Live & Learn Tonga

17/06/2026

Live & Learn Tonga, through our Climate Resilient Islands (CRI) WASH Programme, recently completed a number of activities across communities in the island of Vavaʻu as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen community resilience, improve access to safe and reliable water, and promote sustainable water resource management.

These activities include:
- Basic Home Plumbing Training for Women in our 9 target communities.
- Installation of an 80-meter water meter box in Taʻanea
-Installation of 28 pressure pumps with sheds in Talihau
-Installation of water meters to support improved water management
- Handover of 9 toolbox to our 9 target communities

Once again, we extend our sincere appreciation to MFAT for their continuous support in funding this initiative, and to our partner communities, stakeholders, and supporters for their ongoing collaboration and commitment.

29/05/2026

On 27 May 2026, the target beneficiaries from the 9 communities of this project
gathered at Ma’ama Mo’onia Hall in Neiafu for a truly momentous occasion — the
Official Handover Programme of the Climate Resilient Island Project. This joyful
milestone marked the successful completion of a transformative initiative funded by
the Government of New Zealand through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
and proudly implemented by Live and Learn Tonga.
The hall was filled with excitement as distinguished guests joined the celebration:
The Guest of Honor, His Excellency Mr. Broody Sinclair, New Zealand High
Commissioner to Tonga; the Honourable Governor of Vava’u, Lord Fakatulolo; Dr.
Robin Havea Chairman of the Live and Learn Tonga Board; Ms. Edith Kamundi,
representing Live and Learn Australia; Mr. ‘Alani Afu, Country Manager for Live and
Learn Tonga; and representatives from the 9 communities — Koloa, Holeva,
Tu’anekivale, Ha’alaufuli, Pangaimotu, ‘Utulei, ‘Utungake, and Talihau.
The program opened with uplifting hymns lead by the Mailefihi and Siulikutapu
Brass Band, followed by a heartfelt prayer led by Mr. Samiuela Hala’ufia the Head
Tutor for the College.
The highlight of the day was the community exhibits, where guests were inspired by
the remarkable achievements in the food security, ecosystem restoration, disaster
risk reduction and WASH pathways in which the project had empowered the 9
communities. Beautiful handicrafts made from different varieties of pandanus, and
paper mulberry showcased how families have strengthened their livelihoods while
embracing sustainable futures.
The celebrations ended with the formal presentation of certificates to the 9
communities a proud symbol of their resilience and completion of these initiatives by
the Guest of Honor. Communities expressed their gratitude with the Honourable
Governor of Vava’u presenting gifts to the Guests of Honor and other important
guests solidifying their token of appreciation for all the assistance and support
provided over the lifetime of the project.
The formal remarks from the His Excellency Mr. Broody Sinclair, The New Zealand
High Commissioner to Tonga and the vote of thanks delivered by the Honourable
Governor of Vava’u Lord Fakatulolo echoed the spirit of the day: celebrating
accomplishments, honouring partnerships, and looking forward to even greater
collaborations in the future.
This was not just a handover ceremony — it was a celebration of empowerment,
resilience, completion of a project and a beginning of a new journey for these 9
communities in Vava’u.

18/05/2026

18/05/2026

Malo Team. Another successful Program for Live & Learn Tonga

17/05/2026

Ha’apai CRI Project Handover

Today, 15th of May 2026, marks a significant milestone as we officially hand over the Climate Resilient Islands Programme to the communities of Ha'apai after five years of partnership, learning, and collective action.

What began as a project has grown into a strong relationship built on trust, resilience, and a shared commitment to protecting the future of our islands. Over the past 5 years, communities have not only participated in the programme but have become leaders of change — strengthening their own capacities, sharing knowledge, and driving solutions that will continue long after the project’s completion.

Through the implementation of the Food Security and Ecosystem Restoration pathways, communities have created stronger and more sustainable environments for future generations. From restoring and protecting natural ecosystems to improving local food systems and resilience, these efforts reflect the power of community-led action in addressing the impacts of climate change.

This handover is not an ending, but a transition into the next chapter — one where communities continue to carry forward the knowledge, skills, and momentum built throughout the programme. The strength, dedication, and leadership demonstrated by the communities give great confidence that these achievements will continue to grow and thrive.

A big congratulations to these communities in Ha’apai for the accomplishments we’ve achieved together throughout this journey; Pangai, Fotua, Lotofoa, Ha’ano & Muitoa. Your hard work, resilience, and commitment have laid the foundation for a stronger and more sustainable future for generations to come.

We extend our sincere gratitude to our donor, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), for their invaluable support and commitment throughout this journey. We are also honored by the presence of the two MFAT representatives who attended the handover ceremony, reflecting the strong partnership and shared vision behind this programme.

We also acknowledge our government stakeholders, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Forests (MAFF) and the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications (MEIDECC), for their continuous collaboration and support in strengthening community resilience and sustainability efforts across the islands.

To every community member, partner, and supporter who has contributed to this journey — MĀLŌ ‘AUPITO! Your resilience and commitment continue to inspire hope for a more sustainable and climate-resilient future. 🌱🌊

13/05/2026

An important milestone as the Climate Resilience Island (CRI) Project is officially handed over to the communities of ʻEua.

This handover represents more than the completion of a project — it reflects strengthened community ownership, resilience, and a shared commitment to sustaining long-term community resilience for future generations.

Through collaboration, local leadership, and collective action, communities are now better equipped to strengthen food security and lead ecosystem restoration and management efforts in the face of climate challenges.

We acknowledge all partners, stakeholders, and community members whose dedication and commitment made this possible.

Together, we are building stronger, safer, and more resilient island communities.

17/04/2026

Another successful milestone has been launched in the community of Mataika under our build back safer program with Habitat for Humanity NZ funded by the Government of NZ through MFAT. The program continues to improve the living conditions of vulnerable homes in our targeted communities with the intention to promote shelter resilience at the grass root level.

Special thanks to our partner Habitat for Humanity NZ and our donor MFAT for the continuous support on this life changing initiative.

09/04/2026

We were honored to hold our first official meeting with Honourable Minister of MAFF, Viliami Sisifa, to provide an update on the current status of Live & Learn Tonga’s Food Security and Ecosystem Restoration Programs across Tongatapu, ‘Eua, Ha’apai, and Vava’u.

The meeting also focused on strengthening future partnerships between the Government of Tonga (MAFF) and key stakeholders, including Live & Learn Tonga, to ensure continued support and long-term impact for our communities.

As part of the engagement, a site visit was conducted at the Popua and Patangata Nursery, established in 2025. While there are also active nurseries in Sopu and ‘Eua, this visit specifically highlighted the progress and impact at Popua and Patangata. These nurseries play a vital role in strengthening communities food systems and supporting households economic livelihoods.

We look forward to building stronger collaboration and creating more resilient, sustainable communities across Tonga. 🌱🇹🇴

31/03/2026

🌿 **Resilience and Land Security: A Woman Leading Change in Kolomotu‘a**

From strengthening her household’s food security to inspiring others in her community, Ana Ika’s journey is a powerful example of what happens when women are supported with the right tools and opportunities.

Through the Joint Programme on Rural Women’s Economic Empowerment (JP RWEE), Ana gained access to training, resources, and support that helped her grow her skills, build confidence, and take on a leadership role within her community. Today, she is not only improving her family’s livelihood but also empowering others to take part in sustainable practices and community development.

Her story reflects the real impact of investing in women — creating stronger families, more resilient communities, and lasting change.

Check here for more detail: https://jprwee.org/news/resilience-and-land-security-woman-leader-empowering-her-community-kolomotua

📍 Kolomotu‘a, Tonga

13/03/2026

🌿 JP RWEE Monitoring Visit in Tongatapu

The annual monitoring of the UN-funded Joint Programme on Rural Women’s Economic Empowerment (JP RWEE) projects in Tongatapu was recently carried out by Live & Learn Tonga, under the supervision of an in-country mission led by Implementation Expert Mr. Sailosi Kepa (IFAD).

During the visit, the team travelled to several rural communities where they held focus group discussions with programme beneficiaries and stakeholders, including constituency officers. These discussions were followed by key informant interviews with individual recipients to better understand the programme’s progress and impact.

Beneficiaries shared inspiring stories about how the programme has helped transform their lives and communities. Impacts highlighted included:

✅ Improved family and community food security
✅ Ability to contribute to the church (lotu)
✅ Increased cashflow from vegetable sales
✅ Stronger community support, especially in caring for the elderly and disadvantaged

These outcomes demonstrate the meaningful difference the JP RWEE programme continues to make in empowering rural women and strengthening community resilience in Tonga. 🌱