12th April, 2019 More than 50 participants and guests attended the official launching of the ‘Pacific Island Food Revolution’ yesterday evening at Davina House.
The Pacific Island Food Revolution in a film screening showcased the taste, history and nutrition of Pacific food. It brings food education into people’s homes, where families can be entertained and more importantly inspired to cook healthy and affordable meals.
Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, HE. Adrian Morrison said, “We are happy to have supported this fabulous television show highlight all that is healthy, tasty and nutritious in Pacific cooking. And while the show is indeed fabulous, as you will see shortly, it is only a medium – a very effective medium – for a very important message. That message is the importance of a healthy diet in the overall health of your population.”
“People need to be able to access health care when they need it. This year we are delighted to support a new cadre of family doctors working in community health centres. Bring health care to where people live.”
He stated that Australia and New Zealand are committed to make sports available to everyone in Tonga to help them get physically active.
Morrison also spoke of Australia and New Zealand assistance with the implementation of Tonga’s new taxation strategies to promote healthy eating by making fruits and vegetables more affordable.
“Tonga, Australia and New Zealand are working on many fronts to improve health outcomes for Tongans. Tonight, we are pleased to add another tool to our healthy lifestyle kit – a vibrant and exciting program using the power of TV, radio and social media to change people’s eating behaviour.”
He said that people need access to good health care, families need to be able to afford good food and know how to cook it and communities need the time and resources to support physical activity.
CEO for Health, Dr Siale ‘Akau’ola said that the initiative promotes the local economy which links with ecological balance and instil a source of pride.
“We are not promoting imported processed stuff that is associated with plastic waste which pollutes our oceans/harm our whales. PIFR today, encourages our people to grow local food, fish from our oceans, to cook fantastic recipes and to mix leisure, playing, and being entertained and learning.”
He also expressed his sincere gratitude to Mr. Robert Oliver and his team for the creative initiative to support health throughout Tonga.
Attending the launching program were Hon. Fatafehi Tuita-Filipe, New Zealand High Commissioner to Tonga, HE Tiffany Babington, government officials, representatives from private sectors and guests.
ENDS
Issued by the: Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change & Communications.