Fale Alea Awards Certificates for Tree Planting Initiative

The Legislative Assembly of Tonga’s Standing Committee on Environment and Climate Change hosted a special ceremony yesterday to present certificates for its Tree Planting Initiative, with support from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nukuʻalofa.

Nine recipients—including individuals, youth groups, women’s groups, and community organizations from Tongatapu—were recognized for their successful grant applications, which support the Committee’s environmental goals.

This initiative is part of the Committee’s ongoing commitment to climate action, reflecting Tonga’s vulnerability to climate change and its pledge under the Paris Agreement to plant one million trees by 2030. In collaboration with the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications (MEIDECC), the program aims to boost local nursery capacity and ensure a sustainable supply of seedlings.

Hon. Huʻakavameiliku, a member of the Committee, expressed deep gratitude to the People’s Republic of China for their generous contribution of over TOP $130,000 to the project. He noted that the support is a testament to the strong partnership between the two countries, especially in the area of climate resilience.

Chinese Embassy Counsellor Mr. Ruan Dewen also spoke at the ceremony, affirming China’s commitment to global climate efforts. He highlighted the importance of collective action and reaffirmed China’s support for Tonga—not only through this initiative but also through projects focused on renewable energy and sustainability.

Tongatapu 6 MP, Hon. Dulcie Tei, delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the crucial role nurseries play in environmental protection and in securing a resilient future for Tonga.

Under the program, applicants could receive grants of up to TOP $10,000 to establish or expand tree and plant nurseries. More than 100 applications were received from across Tongatapu, ‘Eua, Ha’apai, and Vava’u. The following nine recipients from Tongatapu were awarded funding:

• ‘Efeso Community (Siaʻatoutai)
• ‘Anau Melie ki he Kaha’u (‘Utulau)
• ‘Ofa Masila (Fangaloto)
• Youth Green Campaign (Fasi)
• Tahi Nonga Youth (Pahu)
• Papa’s Lights Gardening and Consultation (Fanga)
• Fokilelei Nursery (Malapo)
• Siosi’ana Toluta’u (Haʻateiho)
• Toakase Talau (Tofoa)

Six additional recipients from the outer islands will be announced soon.