My Tonga – News

Tonga for Tongans living overseas

This section of the website is specifically for Tongans living overseas and is designed to keep you up to date with news and other topics of interest that are happening back home.

By logging in to the site you can also contribute with views and personal stories that are of interest to all Tongans

Featured news


17 Jan 2011

Paying bills by mobile phone, a new service for Tonga

A NEW service that allows people in Tonga to transfer money and pay bills using their mobile phones was introduced by Digicel Tonga in January.

Digicel customers who register for the ‘Mobile Money’ service can top up a mobile account from which they can transfer or receive money between other mobile accounts.

Trials of the service were carried out in conjunction with the National Reserve Bank of Tonga.

Customers can deposit money to their ‘mobile wallet’ at all Digicel outlets in Tonga.

Paul Stafford, CEO Digicel Tonga, said, “When you consider the number of people who do not have access to basic financial services, Digicel mobile money will transform the way our customers receive, handle and transfer money as well as pay bills. We are very grateful to the Reserve Bank of Tonga, the Pacific Financial Inclusion programme and the GSMA for their support and assistance in the development of this project.”

Digicel launches a new ‘Mobile Money’ service in January



Governor of the Reserve Bank of Tonga, Joyce Mafi said, “The Reserve Bank has been working closely with Digicel to advise and encourage this innovative service. The Reserve Bank supports rural outreach and is delighted to see the innovation being applied in Tonga.”

At the moment customers can pay all their Digicel accounts using the service and other services.

Tonga Power is supporting the service which will make it easier for people to pay their power bills.

Steven ‘Esau



Steven ‘Esau, Finance Manager for Tonga Power said, “Tonga Power strives to ensure quality service is provided to the people of Tonga to settle their electricity bills and Tonga Power is proud to be part of this new initiative by Digicel.”

The project received financial and technical support from Pacific Financial Inclusion Programme, a Pacific wide programme helping to provide sustainable financial services to low income households. PFIP is funded by the UNCDF, Aus AID and the UNDP.

matangitonga.to



14 Jan 2011

Sifa Tu’utafaiva chairs House

Sifa Tu’utafaiva



TONGATAPU People’s Representative Siosifa Tu’utafaiva has been voted by the House as the new Chairman of the Whole House Committee during this afternoon’s session of the Tonga Legislative Assembly, following his unexplained absence during the morning.

The house resumed at 2:00pm this afternoon and Sifa Tu’utafaiva was sworn in as a new member of parliament since he was absent during this morning’s ceremony.

Sioasi Vete of the Parliament Office said a ballot was carried out to elect the Chairman of the Whole House committee, from the two nominees Sifa Tu’utafaiva and Sangstar Saulala.

The House took a break at 3:00pm before resuming for the rest of the afternoon session to look at general affairs of the House and some bills.

The House will be working overtime tonight to look at the state of the Tongan economy.

matangitonga.to



04 Jan 2011

Tonga set to develop rugby in 2011

TONGAN rugby made significant developments in 2010, including a centre to develop licensed referees, the introduction of women’s rugby, as well as the success of the national team the ‘Ikale Tahi in Europe.

The new Tonga Rugby Union Authority at its inaugural meeting on December 29 at Fasimoeafi also welcomed the first female director of Tonga Rugby, ‘Aloma Johansson who was recently appointed to the board.

TRUA Board chairman Bob Tuckey in a statement outlined the new initiatives undertaken by the Board since its establishment in February 2010.

Notable achievements included the establishment of a licensed training centre for referee development; the international debut of Tonga’s first woman’s rugby sevens team; and the success of the ‘Ikale Tahi in its November tour of Europe.

Despite the ‘Ikale Tahi’s poor performance at the Pacific Nations cup in Samoa in the middle of 2010, the recent victories over Italy A and the French Barbarians had made the TRUA optimistic for 2011.

‘Ikale Tahi Head Coach, ‘Isitolo Maka who was present at the meeting, told the TRUA that Tongan rugby was in progress for the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand this year.

Referee and Rugby Development Manager, ‘Etoni Tonga, outlined to the meeting, the Union’s detailed planning for the delivery of coach and referee education and accreditation courses in the four sub-union territories throughout 2011.

2011

The 2011 international programme will commence in mid-January 2011 with two matches to be played between Tonga A and Melbourne Rebels, the new Australian Super Rugby franchise.

The meeting also honoured the memory of the late Sione Mafi, the captain of the famous 1973 team who defeated the Australian Wallabies at Ballymore in Brisbane. He died in Brisbane in early December.

Attending the inaugural meeting were the deputy chairman Rev Tevita Latailakepa and board directors ‘Aminiasi Kefu and ‘Aloma Johansson; as well as representatives of the four sub-unions.

 

 



31 Dec 2010

FIT ends 2010 with a Pangaimotu swim

Nuku’alofa, Tonga:

 

Tricia escorting the swimmers



THE Friendly Islands Triathlon (FIT) concluded 2010 with a Pangaimotu Islan “fear no Sharks” swim event.

The two categories swim, 3km swim from Pangaimotu to Fangaloto and return, and a 1.5k swim from Fangaloto to Pangaimotu on Saturday afternoon, December 18.

The 3k dash, had 13 men competing, and the 1.5k swim with four male and four female competed.

Ashley Perkins completed the 3km dash in 46m 57s. In second place was ‘Alo Fe’iloakitau in 55m 40s and in third place was John O’Malley at 56m 42s.

In the 1.5k dash, the male category was won by Kevin Lam in 23m 14s.

The female category was won by Tonia Calabria with a time of 29m 21s.

matangitonga.to




04 Nov 2010

$1.2 million handout for Ashika families

1.2 million handout for Ashika families.jpg

The Solicitor General ‘Aminiasi Kefu (centre) and government ministers at the distribution to Ashika families who agreed not to file claims



THE Government of Tonga this morning, November 4 handed out about $1.2 million pa’anga to the next of kin of 14 victims who died in the sinking of the MV Princess Ashika ferry in August last year. Each family received a cheque of $80,000 pa’anga.

This $80,000 handout came from government to the next of kin of the victims who had not filed any civil claims against government. At the same time it is understood that those who had already filed claims could also join the handout if they withdrew their claims, but they were advised to consult with their lawyers first.

It was a sad occasion at the FWC Moulton Hall for the families of the 14 victims and many wept as they went up to receive their $80,000 cheque, which brought back sad memories of the tragic event.

It was also confirmed that an initial $800,000 pa’anga was paid out last week to next of kin of nine victims in Vava’u and to one family in Ha’apai.

Next of kin of the Ashika victims

 

Tevita Kanongata’a and the Minister of Revenue Hon Teisina Fuko



Next-of-kin

The Minister of Justice Hon Samiu Vaipulu told the sombre gathering of up to 30 family members at the Hall in Nuku’alofa that this was the final handing out of the “gift”, referring to the money handed out for families who lost members in the tragedy. The final hand out also continues tomorrow at the Ministry of Justice office in Nuku’alofa.

Those who received their cheques this morning were those who had completed certain requirements under the law to determine who was the rightful next of kin to receive the money.

“This hand-out is according to the law and to the rightful next of kin of a victim,” the minister said.

This morning’s distribution amounted to about $1.2 million pa’anga in total.

The Solicitor General ‘Aminiasi Kefu read out the names of 15 next of kin of the 14 victims, including two sons Sione and Heneli Filiai who lost their mother Liliani Filiai (53). They shared the $80,000 and received $40,000 cheque each.

The Minister of Revenue Hon Tesina Fuko and the Minister of Justice handed out the cheques.

Emergency Funds

In September it was revealed by the Minister of Justice that Government had committed up to $6 million pa’anga from its $15 million National Emergency Funds for the distribution of the $80,000 each for 74 lives lost in the ferry sinking.

At that time there were about 30 civil claims made against Government in the Supreme Court.

However, it is understood now that some families who had lodged claims were backing out and instead choosing to receive the handout from government.

Minister of Justice Samiu Vaipulu at the distribution for Ashika victims next of kin today

matangitonga.to



04 Nov 2010

Japanese concert in Nuku’alofa

Japenese Concert in Nukualofa.jpg

Performance in Tonga by musicians from Japan

THREE professional Japanese musicians showcased Japanese music using string instruments, koto and shamisen on Tuesday night in a free concert at the Queen Salote Memorial Hall in Nuku’alofa.

The trio came to Tonga on a two-day cultural promotion.

The Japanese Embassy in Nuku’alofa said the three women musicians included Koto Master player Ms Satsuki Odamura and Ms Hitomi Kurosawa both based in Australia, and Ms Tomomi Kageyama from Japan.

Koto is a thirteen stringed traditional Japanese instrument stretched along a soundboard nearly two meters long with the attributes of the western harp, dulcimer and lute. The shamisen is a Japanese guitar-like instrument.

40th Anniversary

The concert commemorates the 40th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan made possible by the Japan Foundation in its aim to promote cultural exchange between Japan and the world.

In March earlier this year, the first concert by Japanese musicians hosted by the Japanese Embassy in Nuku’alofa featured two Japanese musicians Mr Toshinori Sakamoto and Ms Noriko Tadano, who performed traditional Japanese folk music on the shamisen.



04 Nov 2010

42,067 registered voters for November 25 Election

WITH only three weeks left to the General Election on November 25, a total of 42,067 voters have registered to elect their new leaders in the polls under a new government system.

The Tongatapu District holds a majority of the registered voters with 29,056. Vava’u has 6,657 voters, while Ha’apai has 3,257 voters.

The island of ‘Eua has 2,242 registered voters, with the two Niuas holding only 855 voters.

There are 146 candidates contesting 17 constituencies.

Of the 17, there are 10 constituencies in Tongatapu, three in Vava’u, two in Ha’apai and one each in ‘Eua and the two Niuas.

The Electoral Commission at 9 September 2010 had recorded the following number of registered voters by consitutency:

Tongatapu 1 – 2932
Tongatapu 2 – 2545
Tongatapu 3 – 3062
Tongatapu 4 – 2400
Tongatapu 5 – 3120
Tongatapu 6 – 3015
Tongatapu 7 – 2837
Tongatapu 8 – 2937
Tongatapu 9 – 2946
Tongatapu 10 – 3262
‘Eua 11 – 2242
Ha’apai 12 – 1594
Ha’apai 13v1663
Vava’u 14 – 2510
Vava’u 15 – 1997
Vava’u 16 – 2150
Ongo Niua 17 –
Niuatoputapu 609,
Niuafo’ou 246.

matangitonga.to



31 Oct 2010

Princess Regent commissions new ferry MV ‘Otuanga’ofa

Princess Regent commissions new ferry MV Otuangaofa.jpgThe Princess Regent HRH Princess Pilolevu Tuita boards the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa



TONGA’S new inter-island ferry the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa sailed around the Nuku’alofa harbour, following its commissioning by the Princess Regent HRH Princess Pilolevu Tuita on Thursday October 28 at the Queen Salote Wharf.

The Japanese Ambassador to Tonga HE Mr Yasuo Takase presented a key for the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa to the Princess Regent followed by a Japanese tradition, the breaking open of a barrel of sake by the Princess.

The new 1,534-ton ferry can carry up to 400 passengers and was financed under a Grant Aid from the Government of Japan, worth over TOP$30 million pa’anga.

Mr Takase said the project for the construction of the vessel was initiated upon request from the Government of Tonga with a view of providing safe and reliable means of marine transportation in carrying people and goods between islands.

He the new new inter-island vessel provided by Japan replaced the MV Olovaha, under the Government of Japan’s firm commitment to contribute towards the improvement of basic infrastructure necessary for social and economic development in Tonga.

The MV ‘Otuanga’ofa was designed by Project Manager Mr Toyonori Watanabe and built by ISB Co Ltd specifically designed to suit Tongan waters.

Japanese Ambassador to Tonga HE Mr Yasuo Takase presented a key for the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa to the Princess Regent HRH Princess Pilolevu Tuita

 

MV ‘Otuanga’ofa

The Ambassador said the design of the ferry placed emphasis on safety particularly on stability and its fireproof construction. The vessel is equipped with highly efficient rudders and bow thrusters, which provide great manoeuvrability. It has fuel-efficient engines, modern electronic navigation equipment including radar, GPS and powerful cargo handling equipment, he said.

He also remembered the victms of the ferry sinking last year.

“On this occasion I cannot refrain from recalling the tragedy of the MV Princess Ashika, which was the interim ferry replacing the MV Olovaha. I would like to express our deepest sympathy and most sincere condolences to the families, relatives, friends of people for their significant loss in this tragedy.”

He hoped that the Government of Tonga would ensure an effective management system to be in place for the safe and effective operation and proper maintenance of the new vessel to ensure that the Tongan people would benefit from it ifor many years to come.

“The MV ‘Otuanga’ofa is a great monument in celebrating the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Tonga and Japan this year and acts as a sign of Japan’s commitment to continue to cooperate with Tonga in their self help efforts for economic and social development in Tonga,” he said.

Japanese Ambassador to Tonga HE Mr Yasuo Takase at the commissioning of the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa

 

the breaking open of a barrel of sake by the Princess Regent.

Magnificent gift

The Prime Minister of Tonga Hon Dr Feleti Sevele said it was an historical occasion and a happy moment for the people as the commissioning of the new modern vessel was a magnificent gift from the Government and people of Japan.

He acknowledged other major projects funded by the Government of Japan noting the construction of the final phase of Vaiola Hospital worth $36 million pa’anga as well as many other projects covering all sectors of the economy since 1977.

Dr Sevele in thanking the Government and people of Japan said the vessel filled an important gap in the transport needs of the Tongan people.

“Properly maintained and serviced, this ferry should last more that 30 years but that is the key – properly maintained and services,” he said.

“Our ties with your Government and people have been long standing, friendly and close, and more significantly between our two royal households, which underpinned thestrong diplomatic relations between our two governments.”

Commercial services are expected to start by the end of November 2010 upon completion of crew training, sea trials and setting up of infrastructure and management systems for the ferry.

Guests prepare to board the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa at Queen Salote Wharf

 

The Prime Minister Hon. Dr Feleti Sevele boards MV ‘Otuanga’ofa

 

Bridge of the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa with Captain Vakauta Pola Vi

 

MV ‘Otuanga’ofa passenger seating

 

Mr Yosimitsu Kawata, Counsellor of the Embassy of Japan (centre) with JICA and Japanese visitors on the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa

 

Deck of the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa

 

Tevita Palefau and Dr Viliami Tangi on the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa

 

Cindy Soakai at the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa first harbour cruise

 

MV ‘Otuanga’ofa
Tongan dancing at Queen Salote Wharf for the commissioning of the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa

 

MV ‘Otuanga’ofa

matangitonga.to



30 Oct 2010

Pacific youth workers making a difference

Pacific youth workers making a difference.jpg

Pacific youth workers making a difference
SUPPORTING the development of young people in Pacific communities by providing proper training for youth workers from Samoa, Fiji and Tonga is aim of a Response Abilities Pathways Workshop opened in Nuku’alofa on October 27-29.

Initiated under a Pacific Youth Development Program “Ola Fou”, the workshop attended by nine youth workers was opened by Tonga’s Police Commander Chris Kelley on October 27.

Commander Kelley said Tonga Police are at the forefront of dealing with youth problems daily and too often in his job he sees young people take the wrong path often by accident but sometimes by design.

He said areas of concern they deal with daily included young persons involved in alcohol, drugs, housebreaking, domestic violence, fraud, sexual offending and other offences.

“Most of the young people we deal with have poor life skills in relationship issues, financial management, work ethics and leadership,” he said.

“That’s where you come in and make a difference with your skills development to provide life skills to support others because sometimes all it takes is for another person to listen, talk to and to get alongside with.”

Police Commander Chris Kelley with youth workers from Samoa, Fiji and Tonga



The Commander then highlighted that Tonga needed leadership in youth and it needed positive people who wanted to make a difference and are prepared to get involved and develop Tonga’s youth potential.

The “Ola Fou” program is in partnership with Praxis, a tertiary provider certified by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority and supported by NZAID. Participants were to receive diplomas at the end of the workshop.

Participants from Tonga included youth workers, volunteers from the Tonga National Youth Congress, Free Wesleyan Church Youth and from Vava’u.

Also attending was Mr Sereki Korowiri of Fiji, the Youth Development Coordinator for the Pacific Region and Mr Lloyd Martin NZ Praxis Trainer. 




28 Oct 2010

FROM TOILETS TO TOURISM.png

It all begins with a toilet. Well almost in the case of The Niuas where the green shoots of a tourism industry are starting to shoot. In the wake of the devastating Tsunami which struck the South Pacific in December last year, life has started to return to normal for the Island of Niuatoputapu in the Tonga’s Northern-most island group of The Niuas. With a population of around 1000, the pristine island of Niuatoputapu suffered major damage, which included the loss of villages and critical infrastructure such as the hospital and school.  Since then locals from the island, which is often described as a place where travellers can go to discover the real Tonga, have been busy trying to get their lives back to a semblance of normality. 

Added to this, the Tongan Red Cross has been working around the clock since December last year, first with emergency relief, and now with a stabalisation project which is managed solely by volunteers.  74 new temporary shelters are in the process of being erected, along with 148 water tanks, 2 per household.  A desalination plant has been constructed by the Red Cross, providing potable water and special projects involving  local school children are underway to regenerate the mangroves. 

The Niuas, being an excellent transitting port for Yachts on their way from Samoa to Tonga, has seen a steady flow of visitors over the past 9 months. It features a 10,000 litre water tank and sheltered anchorage which makes it ideal for yachts. Recently, some transitting yachties stayed and volunteered their time to assist with the construction of the temporary shelters, and left with lifelong friends and many unforgettable memories. The Red Cross has donated one of their shelters to the Niuas for a new amenities block for yachts and cruise ships and plans are now underway to source the materials needed to complete the project.

If you would like to assist with the Niuas regeneration project, or would like to find out more about short term volunteering holidays, please contact the Tourism Tonga office at: tourismtonga@live.com



27 Oct 2010

EXPAT TONGANS AND VISITORS INVITED TO THE KINGDOM FOR THIS YEAR’S CAROLS BY THE SEA EVENT

cAROLS BY THE SEA.png

Organisers of this years Carols by the Sea – the family Carols concert have announced this year’s concert will have the theme “Tonga around the Globe” and will include special guest appearances from Tonga’s large global expatriate community. 

A special invitation is going out to Tongans living overseas to come back and join in the fun this year, with publicity for this year’s event already underway in New Zealand’s  with Maori TV putting out the call for expat performers to take part.

The charity event, which raised over $5000 for the Tongan Red Cross last year, and will this year will be raising much needed funds for Breast Cancer Awareness, will take place at the Royal property of Pangai Lahi, downtown Nuku’alofa on the 11the December. 

After a hugely successful event last year, which included a cast of of over 100 performers and which was attended by His Majesty King George Tupou V, organisers are hoping the event will become a mainstay in the Tongan calendar and have this year publicise the event abroad in the hope of attracting both Tongans and visitors from overseas to come and experience a real Polynesian Christmas.

“We’re hoping to provide the people of Nuku’alofa and our guests from overseas with a Christmas concert with a uniquely Tongan flavour” say the organising committee. “This year’s event promises to be a fun event for the whole family and we urge everyone to come down and take part on the night”.

For more information on how to take part in this years Carols by the Sea concert please email reeceproudfoot@hotmail.com or call 7732416.

carols.png

 



22 Oct 2010

Pink October for breast cancer awareness

20101017_pinkday_3954.jpgChristine ‘Uta’atu, Kate, Robina Nakao and Sue Gardiner



RECOGNISING the importance of breast cancer awareness in Tonga, women at a Pink Fundraising Lunch on October 14 raised $6,000 pa’anga for the Tonga Breast Cancer Society

A highlight of activities during the October Breast Cancer awareness month, the pink lunch at the Janfull International Dateline Hotel Garden was attended by over 90 women, including HRH Princess Pilolevu Tuita and Hon Frederica Tuita, the President of the Tonga Breast Cancer Society. TBCS.

Women dressed in colourful pink outfits and accessories, raised money in lunch tickets, raffle tickets, auctions and drinks.

TBCS Treasurer Christine ‘Uta’atu said the event was a great success because they are getting more attendants, participation and publicity, and raising breast cancer awareness amongst women in Tonga.

Linda Ma’u, Jessie Prema and ‘Olive Ramanlal

 

Tahna Taumoepeau and Ana Sanft



She said they would also have a booth at the Pasifiki Trade Fair this week, and would take the opportunity to raise more awareness on the importance of self-examination and early detection of the disease.

The money raised paid for the expenses of the lunch and the Breast Cancer would use the remaining with its programs such as holding visits to villages to speak on the importance breast cancer awareness, early detection and diagnosis.

Holding more breast cancer awareness would help lift the feeling of taboo among women in Tonga on the issue, so that they could come forward to seek advice from the TBCS, she said.

To conclude the October Breast Cancer month, TBCS plans a Breast Cancer Awareness walk in Nuku’alofa on October 30. Every Friday in Tonga is pink Friday in support of the Breast Cancer awareness.

Christine said they were also thankful for the increasing support and donations from the local businesses like MBF Bank and Billfish Bar and Restaurant.

 

Meletoe’umu Latu, Sela Luani and Kate Yeoman
Sandra Fa’apoi and Cheri ‘Aho
Polotu Fakafanua Paunga and Zettie de Bruyn

 

TBCS Patron HRH Princess Pilolevu Tuita with pink costume prize winners, and the TBCS Treasurer Christine ‘Uta’atu

 

 


 

 

 


22 Oct 2010

King of Tonga accepts portrait in Sydney

 

Portrait of King Tupou V.jpg 

Portrait of King George Tupou V
TONGA’S King George Tupou V visited the gallery of Sydney artist, Charles Billich on Tuesday, October 20 to see one of four portraits of himself that he commissioned the artist to paint.

The ABC News reporter Danuta Kozaki reported that the artist’s painting of the king was a “formal and dignified portrait.” Danuta is known for his painting of naked women.

He said the king was welcomed at the gallery by an Australian-Tongan, Lorna Tonga, who sang the national anthem of both countries before the king looked at one of the portraits on display.

Artist Charles Billich said he was honoured to be selected to draw the portrait of the king of Tonga.

“God knows for what reasons but probably because he felt there was something about my approach to portraiture, which was suitable for his sensibilities, I can extrapolate the character from a person.”

Pleased

The king himself said he was very pleased with the pictures.

“Well, the thing is a lot of artists are actually better than what they think they are. Donatello for example was apprenticed as plasterer, Michelangelo thought he was a sculptor. Charles Billich, I like his drawings better than his paintings.”

There was also talk at the event about the democratic elections to be held in Tonga at the end of November, and the king was asked how he felt about it.

“Its the culmination of everything I have worked for in my life to have a democratic government.”

King George Tupou V and Charles Billich

 



22 Oct 2010

147 candidates for November Election

REGISTRATION of candidates closed at 3pm today, with a total of 147 candidates running for the General Election on November 25.

After 4:00pm candidates were called for each constituency and drew a number, being their position on the ballot paper, upon police supervision inside the Electoral Commission office in Nuku’alofa.

At 6:45pm the Electoral Supervisor Pita Vuki on Radio Tonga read out the names of the candidates for the 17 constituencies.



The Chairman of the Electoral Commission Barry Sweetman said October 21-22 were set aside as registration days and aspiring candidates filed their registration in Tongatapu and in offices in the outer islands.

He said on October 21 the commission received 83 registrations in Nuku’alofa with an additional 28 registered in the outer islands making a total of 111 registrations for day one.

On Day two and final day of registration a further 26 registrations were received in Nuku’alofa with an additional 10 registered in the outer islands.

This brought the total number of candidates for the November Election to 147 in Tonga.

He said the most popular constituency was Tongatapu 6 and 9 with 15 candidates each and the smallest was Ha’apai 13, ‘Eua 11 and Niuas 17 with only three candidates each.

 


matangittonga.to



22 Oct 2010

Candidates register for November Election

20101021_registr_4199.jpg

FIFTY candidates had registered for the November 25 General Election, on the first day of registration in Tongatapu today and more have registered in the outer islands.

The Supervisor of elections Pita Vuki told Matangi Tonga that after mid-day today there was a steady flow of candidates queing up for registration and 10 women were among the candidates registered for Tongatapu.

The registration figures from the outer islands of ‘Eua, Ha’apai, Vava’u, Niuafo’ou and Niuatoputapu were still coming in.

Friday October 22 is the second and the final day for registration, starting at 10 am until 3 pm and the Supervisor expected he would release the names and registration numbers at 6 pm.

Candidates will draw their numbers after the registration closes at 3 pm, and their number will be their position on the ballot papers to be used in the election.



“Everything went smoothly today and I reckon most of the candidates have registered today with only a few remaining for tomorrow,” said Pita. He estimated that the total number of candidates for the November election could reach 100 including those from the outer islands.

Registration of candidates runs from 10am-3pm and is held for two days on October 21-22 in Tongatapu, Vava’u, Ha’apai, ‘Eua and the two Niuas.

 

matangitonga.com



20 Oct 2010

Ground breaking for final phase of new Vaiola Hospital

new building for Vaiola Hosp..jpg

Center The Princess Regent Princess Pilolevu marks the upgrading and refurbishment of Vaiola Hospital



THE $36.1 million final phase of the Vaiola Hospital begins this month with the construction of a new outpatients department, accident and emergency unit, dental clinic, pharmacy, specialist clinics and nursing school, which are expected to be completed in March 2012.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held on October 20 by the Princess Regent HRH Princess Pilolevu Tuita for the final phase of the reconstruction and refurbishment of Vaiola Hospital, entirely funded by a Grant Aid from the Government of Japan.

The Minister of Health Hon Dr Viliami Tangi wholeheartedly thanked the Government and people of Japan for their generous grant aid. He said that when finished Vaiola would be among the best in the Pacific.

L-R The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health, Hon Dr Viliami Tangi; the Japanese Ambassador to Tonga, HE Mr Yasuo Takase; the Prime Minister, Hon. Dr Feleti Sevele



A new two-storey building will accommodate the Accident and Emergency Unit, Outpatients Department, Specialist Clinical Department, Pharmacy, Administration and Maternal and Child Healthcare. Other buildings would include a Dental Unit, the Queen Salote Nursing School and other facilities.

A Japanese company NPK will supply, install and refurbish the hospital with new equipment.

 



Health

The Japanese Ambassador HE Mr Yasuo Takase in his address said that health is a priority area for Japanese assistance to Tonga and Vaiola Hospital plays a central role in providing health services to the people of Tonga.

He said this project is the second grant assistance by Japan to the hospital following Phase 1 that was completed in 2007. Both projects cost at total of $3 billion yen, which is roughly TOP$66 million pa’anga.

There are also 28 Japanese volunteers assisting in the hospital’s capacity building efforts.

Solar power

He said a key feature of the project is the provision of a solar power system that will provide approximately 20 percent of the total daytime energy consumption for the hospital aligning itself with the Tonga Energy Road Map, he said.

He said Kitano Construction would work with Tongan constructors and people on the project. “And I believe this will have some positive effects on the Tongan economy as well as the Tongan technology in the construction field,” he said.

“I sincerely hope that the new hospital buildings and equipments provided will be utilised and maintained most effectively and properly and further contribute to improving the health of the Tongan people.”

The demolition of the old Vaiola Hospital building was done in June this year after 39 years of service.

 

 

matangitonga.to

 

 

 

 



19 Oct 2010

Women’s equal rights not a priority for candidates



Weekly “Meet the Press” dialogue every Wednesday evening



GUARANTEEING equal rights for women in Tonga by endorsing CEDAW was not a commitment for four of the candidates running for election, who did not understand the Convention to End All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

Meeting the Press on October 13 four candidates answered questions on the theme “If they go into the house would they push for Tonga to become a signatory to the CEDAW Convention and would they draft laws for women to have equal rights to own properties and to hold noble titles.”

Participating in the public dialogue at the Dateline Hotel on Wednesday, October 13 were prospective candidates, Linda Ma’u, Vuna Fa’otusia, ‘Amanaki Paea and ‘Aisake Tu’iono, who believed that they could protect women’s rights without Tonga endorsing CEDAW.

Radio presenters Katalina Tohi and Mona Lisa Palu



Linda Ma’u, a candidate for the Tongatapu No. 4 constituency expressed her concern that if Tonga became a signatory to CEDAW, it might mean legalizing abortion and same-sex-marriage, two practices that she detested. However, when asked to point out where in the CEDAW it required this, she did not know.

With regards to the rights of women to own hereditary land and noble titles. Linda pointed out that women can lease land, and she said that should satisfy their desire to own property. To protect women against the growing problem of wife beatings and the sexual abuse of women, Linda believed that parliament should draft legislation but at the same time Tonga should not be pressured to sign the CEDAW.

‘Amanaki Paea



Vuna Fa’otusia, a candidate for Tongatapu No. 7 said that there is a Department of Women Affairs and Tonga traditionally looked after its women’s affairs. “The problem is the law, it does not reflect the seriousness of crimes against women,” Vuna said that the maximum imprisonment sentence for rape is 15, where as in some states in the USA it was life. He believed that sex offences such as incest deserved a very heavy penalty. With regards to government endorsing CEDAW and the possibility of Tonga legalizing same-sex marriages to take place, Vuna’s reaction was “never.”

‘Amanaki Paea and ‘Aisake Tu’iono



‘Amanaki Paea, a candidate for Tongatapu No. 7 took a different approach to women’s issues. He said that with the establishment of constituencies and possibly Local Government there should be a Pressure Group in each constituency to monitor and to protect women’s rights. He believed that the work of Pressure Groups would be most effective in protecting women’s rights.

Kololiana Naufahu questions candidates



‘Aisake Tu’iono, a candidate for Tongatapu No. 9, disapproved with the CEDAW if it meant Tonga had to legalize abortion and allow same-sex marriages. He suggested that a definite decision on CEDAW could only be made following a national survey.

In response to a question of whether or not he was in favour of the idea of designated seats for women, ‘Aiske believed that women had the equal opportunities and rights to become a member of parliament and therefore there was no need to have designated seats in parliament for women.

‘Aisake said he was a strong believer in a national survey, on any issues before government passed a decision and take action.

With six weeks to go before the November 25 election, there will be five more “Candidates meeting the Press” programs. On Wednesday, October 20 candidates will answer questions on the theme “Foreign trade and encouraging foreign earnings”, with candidates Masaso Paunga, Sione Tupouniua, ‘Ulhila Liava’a, and ‘Etuate Sakalia. The final program will be on November 17.




29 Sep 2010

Tongans give over $839,000 for Christchurch earthquake appeal

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TONGA’S Christchurch Earthquake Appeal fund has collected $839,957 pa’anga to date with more cash donations expected to be raised in a second national radiothon appeal to be held on Thursday, September 29 in Nuku’alofa.

The Prime Minsiter’s Press Secretary Lopeti Senituli told Matangi Tonga on September 28, that the amount in the appeal fund account included the Government of Tonga’s commitment of NZD$500,000 and the money raised on the first national radiothon held on Saturday, September 25.

He said they were aiming to raise as much money by Friday, October 1 before the cash donation wa transferred to Christchurch.

On Saturday volunteers including school students went around the Nuku’alofa market places with cardboard boxes and plastic bags collecting donations.

The second radiothon will be held between 11:00am to 1:00pm on September 30 after the official closing of the 2010 Legislative Assembly.



28 Sep 2010

MV ‘Otuanga’ofa sails for Tonga

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MV ‘Otuanga’ofa sails from Tokyo. Photo courtsey ISB Co. Ltd.
TONGA’S new inter island ferry the MV ‘Otuanga’ofa left Japan on September 27 on its way to Tonga where it is expected to arrive in Nuku’alofa on October 15.

The Japanese Embassy in Nuku’alofa received confirmation from the ISB Co. Ltd. in Tokyo, that the ferry had left the ISB shipyard wharf on September 27 after a departure ceremony.

Previously, on September 22 a signing ceremony was held between Tonga’s Minister of Transport Hon. Nuku and Japanese officials, to mark the official handing over of the new ferry to the Tongan Government.

Captain Lupeti Vi was present to bring the boat back to Tonga.

Tonga’s Minister of Transport Hon. Nuku and Japanese officials at the handing over of the new ferry. Photo courtesy ISB Co. Ltd.

 

Handing over of the new inter island ferry the MV ‘Otuanga’ofaPhoto courtesy ISB Co. Lt

 

matangitonga.to



28 Sep 2010

King will not attend historic closing of Tongan Legislative Assembly

King George V.jpg

King George Tupou V, leaving the old parliament for the last time in June 10 after opening the 2010 parliamentary session



TONGA’S King George Tupou V will not close the last session of the Tonga Legislative Assembly on its historic closing on Thursday, September 30, the last under the existing system before a new system of government is introduced.

The closure will be made without the king or the usual fanfare of school children marching through the streets of Nuku’alofa.

The Chief Clerk of the House Dr Viliami Uasike Latu told Matangi Tonga today, September 28, that three nobles, who have not been named would carry out a “soft closing ceremony” at the Parliament House.

He said by soft closing, there would be no marching by school children nor would there be guests apart from the members of the parliament and their spouses.

It would be the same soft low-key ceremony as that of the 2009 closing ceremony offiated by Lord Fielakepa accompanied by Noble Ma’afu and Noble Fulivai on April 22 this year, where less than a dozen spectators were present.

Earlier the Chief Clerk hoped that because this was the last session of the Tonga Legislative Assembly under the current system, HM King George Tupou V would close it, but that is not the case now.

No reason has been given for the King’s decision not to attend the closing of parliament this week.

matangitonga.to



28 Sep 2010

Three weeks before candidates register

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WITH only three weeks left until candidates register for the Tonga General Election set for November 25, it is expected that some high level public servants will resign their posts in order to stand for election to parliament.

Public Servants who intend to run must resign before registration on on October 21-22.

Supervisor of Election said on September 26, that the Public Service Commission would receive resignations of those public servants who are intending to run as candidates in the election, before the registration dates. This requirement was passed by the Tongan Parliament earlier this month in an Amended Bill to the Public Servant Act.

There has been no comment from the Public Service Commission on which public servants have to date tendered their resignations in order to run for election.

But there are some who have publicly declared their campaigns, such as the Government’s Auditor General Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa.




27 Sep 2010

Tonga team leaves for Commonwealth Games in Delhi

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TEN members of the Tonga team for the Commonwealth Games left Tonga at 10:00am today September 27 for Auckland, where they met up with eight other athletes and officials, on their way to Delhi in India tonight.

The team from Tonga included archer Sifa Taumoepeau and officials. Otehrs in Auckland included eight members of the boxing, swimming and weightlifting teams.

Takitoa Taumoepeau, the TASA Secretary General and Tonga’s Commonwealth Games and Queen Baton Relay Liaison Officer, said the Rugby 7’s who are currently in Darwin would leave for Delhi on October 3 to join the rest of the team.

Takitoa sai on Friday that they were confident with reports from Tonga’s Consular General in Delhi that everything was well and calm and that the Tonga team would still be competing in the Commonwealth Games.

“Tonga does not have the means to send security personnel to Delhi but the reports we received say that everything is calm and the games would definitely be held on October 3.”

Takitoa said that every athlete in the team is insured by TASA as is usual for international competitions.

Tonga will be competing in five sports of archery, boxing, swimming, Rugby 7’s and weightlifting.



23 Sep 2010

Women in white answer the call Faka-Sepitema

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WHITE ‘Faka-Sepitema’ today, September 22, in Tonga saw hundreds of women members of the Church of Tonga dressed in white, gathering for their annual roll call.

The women lay preachers answered their call at the Free Church of Tonga located across from the Royal Tombs and the Church of Tonga Hou’eiki at Kilikali on Fatafehi Road on this special day held once a year.

 

 

 



23 Sep 2010

Few sources of income for Tongans in sight

sources of income.jpg

A MEDIA Dialogue providing a forum for journalists and the public to question candidates who are running for the Tonga General Election continued in Nuku’alofa on September 22.

The two hours media session this week featured candidates Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa, Sunia Fili, Kamipeli Tofa and Daniel Fale.

Moderators were Media Council President and Matangi Tonga Editor Pesi Fonua, Taimi ‘o Tonga Publisher Kalafi Moala, Manager of Broadcom 88.1FM Katalina Tohi and the owner of Professional PR, Monalisa Palu.

The issue this week was the Tongan economy, and the topic was “What could be the main source of income for all Tongans.”

None

Sunia Fili, Pohiva Tui’onetoa, Kamipeli Tofa, Taniela Fale

 

 

Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa, Government’s Auditor General who is running in Tongatapu 10 constituency admitted that he just could not think of an industry or a source of income for every Tongan, to replace the copra industry which collapsed during the late 1960s.

He said there were some small avenues where some people earn money but with regards to any one particular industry, where every Tongan could deprive an income from, there is none.

“In the past copra was one of Tonga’s main income earners with that industry gone we have none nor do we have an alternative source of income to replace it,” he said.

“I am still thinking what can be done and I am reading on the harvesting sea cucumbers, but in truth there is nothing major at present that could generate an income for all,” he said.

Labour
Kamipeli Tofa who runs in the Ha’apai 13 constituency from the Party Tu’uloa said his party’s Economic Policy is to consolidate the economy in regards to the sources of income and the macro economy from the financial and industrial sectors like that of agriculture, sea cucumbers, government with regards to budget and investment.

He said at the same his party was looking at submitting for a minimum wage of $3 increased from $1 per hour for workers so as to sustain the worker.

Kalafi Moala put to Kamipeli that anyone could say that whereas he is a candidate who has taken up the challenge to run for Parliament.

He then put through the question to the incumbent ‘Eua People’s Representative, Sunia Fili.

Sunia said the truth is when Tongans are full they are happy and they tend to work hard but when they are hungry they become sad and commit crimes such as theft.

He said Tongans should build on four aspects of the Tongan economy that is of business, bank, government and trade. He noted that income is low and the only main source is remittances and pointed out another could be opportunities abroad for Tongans in terms of work.

He said some Tongans were prosperous from the ocean and some from agriculture and making of handicrafts. “These are avenues we need to encourage,” he said.
Pesi Fonua directed the candidates to be more specific with their answers because with regards to agriculture and fisheries, it was not working anymore.
Local government

Daniel Fale who is running in Tongatapu number 10 said that as Tonga is moving toward a more democratic government and he believed that one way Tonga could keep money to circulate within the country instead of flowing overseas, was to set up a local government.

He noted at Lapaha it has a council where foreign aid directly goes to for various projects.

When aid came in through the local council it meant that work and employment was created for residents in the village and money the earned circulated within the community and remained in Tonga, he said.

The dialogue with candidates will continue next Wednesday, featuring five new candidates.

matangitonga.to



22 Sep 2010

New buildings rise in Nuku’alofa CBD

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Lalita Building, Hala Lelue, Nuku’alofa

THE Nuku’alofa Central Business District is undergoing a major facelift with new multi million buildings under construction rising up from the ashes of the fires and destruction in the riots of November 16, 2006.

Four years on and local businesses, whose buildings were destroyed in the riots have found confidence to rebuild.

The first business to open its doors to the public last week was Lalita Store, whose owners lost everything including stock and building in the riots.

Established by Indian business couple Chimanlala and his late wife Lalita in the 1980’s, the new Lalita Building is now a modern one storey building that not only houses the Lalita Retail Store on the bottom floor, but has rental space as well.

Chimanlala and his late wife Lalita



Their son Dharmesh Lal told Matangi Tonga on September 22, they are very proud and happy that Lalita has reopened at a place they call home and where their hearts have always been.

“The riots brought us to our knees, we went bankrupt because we not only lost our store but all our stock and we were forced to leave, and it has taken us a while to get back,” he said.

The cost of the new building is close to TOP$2 million financed under a joint Australia-New Zealand loan program.

He said that 75 percent of the building was occupied. Apart from the main Lalita Retail Store on the ground floor there are additional five rental units and on the top floor are three rental units.

The building opened on Friday, September 17 consists of a total of 1,450 square metres built by Group Construction Ltd with Lisiate Tupou from Tafolo as architect. Construction began in October 2009 and finished in July this year.

Local businesses

Also rising up of the ashes of 16/11 is Narottams Store located across the street from Lalita. The new building has been finished but not yet opened.

Narottams Store , Hala Lelue



Other much bigger construction expecteded to be finished before the end of the year is the four-storey Taumoepeau Building that will be rented out for retail outlets, office space and apartments.

Property owner Paula Taumoepeau said the building still had work to be done but he expected completion before the end of the year.

Royco Building and Taumoepeau Building



At the same time its neighbour, Royco Building build on the foundations of its former building, is to be completed in November.

Owner Salote Cocker said the one storey building has 1,000 square metres on both floors, and would offer rental space.

Meanwhile, the Sanft building that is still under construction on Taufa’ahau road boasts three storeys. Owner Carl Sanft said he was initially told by the Chinese constructor that it would be completed by June but now they said October.

Lalita Store, Hala Lelue, Nuku’alofa

 

Dharmesh Lal, and family

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17 Sep 2010

Tonga team leaves for Delhi, September 27

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TWENTY TWO athletes will represent Tonga in five sports at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India, from October 3-14.

The Tonga team was announced on September 16, by Takitoa Taumoepeau the Secretary General of the Tonga Amateur Sports Association (TASA) .

The team including a 13 man Rugby 7s team, seven boxers, a weightlifter, a swimmer and an archer, leaves Tonga for Delhi on September 27.


Tongan Commonwealth Games Team
Archery
1. Sifa Taumoepeau
Boxing
2. Uaine Fa
3. Semisi Kalu
4. ‘Ikani Falekaono
5. Sefo Falekaono
6. Asma Fifita
7. Vliami Latu
8. Lomalito Moala
Swimming
9. ‘Amini Fonua
Rugby 7’s
10. Feleti Fifita
11. Uate Tupou
12. Taani Kaliti
13. Ratu Ma’afu
14. Siua Ma’afu
15. Simana Halaifonua
16. Sailame Tukuafu
17. Samisoni Hafoka
18. Heamani Tu’ivai
29. Teukimuli Kaufusi
20. John Cocker
21. Fokolulu Taumalolo
Weightlifting
22. Michael Taufa

Team Management
Chef de Mission, ‘Amanaki Fakakovikaetau
General Manager, Hiko Fungavaka
Dr Lisiate ‘Ulufonua, Team Doctor
Setaleki Sisifa, Team Physio
Michael Crismale, Team Attache



17 Sep 2010

Public forum hot seat for election candidates

matangitonga.toPublic Forum.jpg

IN the lead up to the Tonga General Election on November 25, a Media Dialogue began in Nuku’alofa providing a forum for journalists and the public to question candidates who are running for election.

With only ten weeks left to the General Election the forum is being hosted by the Media Council Incorporated (Tonga) and started on September 15 at the International Dateline Hotel.

This week’s session saw five candidates on the hot seats for two hours of questioning. They were Lopeti Senituli, ‘Alisi Taumoeapeau, ‘Etuate Lavulavu, Sione Fonua and Polutele Tu’ihalamaka.

A panel of journalists led by Media Council President and Matangi Tonga Editor Pesi Fonua, Taimi ‘o Tonga Publisher Kalafi Moala and Monalisa Palu moderated the questions.

In the final half hour of the program the audience was given an opportunity to submit questions for the candidates to answer.

The programme will feature five different candidates every Wednesday and will be broadcasted live on Radio Nuku’alofa and also aired on DigiTV by Taimi Media Network.

Political Reform

On the topic of Political Reform, the candidates agreed that the people of Tonga wanted change in Tonga’s political system to a more democratic system where the people elect their leaders, the Prime Minister and Cabinet Ministers instead of being appointed by the king.

Sione Fonua, a Tongan candidate residing in New Zealand, said the reform was sparked by dissatisfaction over the current system therefore, people wanted to move to a better system. The reform would see the 40,000 registered voters elect their leaders, and he believed this system was better. The system allows people to elect 17 People’s Representatives to Parliament. These representatives would then elect the Prime Minister from among themselves and the new PM would then appoint the Ministers. Sione said the new system is better becasuse instead of leaders being accountable to the king they would become accountable to the people who elected them.

Lopeti Senituli, the Prime Minister’s Press Secretary, answered that basic fundamental freedoms are already enshrined in the Tongan Constitution the only one missing, is the right of the people to elect their government, and that is the reform that is about to take place.

Kalafi Moala asked why did the candidates think this new system would be better than the one that Tonga had been running under for over 100 years?

‘Alisi Taumoeapeau, a former Minister of Justice and former Attorney General, said that from her perspective the most important thing with regards to the reform in November was that “we the people want the change in our political system.” She said there would be good and bad, but she believed that if we pursued the good that was most important for Tonga.

“My vision is the Rule of Law, we have amended the Constitution, with the Electoral Act and Parliament Act, so it is up to us now to move it along and if there are any amendments then it should be the next government to do so,” she said.

Incumpent Vava’u People’s Epresentative ‘Etuate Lavulavu, on the other hand, was weary in the sense that Tonga is moving towards uncertainty as there are no measures to say otherwise, so he anticipated adversity and blessings for Tonga. He pointed out that the 17 constituencies into which Tonga has been divided were imbalanced.

But when asked by Pesi Fonua on why did parliament adopt the figure of 17 constituencies, the Vava’u MP answered that this figure was presented by Government in 2007, before his time so he did not know where it came from.

Village hardship

Polutele Tu’ihalamaka from Kolomotu’a, who is running in Tongatapu no. 1 constituency, said in his village families are living in hardship some trying to make ends meet and he had witnessed no development over the years.

A pressing issue he believed was a need for government to step back into the agricultural exports industry to help export their produce. He said he had been a farmer for many years, and they could not afford to export produce overseas. He was in full support that the industry be returned to a government board to help them export their products.

However, Lopeti in his view disagreed, noting that it was evident that government businesses do not survive.

He stressed what the existing government was doing now by installing machines for quarantine purposes was to enable exporters to export produce. He thought this was good enough and should be the only involvement by government.

“Government should not become an exporter itself – leave that to the businesses but help in terms of equipment. I don’t believe in bringing back government to set up businesses because many government businesses have died apart from Tonga Communication Corporation and Tonga Power that are subsidised,” he said.

Women and land

In a question from the audience on whether there were any good reasons as to why a woman in Tonga should not own land, ‘Alisi said there is no good reason why women should not own land in Tonga. However she was said that existing legislation has already given women rights to the land, in the form of a lease.

“The reason why I advocate that is better for women to lease than to register land is because a women has many options, she can choose to mortgage or sell her lease or even leave it in her will to her daughter.”

She said that is why for commercial and modern reasons leasing land by women was the best as one could be free to do as you wished.

The forum will continue every Wednesday evening from 7:00pm at the International Dateline Hotel and is open to the public.



18 Sep 2010

Tonga to make a cash contribution for Christchurch earthquake appeal

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Tonga to make cash contribution.jpg

Tonga is planning to make a cash contribution to the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Fund, and to donate a container of Tongan watermelons for the people of Christchurch.

A radio-phone appeal to raise funds for a Tongan contribution to the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Fund was announced by the Prime Minister, Dr Feleti Sevele yesterday, September 17.

He said that Cabinet had approved the allocation of $NZD500,000 from the National Relief Fund to initiate Tonga’s contribution, and a nation-wide radio-phone appeal to be hosted by A3Z Radio Tonga will held on Saturday, September 25.

The Prime Minister is appealing to the public to give generously and he expected that Tonga should made its contribution to the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Fund during the first week of October.

“New Zealand has always been the first to help us whenever we are struck by a natural disaster, and therefore Government decided that it is the proper thing to do, despite our current financial constraint situation,” said Dr Sevele.

The 7.1 earthquake that struck Christchurch on Saturday morning, September 4 reportedly damaged over 100,000 homes, and about 6,000 homes have been destroyed. The damaged to the city of Christchurch has been estimated to be around $4 billion.

The Secretary for the Ministry of Labour, Commerce and Industries, Moeaki Tatafu said that there are about 1000 Tongans in Christchurch, and three Tongan homes were damaged by the earthquake.

Watermelons

Apart from the fund raising, Afeaki from the Tongan Growers Federation announced at the meeting that the first shipment of Tongan watermelon was scheduled to leave for New Zealand on September 27, the first shipment in about six years. He said they would donate a container of watermelon to the people of Christchurch. “It would be great to slice and hand out water melon at the Square in Christchurch,” said Afeaki.

A committee to manage the fund raising program is chaired by Busby Kautoke, and assisted by Afeaki from the New Zealand Business Association, and Paula Taumoepeau from the Tonga Chamber of Commerce.

Tonga plans a fund raising telethon for Christchurch



15 Sep 2010

Poet-academic “hopeful” about political change.

Tonga Chronicle (Wednesday, September 15, 2010/ page 9)

Change is a part of life and people have to be hopeful about it, says renowned Tongan poet and Professor of Pacific Education at the University of the South Pacific (USP), Konai Helu Thaman.

On Tuesday, students and teachers from various schools, along with members of the public crowded at the Queen Salote College Hall to hear Thaman read and discuss over 15 original poems, as a way of “giving back’ to the community.

The Fiji-based academic, who also serves as a UNESCO chair Teacher Education and Culture, talked about the importance of Expressing love (‘ofa) and respect (faka’apa’apa) in poetry as part of maintaining core Tonga values.

But this did not mean change is impossible.

“I don’t think you can talk about loss of culture – culture is alive and dynamic” she told Tongan Chronicle. “Only dead things don’t change”.

Comment on Tonga’s journey towards political change, she said that it is up to voters to find out about what candidates are standing for.

“People have high expectations (with the new system)”, she said.

“You have to find out what politicians stand for, what they’ve done for the people, and what their manifesto is.

But you also have to be careful because sometimes politicians promise things while campaigning, then when they get into parliament they do other things”.

Her colleague Dr Seu’ula Johansson-Fua said that Thaman’s work was important to promote development while maintaining cultural values.

“The most sustainable development is with culture. Once you separate from the culture, there’s development, end of story. Our knowledge system will sustain us – that’s real development”, said Johansson-Fua.

Thaman’s Poetry focuses on the challenges of modernity and the conflict between individual wants and expectations from society. Her work is a regular component of Pacific high school English syllabi, while her academic publications on local Pacific theory and research methods are recognized internationally.

Konai Helu Thaman will be in Tonga until Friday running education programmes for local post-graduate students at USP.




16 Sep 2010

Tonga Launch first women in business association.

Tonga Chronicle (page 1-2, Wednesday,September 15, 2010)

The first incorporated women in business association in Tonga have started.

“Women in Sustainable Enterprises” (WISE) will provide support to business women, while working closely with government to address the challenges Tongan women in business face.

Monthly meetings will be held for members to network, share their experiences and vote on decisions affecting the direction of the association.

Other plans include offering training sessions to help women build their business skills and to foster an understanding of the requirements and benefits of running a formal business.

“We are thrilled to be launching the first ever incorporated women in business association in Tonga”, said Robina Nakao, WISE President.

“Our aim is to support our Tongan sisters in business to improve their financial outcomes, as well as helping those women who have an entrepreneurial spirit enter business and succeed in their endeavours”.

Members will work together to promote the interests and needs of business women, as well as to identify issues constraining female business environment.

“We intend to have a strong a voice in the business community”, Robina said. “We already have two of our members on the Task Force for Regulatory Reform’s starting a Business Working Group, which is made up of representatives from the private sector working on easing the administrative barriers for business registration and licensing, to ensure gender issues are properly considered”

Founding members proposed the WISE initiative following a report published by IFC –THE PRIVATE SECTOR AEM OF THE World Bank on the challenges Tongan women face in business.

Findings from the report showed that while women showed that while women are involved in the business world, their operations tend to be small and informal despite many ventures having growth potential.

The authors of the report attribute this trend to women lacking the knowledge of how to grow and expand their business, and the lack of a formal mechanism, such as an association, to express their business issues and concerns.

Board members include Robina Nakao, CEO of Fund Management Ltd; Lee Miller, CEO of Waste Management; Tanya Edwards, founder of SDE Memorials; and Cherie ‘Aho, Manager of Custom Broker. The membership fee is TOP$20.

Wise membership is open to women from both small and large business.



13 Sep 2010

Government offers $80,000 for each Ashika victim if families withdraw claims

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THE Tonga Government has promised to hand out $80,000 in compensation to families for each of the victims who died in the sinking of the MV Princess Ashika last August, on the condition that the next of kin will not file any civil claims against Government.

The Minister of Justice Hon Samiu Vaipulu told Matangi Tonga on September 10, that Government had committed up to $6 million pa’anga from its $15 million National Emergency Funds, for the distribution.

He confirmed at this stage 27 victims families had not filed any civil claims with the Supreme Court, and so they could receive $80,000 per head as soon as next week from the Treasury. However, to date 30 civil claims had been made against Government, and it was up to the families whether they wanted to discontinue.

The 30 claims are for 40 lives and made by 57 persons at the Supreme Court.

The Minister said that if they discontinued their claims with the court, they could then receive the funds. However, Government was also trying to identify the rightful next of kin of the victims, who could receive the funds.

The Minister said the handout was intended for all 74 victims but those that had made their claims on behalf of their members would have to talk with their legal counsel about their situation.

He said this initiative has been Government’s intention since the sinking disaster because the Shipping Corporation of Polynesia is a Government entity.

 



15 Sep 2010

2010 National Womens Football Team

TFA MEDIA RELEASE
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Tuesday 14 September 2010
Tonga Names National Women’s Team.
A team of 22 talented women footballers will represent Tonga in the Oceania Football Confederations (OFC) Women’s Nations Cup.
The FIFA qualifying tournament is scheduled to kick off on 28 September to 8 October 2010 and will be staged at Auckland’s North Habour Stadium in Albany.
This announcement follows months of tireless preparations, getting the team into shape and according the national coach, Kilifi Uele, his squad is ready.
“We have about two weeks to go, but I am pleased with the team’s progress so far. Our Final fitness test will be next week and the girls are gradually coming to the peak of their fitness level” Uele said.
Although Coach Uele is not revealing much, the team consists mostly of experienced players, who represented the country at the OFC Women’s World Cup Qualifier in 2007 with some fresh blood integrated from the National U20 squad.
In announcing the National Women’s Football team, Adelaide Tuivailala, Head of Women’s Football said she is grateful for the support render by the parents and guardians of team members.
“I’d like to thank all parents, guardians and families of the girls who have been very supportive during our preparation in allowing their girls to be part of the training squad. Now it is up to the girls to do us proud and I wish them all the best for the tournament” Tuivailala said.
Tonga is among eight regional countries vying to represent Oceania at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Germany next year. Tonga are in pool B alongside Solomon Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, while pool A includes tournament favourites New Zealand, Cook Islands, Tahiti, and Vanuatu.
 
2010 National Womens Team.
 
Number Position First Name Surname Popular Name: Club
1 GK MELE.  T. LIKILIKI LUPE NUKU’ALOFA  ELEVEN
2 DF KULIA FILO SOFIA MARIST  FC
3 DF EMELITA MOALA   LOTOHA’APAI FC
4 DF ANNE MARIE TAUKAPO   MARIST FC
5 DF KIANA. T. MU’AMOHOLEVA   LAPAHA  FC
6 MF ATELAITE MANU LAITE SI’I KAIMAI  FC
7 MF FOLOLENI SIALE   KOLOFO’OU  FC
8 MF MELE SOAKAI   LAPAHA  FC
9 MF PENATETI FEKE PIUINGI KAIMAI  FC
10 FW HEILALA LOTO’ANIU   MARIST  FC
11 FW LUANA. S. FATAI KETI NUKU’ALOFA  ELEVEN
12 MF NEOMAI TUPOU   NUKU’ALOFA  ELEVEN
13 MF MATELITA MISINALE LITA MARIST  FC
14 MF ESETA VI   MARIST  FC
15 MF PAULINE TONGA   TONGA  HIGH  SCHOOL
16 FW FEKE VASI   KAIMAI  FC
17 DF BUCCILEA ONGOLEA   LAPAHA  FC
18 DF ALAMONI VUNGAMOEAHI KONI MARIST  FC
19 DF UNGATEA TU’IVAILALA TEA NUKU’ALOFA  ELEVEN
20 DF OLIVE MATEIALONA   NUKU’ALOFA ELEVEN
21 GK TANGIMAUSIA MA’AFU   LAPAHA  FC
22 GK SIAILA LA’AKULU   LOTOHA’APAI  FC

Team Officials

Function

First Name Surname Popular Name Nationality
TEAM  MANAGER SAANE LATUNIPULU    TONGA
HEAD  COACH KILIFI UELE    TONGA
ASST. COAH PENIELI MOA    TONGA
TRAINER UINITA AMANAKI    TONGA  


















25 Aug 2010

Tongan selected to be peace pioneer in international youth project

The Tonga Chronicle

25-YEAR-OLD Katrina Ma’u of Tonga has been selected as one of thirty-five young participants in the 2010 Nkabom Commonwealth Youth Leadership Programme.

Katrina, who is currently pursuing an MA in Human Rights and International Politics from the University of Glasgow, is an ardent youth activist. Beatingstiff competition from over 500 other international applicants; she has emerged as her country’s sole representative in a group comprising 28 diverse nationalities.

The Nkabom Programme is a flagship project of the Royal Commonwealth Society, the oldest and largest NGO devoted to Commonwealth affairs. The word Nkabom(pronounced ink-a-bom) means ‘coming together’ I parts of Ghana where the programme was first held in 2004.

In September 2010, thirty five young people aged between 18 and 25 from around the world will gather in Kigali, Rwanda for an interactive 10 day programme focusing on international understanding, peace building and conflict resolution skills. Rwanda, which is the Commonwealth’s newest member state where the average s 18 years will be an ideal setting for an initiative that propagates the potential of young people to be agents of peace and development.

Katrina Ma’u said: “I am delighted to have been offered a place to the programme, especially given its focus on peace and conflict resolution. Building upon peace programmes requires time, energy, and taking initiative.”

RCS Youth Programme Manager, Claire Anholt said: “The standard of applications received this year has been outstanding. The knowledge, experience and perspective that Katrina will bring to the programme will, I am sure, empower her fellow participants to promote peace within their own communities and in the wider world.”
















06 Sep 2010

Tongan swimmer ready for Commonwealth Games

20100906_amini_fonua.jpg

matangitonga.to

TONGA will be represented in swimming for the first time since 1946 at the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games in October by Amini Fonua a 20 year old currently on a swimming scholarship to Texas A&M University.

Amini has been swimming since age of seven years old and recently competed for Tonga in the 8th Oceania Championships in Samoa in late June. Amini won the 50m breaststroke and was placed third in the 50m Butterfly and third in the 100, Breaststroke.

Amini trains on a swimming scholarship out of Texas A&M University in College Station Texas. His recent winnings at the Oceania Games would place Amini 7th and 9th at the Commonwealth Games (100m Breaststroke and 50m Breaststroke) according to FINA World rankings.

Amini also represented Texas A&M at the 2009 and 2010 National Collegiate Championships in both Texas and Ohio.

He is the son of Sione and Julie Fonua of Ponsonby, Auckland, New Zealand, and a 2008 graduate of Western Springs College in Auckland.

Amini will be accompanied to Delhi by the Secretary of the Tonga Swimming Association and the Vice President of the Tonga National Olympic Committee Michael O’Shannassy.



06 Sep 2010

TonFoot takes on DigiTV prime channel

TFA MEDIA RELEASE

TonFootDigiTV resized.png
Tonga Football Association’s (TFA) television show, TonFoot, makes its debut on DigiTV prime channel, Digi Entertainment, on Tuesday this week at 17:30 local time.
The move is welcomed by TFA’s General Secretary, ‘Ahongalu Fusimalohi, following a partnership between Digicel Tonga and TFA in promoting grassroots football in the Kingdom.  
“We are privileged to have the full support of Digicel Tonga as we drive to introduce our grassroots program nationwide in encouraging a healthy and active life for all Tongans” Fusimalohi said.
He added, “Digicel Tonga has done a great deal in promoting football in the country, in particular, the full coverage of FIFA World Cup 2010 and continues to provide international football match coverage to viewers, and we look forward to further strengthen this initiative by providing local content with TonFoot” Fusimalohi said.
DigiTV is excited to participate in the coverage of TonFoot, according to Manager, Marc Santos.
On behalf of DigiTV let me confirm that we are committed to providing as much airtime as possible to such an exciting development” Santos said.
“ I can confirm DigiTV will be broadcasting the 30 minute “TonFoot” show every Tuesday evening at 17:30pm on our prime channel, Digi Entertainment and hope to encourage the great game of Football here in the Kingdom of Tonga to young and old” Santos added.
According to TFA Media Officer and TonFoot producer, Tia Soakai, this has given TonFoot new heights.
“DigiTV airtime is certainly an early Christmas present for TonFoot and I am glad we are able to expand our viewership and maintain our presence on the local media scene. Its always rewarding to have such great support from a great partner and I would like to thank the DigiTV management” Soakai said.
TonFoot currently airs on the local free to air channel on Television Tonga’s TV1 at 7:30pm Thursdays and with the new partnership, DigiTV viewers can also enjoy the magazine style program on the Digi Entertainment channel 1 every Tuesdays at 5:30 pm.




10 Sep 2010

DRAW 5 Results & Ranking – 2010 High School Competition?

TFA PRESS RELEASE
2010 HSC Winners U20 Boys Division Atele.jpg
Tonga College has made their mark on the 2010 High School Competition in the U20 and U17 Boys Finals on Friday 10 September, claiming the top spot for both divisions.

Tonga College U20 Boys defeated 2009 champions, ‘Apifo’ou College 2-0 in a very entertaining match that left supporters roaring from the side lines.
Both teams took on the field with their eyes set on the top spot, put on a tight first half with a handful of brilliant saves by Tonga Colleges Goal Keeper, ‘Amato Hehea (Captain).

Apifo’ou had a strong defensive game but just could not stop the boys in red from putting scores on the board at the 47th minute of the match by Oliveti Vai and followed soon after by the man of the match ‘Afa Filimoe’atu at 52 minute.

The U17 Boys final was a nail biting match between Tonga College and Tailulu College that spilled over to extra time. Tonga College boys managed to secure their fate at the final whistle 4-2 to take home the title.
Halftime 1-1
Full time 2-2
Extra time 4-2

In the play offs for the third spot in both divisions, Tupou college lost by default giving the U17 Boys 3rd spot to ‘Apifo’ou College and U20 Boys third position to Takuilau College.

The rest of the divisions, which includes U14 Boys and the Girls competition will have their semifinals this Friday 17 September.

2010 High School Competition has a total pool prize of $6,300 pa’anga. 

Results and ranking attached

In other leagues, 2010 Major league season will kick off on 23 October 2010. Club registrations closes on 25 September 2010. Teams are kindly reminded to register now if they have not done so, to the TFA Competition Department.

Thank you for your continuos support