The Tonga National Visual Impairment Association (TNVIA) is providing basic life skills training for the blind, backed by Australian aid.
Operating from its Pea headquarters, TNVIA offers weekly sessions in braille literacy, music, cooking, and sewing. These programs aim to empower individuals with visual impairments and their carers, encouraging independence and community inclusion.
The Australian Government’s support has been instrumental in sustaining these initiatives. Australia is Tonga’s largest development partner, contributing to various sectors including education and health.
TNVIA, established in 2014, has grown to over 60 members and continues to expand its reach across Tonga. The association also benefits from partnerships with organisations like The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which recently donated a 16-passenger van to assist with transportation needs.
Founder ‘Ofeina Leka, who lost his sight at age 11, expressed gratitude for the support: “I am so thankful for [the Church’s] support… This is a blessing for us.”
TNVIA invites all Tongans who are blind or visually impaired, along with their carers, to participate in the training programs. For more information, contact +676 7747065 or +676 8749671.