A new workshop is equipping women with handicraft skills to boost income and preserve culture.
Langafonua ‘a Fafine Tonga launched the “Empowering Women in Handicraft Production for Economic Empowerment and Cultural Preservation” program this yesterday in Nuku’alofa, marking 72 years since its founding in 1953. The initiative, co-funded by the Australian High Commission and the Commonwealth of Learning, aims to support women, girls, and persons with disabilities from marginalised communities.
The workshop provides training in traditional Tongan crafts such as tapa cloth and woven kiekie, alongside sessions on legal rights and domestic violence prevention. The goal is to enhance economic independence while safeguarding Tonga’s cultural heritage.
“We want all Tongans to thrive, assert their rights, earn income, and protect Tonga’s cultural heritage,” the Australian High Commission stated. “Empowering women is essential to ending violence and building a safer future for all.”
The event was attended by HRH Princess Sinaitakala Tuku’aho, along with dignitaries from Australia, New Zealand, the UK, China, and the US, reflecting broad international support for women’s empowerment in the Pacific.
Langafonua ‘a Fafine Tonga, established by Queen Salote Tupou III, continues its mission to uplift Tongan women through cultural and economic initiatives.
