pacific funding mechanism to better balance response funding with the mammoth burden of NCDs in the region.

The Pacific Heads of government and health leaders at the meeting mutually consented to explore options to establish greater synergies between funding sources and share best practises prevailing in the Pacific.
There were over a 120 high-level delegates representing Pacific Island governments and international development partners.

Join Dr. Paula Vivili, Director, Public Health, S.P.C. in conversation with Monica Tu’ipulotu, Programs Division, TongaHealth, as he summarizes the highlights of this summit, and also talks about the way forward…

Tonight, Thursday the 7th of July 2016
7:30pm On TV Tonga 1
Tonga Mo’ui lelei! Mo’ui Lelei, Mo’ui Fiefia!

Issued by Tonga Health

07th July 2016 The Defense Forces of Tonga, New Zealand, USA, France, China and one personnel from Britain are currently in Ha’apai conducting a humanitarian exercise. The exercise focuses on disaster relief operations in the Pacific led by the NZ Defense Force known as the Tropic Twilight 16.

Commander Brisbane Lokotui from His Majesty Armed Forces says defense forces contributed in providing aid after Cyclone Ian and they are now back to contribute to the island’s development.

“We are practicing together to respond effectively to natural disasters and other emergencies. They chose to return to Ha’apai and reconstruct some of the things that needs to be constructed. That includes building a new public toilet block and restoring water tanks at the Taufa’ahau Wharf at Pangai followed restoring water tanks for Faleloa, Lotofoa and the Department of Fire Service at Pangai.”

Commander Lokotui says the crew consists of a medical team and construction engineers.

“The medic team will also conduct a dental clinic, advices and mentoring for the public by talking about the effects of Non-Communicable Diseases.”

According to Commander Lokotui if the team will complete their mission within their designated time, they team will help with the construction of other buildings before leaving to Tongatapu on July 24^th.

Lieutenant Colonel Josh Wineera of the NZ Defense Force is the leader of Tropic Twilight 16 and about 70 defense personnel makes up the team.

ENDS

Issued from the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications

07 Siulai 2016 ‘Oku ngaue fakataha ‘a e kau taumalu’i fonua ‘a Tonga, Nu’usila, ‘Amelika, Falanisē, Siaina mo e tokotaha mei Pilitānia ki ha tokoni ki he Vahefonua Ha’apai ko e taha ‘o e polokalama tokoni ‘a e Taumalu’i Fonua ‘a Nu’usila ki ha hoko ha fakatamaki ki he ngaahi fonua ‘o e Pasifikí ‘oku ‘iloa ko e Tropic Twilight 16.

‘I ha fakamatala me ia Komanitā Brisbane Lokotui mei he Kau Tau ‘a ‘Ene ‘Afió fekau’aki mo e polokalamá ni mei Ha’apaí na’á ne pehē na’e kau mai ‘a e kau Taumalu’i Fonua ko ení ‘i he polokalama tokoni ko ia ‘i he fakatamaki ‘a Saikolone Ian pea ko ‘enau foki mai eni ke nau toe kau ki he ngaahi langa fakalakalaka ‘o e motú.

“’Oku mau ngāue fakataha mo e kau taukei ko ení ke mau toe mateuteu ange ki ha hoko ha fakatamaki fakaenatula pea mo ha toe fakatamaki pē. Ko e foki mai eni ‘a kinautolú ni ke langa ha public toilet block mo ha tānaki’anga vai ‘i he Uafu Taufa’ahau ‘i Pangaí, pea mo ha ngaahi tānaki’anga vai ki Faleloa, Lotofoa pea mo e Potungāue Tāmate Afi ‘i Pangaí.”

Na’e pehē ‘e Cdr. Lokotui ‘oku kau foki ki he timí ni mo ha kau ngāue fakafalemahaki mo ha kau taukei ‘i he tufungá.

“’A ia ‘e fakahoko ‘e he kau ngāue fakafalemahakí ha ngaahi talatalaifale pea mo ha tokanga makehe ki he ngaahi fokoutua ‘oku ‘ikai ke pipihí ke lau’ilo ki ai ‘a e kakai ‘o e fonuá.”

‘I he fakamatala aipē ‘a Cdr. Lokotuí na’á ne pehē ai kapau ‘e malava ke vave mo ‘osi ‘enau ngāue ki he ngaahi me’á ni ‘i he taimi ko ia te nau fakahoko fatongia ai ‘i Ha’apaí pea te nau toe fakahoko mo ha ngaahi tokoni tatau ki ha ngaahi feitu’u kehe kimu’a pea nau foki mai ki Tongá ni ‘i he ‘aho 24 ‘o e māhiná ni aipē.

‘Oku tataki ‘a e Tropic Twilight 16 ‘e Lieutenant Colonel Josh Wineera mei he Taumalu’i Fonua ‘a Nu’usilá pea ‘oku fakafuofua ki he toko 70 kotoa ‘a e kau ngāue ki he polokalamá ni.

Ngata’anga

Tukuatu mei he: Potungaue Fakamatala ‘Ea, Ma’u’anga Ivi, Ma’u’anga Fakamatala, Tokangaekina e Fakatamaki Fakanatula, ‘Atakai, Feliuliuaki ‘a e ‘Ea mo e Fetu’utaki