Tonga will receive NZ$2.8 million to enhance climate-resilient agriculture.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters made the announcement today at the Lapaha Packhouse while in Tonga as part of his Pacific Mission delegation.
The funding is part of the new Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research Pacific Climate-Smart Agriculture and Sustainable Land-use Partnership.
The initiative aims to strengthen Tonga’s efforts in improving soil health, mapping land use, and preserving culturally important plants like the national heilala flower.
“New Zealand is proud to continue its partnership with Tonga on improving land-use to build livelihoods and economic resilience,” Mr Peters said.
Tonga is one of six Pacific nations—alongside the Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue, Samoa and Vanuatu—partnering with Manaaki Whenua scientists. Each country will set its own goals to develop climate-smart farming and land-use practices.
Last month, the Lapaha Packhouse in Tonga received its Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification.
Mr Peters’ visit to Tonga is part of a wider regional tour to strengthen diplomatic and development ties across the Pacific.
