JICA Tonga Office

KENSHUIN VIEW (voice of ex-trainees)

Name: Ms. Ma’ata MAFI

Ministry: Prime Minister’s Office

Course: Disaster Risk Reduction for Sustainability and Resilience (Small Islands)

Center: Shikoku International Centre

Duration: 15th Jan – 25th Feb 2026

🇯🇵✨ Grateful for an Amazing Learning Journey in Japan ✨🇹🇴

“I would like to sincerely express my deepest appreciation to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for providing me with the incredible opportunity to participate in the six-week training program on Disaster Risk Reduction for Sustainability and Resilience for Small Island Developing States in Kochi Prefecture, Japan.

This experience was truly enriching and transformative. Throughout the program, I gained valuable knowledge, practical tools, and effective strategies in disaster risk reduction, particularly in building resilience within vulnerable island communities like Tonga. I also developed a deeper understanding of the importance of disaster preparedness, proactive planning, early warning systems, and community-based approaches in reducing risks and protecting lives and livelihoods.

Beyond the professional learning, I had the privilege of experiencing Japan’s unique culture, discipline, hospitality, and strong sense of community. It was inspiring to see how these values are reflected in the country's approach to disaster preparedness and resilience.

This journey has not only strengthened my professional capacity but has also motivated me to contribute more effectively to resilience-building and sustainable development efforts in Tonga. I am grateful for the knowledge gained, the friendships made, and the unforgettable memories created along the way.

And honestly, since returning home, I've been missing Japan's cool weather and healthy food! 😊

Arigatou Gozaimasu, JICA, for this remarkable opportunity and for your continued support in empowering Small Island Developing States. ” ▪



🇯🇵🇹🇴

📌 Staff Blog【Life of a JICA staff member overseas 🇹🇴 Tonga】

The Kingdom of Tonga,
a beautiful country made up of islands in the South Pacific 🏝️

It’s been four months since she was assigned here
as a JICA overseas staff member…

While keeping busy with her daily work,
she shares the little surprises of life here,
the depth of the local culture,
and the peaceful, laid-back lifestyle✒️
https://www.jica.go.jp/english/information/blog/1579711_24156.html

Yesterday, our friends had a wonderful time getting creative and making their own jewelry at Vavaʻu Public Library! ✨📿

Activities like these are a great way for children to express themselves, learn new skills, and have fun together in a welcoming environment 😀

Thank you to everyone who joined us—we loved seeing your creativity shine! We look forward to many more fun afternoons of learning, crafting, and making memories at the library ❤️

🌺A Day of Cultural Immersion at Ancient Tonga🌺

Today, four of our new Volunteers had the incredible opportunity to take part in a Tongan cultural orientation at Ancient Tonga—a truly enriching experience that brought them closer to the traditions, knowledge, and spirit of Tonga.

🔥 Fei ‘Umu (Traditional Earth Oven)
They started the day by making ‘umu (earth oven), working as a team to prepare this unique cooking style by heating the stones first and carefully arrange the food. It was a powerful reminder of how food preparation in Tonga goes beyond cooking—it’s about community and connection.

🍲 Preparing Traditional Dishes – Lu Moa & ‘Ota Ika
From fresh ingredients to hands-on preparation, they learned how to make lu moa (chicken wrapped in taro leaves and cooked in coconut cream) and ‘ota ika (raw fish marinated in coconut and veggies). Every step was filled with meaning, showcasing the richness of Tongan cuisine and hospitality.

🥥 The Meaning of Kava & Kava Ceremony
They were also honored to learn about the cultural significance of kava—more than just a drink, it represents respect, unity, and tradition. Understanding the kava ceremony gave them deeper insight into Tongan values, hierarchy, and community bonds.

🧵 Weaving (Lālanga)
Guided by experts, the volunteers experienced weaving first-hand—an art form that requires patience, skill, and deep cultural understanding. Each weave reflects stories of family, identity, and tradition.

🌿 Making Tapa Cloth (Ngatu)
They also experienced the process of making ngatu (tapa cloth)—from pounding the bark to creating beautiful patterns and drawing. It was inspiring to witness how this practice preserves history and cultural expression.

🌱 Tongan Traditional Medicine
Another highlight was learning about Tongan traditional medicine, where natural plants are used for healing. This shared knowledge showed them the deep relationship between people, nature, and wellbeing.

👕Tongan Traditional handicraft
Also, they had the opportunity to learn how to make handwoven mats, kie-kie, and ta’ovala using a variety of natural materials. It was a fascinating experience to see how these traditional items are crafted with such skill and care.

✨ Today was more than just a learning experience—it was a meaningful journey into the heart of Tongan culture, filled with respect, gratitude, and connection.
A heartfelt mālō ‘aupito to the wonderful team at Ancient Tonga for sharing your knowledge, traditions, and warm hospitality with us. A glimpse of the Tongan culture will be treasured throughout their assignment term here in Tonga 💛

Tonga U12 football tournament encourages early development Nuku'alofa, Tonga: The Tonga Under-12 football tournament for boys and girls teams competing in grassroots matches, a sporting initiative aimed at early skills development for the players, was held at Veitongo on Saturday 23 May 2026.