Women in Pelehake’s Kapakau Tatangi and Vaomapa communities have successfully completed the first round of sowing in new communal gardens.
MORDI Tonga Trust is empowering women’s groups in Pelehake to establish communal vegetable gardens in its commitment to rural development. These initiatives aim to bolster food security, enhance nutrition, and provide income opportunities.
The Kapakau Tatangi and Vaomapa community groups have recently completed their initial sowing phase, marking a milestone in the project. MORDI Tonga staff have been instrumental, offering hands-on training in seed sowing, garden planning, and plant care through to the transplanting stage.
“These communal gardens are more than just food sources—they are spaces of learning, cooperation, and empowerment,” MORDI Tonga stated. “Women are equipped with practical skills to improve household nutrition, generate income, and strengthen local food systems.”
This initiative is part of a broader collaboration involving the Government of Tonga, IFAD, Australian Aid, NZ Aid, ACIAR, and Rotary NZ World Community Service Ltd, all working together to strengthen resilient Tongan communities.
The communal gardens not only provide fresh produce but also serve as educational hubs, fostering cooperation and resilience among participants. By equipping women with agricultural skills, the project contributes to improved household nutrition and economic stability.
MORDI Tonga’s efforts align with the Tonga Rural Innovation Project Phase II, which has seen the establishment of numerous community nurseries and home gardens across the nation.
These projects have been key in enhancing food security and promoting sustainable livelihoods, particularly in the wake of recent natural disasters.
