JICA Tonga Office

Malo Tupou Food Court

SATREPS Mission Advances Volcanic Tsunami Research and Capacity Building in Tonga

Under the SATREPS Project for Disaster Risk Reduction of Widespread Volcanic Hazards in Southwest Pacific Countries, Japanese researchers, in collaboration with the Tonga Geological Services (TGS), conducted a field survey of volcanic tsunami deposits, which provide evidence of past tsunami events, on Tongatapu Island and the Ha'apai Islands (Lifuka and Fo'a Islands) from 24 July to 4 August 2026.

As part of the mission, a seminar was held at TGS on 5 August to share research findings on the history of volcanic tsunamis, including preliminary results from the recent survey. The seminar was attended by 14 TGS staff members, led by TGS Director Mr. Rennie Vaiomounga, and generated lively and productive discussions.

On 6 August, the team visited the Tonga Meteorological Service (TMS) to strengthen technical capacity in volcanic tsunami modelling. They also provided support for the installation and configuration of tsunami modelling software on TMS computers, contributing to the development of a volcanic tsunami warning system in Tonga.

Several TGS and TMS staff members had previously participated in a tsunami modelling training course held in Japan in June 2026 and had already acquired relevant knowledge and skills. During these sessions, they further enhanced their practical expertise by applying the skills they learned in Japan.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to Dr. Takashi Ishizawa (Tohoku University), Dr. Tetsuro Sato (Kochi University), and Mr. Koki Nakata (The University of Tokyo) for their valuable contributions to the project.

https://www.eri.u-tokyo.ac.jp/ichihalab/SATREPS/

SATREPS (Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development) is a Japanese government-supported program that promotes international joint research between Japan and developing countries to address global challenges. The program is jointly implemented by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) or the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED), and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Mālō e lelei from Tonga!

My name is Yuka Oku, a Japanese language teacher from Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. I am delighted to be living and working in Tonga.

Since arriving in May, I have thoroughly enjoyed experiencing Tongan culture, including touring Tongatapu, attending church services, listening to beautiful music, and taking part in the vibrant Heilala Festival. Every experience has helped me gain a deeper appreciation of Tonga and its people.

I am currently assigned to the Ministry of Education, where I will be working on the revision of the Japanese language syllabus. This year is especially meaningful as it marks the 40th anniversary of Japanese language education as a second foreign language in Tongan schools. This remarkable achievement is the result of the dedication of former JICA volunteers and Tongan Japanese language teachers who have supported the program over many years.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this long-standing partnership between Tonga and Japan. I will do my best to support the continued development of Japanese language education and help inspire future generations of students.

Thank you for the warm welcome. I look forward to learning, sharing, and working together with everyone in Tonga.

Mālō 'aupito! 🙏✨

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Mālō e lelei! 👋🏓

My name is Kikuko Okamoto, and I am a JICA Volunteer from Japan currently working in Tonga with the Tonga Table Tennis Federation.

Every day, I have the opportunity to work with people with disabilities, coach para-athletes and junior players, and visit schools to introduce more children to the exciting world of table tennis.

One of the things I love most about this sport is that it brings people together. No matter your age, background, or ability, everyone can enjoy the game, learn new skills, and have fun.

My goal during my time in Tonga is simple: to help more people discover the joy of table tennis and support the creation of a society where everyone feels included and valued.

Thank you to everyone who has welcomed me so warmly. I am excited for the journey ahead! 🇯🇵❤️🇹🇴

Pre-Departure Briefing Conducted for JICA Training Participants

The JICA Tonga Office recently conducted a pre-departure briefing session for four participants who will be travelling to Japan to attend various training programs funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The briefing aimed to familiarize participants with what to expect during their stay in Japan, including cultural practices, daily life, program requirements, and travel arrangements. It also provided an opportunity for participants to ask questions and receive practical guidance before their departure.

The participants, all civil servants with the Government of Tonga, will attend the following courses:

✅Ms. Sisilia Ahio (Ministry of Internal Affairs)
Promotion of Employment of Persons with Disabilities
Duration: 3 weeks

✅Mr. Eddy Fakahua (Ministry of Education and Training)
Upgrading the Pre-Service Primary Teacher Education and Training
Duration: 5 weeks

✅Ms. Kelela Tuitupou (Ministry of Justice)
Management of Correctional Facilities and Rehabilitation of Offenders
Duration: 1 month

✅Ms. Lesieli Manuofetoa (Ministry of Finance)
Digital Economy: AI Tools, Governance and Policy under the Japan-Singapore Partnership Programme for the 21st Century (JSPP21)
Duration: 1 week

The participants are scheduled to depart Tonga between 15 and 28 August to commence their respective training programs in Japan. These courses will provide valuable opportunities to learn from Japan's experiences and best practices while enhancing professional skills and knowledge in their respective sectors.

JICA remains committed to supporting human resource development in Tonga through training opportunities that strengthen individual capacities and contribute to the country's sustainable development. Upon their return, participants are expected to share their learning and practical experiences with their respective ministries and colleagues.

The JICA Tonga Office wishes all participants a safe journey and a successful training experience in Japan.

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Mālō e tau lava!

My name is Shinnosuke Akiyama, and I am a JICA Volunteer (Veterinarian) with the MAFF Livestock Division in Tokomololo.

Since arriving in Tonga in May, I have had the privilege of experiencing beautiful Tongan traditions such as the Heilala Festival and Kaipola. These experiences have helped me appreciate the warmth, culture, and hospitality of the Tongan people, and I have already fallen in love with Tonga!

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to volunteer in this wonderful country. During my time here, I will do my best to support the MAFF clinic and contribute to improving animal health in Tonga.

Mālō 'aupito for your warm welcome! 🇹🇴🤝🇯🇵🐄🐐🐕

Meet Itsumi Osawa: Sharing Japanese Language and Culture in Tonga

Mālō e lelei! My name is Itsumi Osawa, and I am from Hokkaido, Japan. I am delighted to be living and working in Tonga as a Japanese language teacher at Tonga National University (TNU).

At TNU, I train students who aspire to become Japanese language teachers and support the development of Japanese language education in Tonga. In addition, I assist Tupou College, a local boys' high school and other secondary schools in the city, helping students learn Japanese and discover more about Japan.

Drawing on my teaching experience in Japan, I hope to support local teachers and students while fostering a greater interest in the Japanese language and culture. I believe that language learning opens doors to new opportunities, friendships, and cultural understanding.

At the same time, I am eager to learn more about Tonga, its people, traditions, and way of life. My goal is not only to share Japan with the people of Tonga, but also to bring the wonderful stories and beauty of Tonga back to Japan and share them with my future students.

I look forward to meeting many people, building meaningful connections, and enjoying this exciting new chapter of my life in Tonga. Thank you for welcoming me, and I hope to learn and grow together with the community.

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Awesome opportunity for Ms. Hahano Vailea from MAFF! Wishing her all the best on this exciting 8-month training journey!