El Niño is a naturally occurring climate phenomenon characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. For Tonga, El Niño conditions are typically associated with below-average rainfall, increased risk of drought, warmer temperatures, and an elevated risk of severe tropical cyclones during the cyclone season.

Current climate outlooks indicate that El Niño conditions are expected to persist over the coming months and may continue into 2027.

A drought warning has already been issued for Ha’apai, while drought alerts remain in place for Niuafo’ou, Niuatoputapu, Vava’u, Tongatapu, and ‘Eua.

Director of the Tonga Meteorological Service, Mr. Laitia Fifita, emphasized that although El Niño is a naturally occurring climate phenomenon, it can have far-reaching impacts on island nations such as Tonga, where communities rely heavily on rainfall for freshwater supplies.

He stressed the importance of early preparedness and encouraged both communities and government agencies to take proactive measures to mitigate the potential impacts of water shortages, prolonged heat, and severe weather events.

Now more than ever, it is important for the community to come together from schools, church groups, community groups to help each other during these times. While the government undertakes continued monitoring and assistance, MORDI Tonga will continue to do their part to facilitate assistance where needed.

The post Tonga Meteorological Service Declares El Niño Conditions for Tonga first appeared on MORDI Tonga.

Honouring the Leadership of Dr Seu’ula Johansson Fua

MORDI extends its deepest appreciation to Dr Seu’ula Johansson Fua, who concludes her tenure as Chairlady after seven years of distinguished leadership (2018–2025), following her earlier service as a Trustee (2011–2017). As the second woman to hold the position of Chairlady, Dr Fua’s leadership has been both historic and transformative.

Dr Fua brings a strong academic and development background, particularly in education, community empowerment, and capacity development across the Pacific. Her work has consistently centred on strengthening local knowledge systems, fostering inclusive participation, and promoting culturally grounded approaches to development. These attributes have been instrumental in guiding MORDI Tonga’s strategic direction, particularly in embedding community-driven methodologies and advancing gender and social inclusion across its programmes.

Her tenure as Chairlady has been marked by a commitment to strengthening institutional governance, enhancing partnerships, and ensuring that MORDI’s work remains responsive to the needs and aspirations of rural communities. Her legacy is reflected in the organisation’s strengthened credibility and its continued emphasis on locally led development.

Acknowledging the Foundational Contributions of Mr Anthony Ryan

MORDI also acknowledges with sincere gratitude the service of Mr Anthony Ryan, who has stepped down from the Board after an extraordinary 15 years of commitment (2009–2024). As a founding Board member, Mr Ryan has played a pivotal role in shaping the vision, governance, and operational foundations of the organisation.

His extensive experience, strategic insight, and steadfast leadership have contributed significantly to MORDI’s growth from its inception to its current standing as a leading development organisation in Tonga. His contributions have ensured strong governance systems, financial oversight, and long-term sustainability. The Board and management extend their heartfelt thanks for his enduring dedication and invaluable guidance.

Welcoming New Chair: Dr Vili ‘Apifo’ou Fuavao

Stepping into the role of Chair is Dr Vili ‘Apifo’ou Fuavao, who has served as a Board member since 2017. Dr Fuavao brings a wealth of experience in leadership, governance, and development practice, underpinned by a strong commitment to community resilience and sustainable livelihoods.

His professional background spans public service, policy engagement, and community development, equipping him with the expertise to navigate complex development challenges while maintaining a clear focus on impact at the grassroots level. Dr Fuavao’s leadership is expected to further strengthen MORDI’s strategic positioning, deepen stakeholder engagement, and enhance the organisation’s contribution to national and regional development priorities.

His tenure as Chair comes at a critical time, as MORDI continues to expand its work in climate resilience, food security, and inclusive development. His vision and leadership are anticipated to build on existing achievements while guiding the organisation toward innovative and sustainable pathways.

Welcoming Professor Steven Underhill to the Board

MORDI is also pleased to welcome Professor Steven Underhill as a new member of the Board. Professor Underhill brings extensive academic expertise in agriculture, horticulture, and value chain development, with a strong track record of applied research in Pacific contexts.

He has collaborated with MORDI Tonga on several initiatives, particularly in strengthening agricultural systems, improving market access, and supporting smallholder farmers. His work has focused on enhancing productivity, sustainability, and resilience within local food systems—areas that align closely with MORDI’s core mission.

Professor Underhill’s technical expertise and research-informed perspective will provide valuable guidance in advancing MORDI’s agricultural and livelihood programmes, particularly in the context of climate change and evolving market dynamics.

Continuity in Governance

MORDI Tonga Trust also acknowledges the continued service of Board members Mr Kaho V ‘Ofa and Ms Jennifer Tupou. Their ongoing commitment ensures continuity in governance, institutional memory, and strategic oversight as the organisation navigates this period of transition.

Looking Ahead

These Board transitions reflect both the strength of MORDI Tonga’s leadership and its commitment to adaptive, forward-looking governance. As the organisation continues to work alongside communities to build sustainable livelihoods and resilience, it does so grounded in the contributions of past leaders and guided by the vision of its new Chair and Board members.

MORDI Tonga Trust remains steadfast in its mission to empower communities, strengthen local systems, and contribute meaningfully to Tonga’s development journey.

The post Leadership announcement at MORDI Tonga Trust: Honoring Legacy, Welcoming New Stewardship first appeared on MORDI Tonga.

Ginger is a high-value crop in Tonga with strong local demand and export potential. It grows well in Tonga’s tropical climate and can provide good income for smallholder farmers. Some may find it tedious to grow due to growth time but they make the perfect choice to intercrop amongst other crops in your garden. Plant and walk away and return to a lush garden of rhizomes in a matter of months!

2. Understanding Ginger

• Ginger is grown from rhizomes (underground stems), not seeds
• It takes about 8–10 months to mature
• Thrives in warm, humid climates—perfect for Tonga

3. Choosing the Right Site

✅ Soil

• Loose, well-drained soil (sandy loam is best)
• Rich in organic matter
• Avoid waterlogged areas (ginger rots easily)

✅ Location

• Partial shade is ideal (can grow under coconut trees or agroforestry systems)
• Protected from strong winds

4. Land Preparation

Simple steps:

1. Clear weeds and debris
2. Loosen soil to about 20–30 cm deep
3. Make raised beds (about 20–30 cm high) to improve drainage
4. Mix in compost, manure, or rotted leaves

👉 Tip: In Tonga, using organic materials like coconut husk and compost improves soil fertility.

5. Planting Ginger

Selecting Planting Material

• Choose healthy, disease-free rhizomes
• Each piece should have 2–3 “eyes” (buds)

Planting Steps

1. Cut rhizomes into pieces (if large)
2. Dry in shade for 1–2 days before planting
3. Plant 5–10 cm deep
4. Space:
   • 20–30 cm between plants
   • 30–40 cm between rows

6. Mulching (Very Important!)

Cover soil with:

• Dry grass
• Banana leaves
• Coconut leaves

✅ Benefits:

• Keeps soil moist
• Reduces weeds
• Improves soil fertility

7. Watering

• Keep soil moist but not waterlogged
• Water regularly during dry periods
• Reduce watering as harvest approaches

8. Weeding and Maintenance

• Weed regularly (especially early growth stage)
• Avoid damaging roots
• Add more mulch as plants grow

9. Fertilising (Low-cost options)

Use locally available materials:

• Compost
• Animal manure (chicken, pig)
• Green leaves (mulched into soil)

👉 Apply every 4–6 weeks for better yield

10. Pest and Disease Management

Common Problems in Tonga:

• Root rot (from too much water)
• Nematodes (soil pests)

Prevention:

• Use clean planting material
• Practice crop rotation (don’t plant ginger in same spot every year)
• Ensure good drainage

11. Harvesting

⏳ Ginger is ready in:

• 8–10 months (mature ginger)
• 5–6 months (young ginger, for fresh markets)

Signs it’s ready:

• Leaves turn yellow and start drying

Harvest Steps:

1. Loosen soil carefully
2. Lift rhizomes without damaging them
3. Shake off soil

12. Post-Harvest Handling

• Wash gently
• Dry in shade
• Store in cool, dry place

👉 For selling: clean, uniform ginger gets better prices

13. Simple Tips for Success

• Start small and expand gradually
• Use organic matter—healthy soil = healthy crops
• Avoid planting in flood-prone areas
• Work with other farmers to share knowledge and planting material

14. Opportunities for Tongan Farmers

• Local markets (fresh produce)
• Value-added products (powder, dried ginger)
• Export potential (if quality standards are met)

The post Beginners guide to cultivating ginger. first appeared on MORDI Tonga.

Second Secretary (Development) at the Australian High Commission, Ms Elle Bradshaw, said the partnership with MORDI Tonga Trust helps ensure essential relief
items are in place before disasters strike. “Prepositioning supplies locally means they can be deployed quickly when communities need them most. Strong local systems,
supported by close international cooperation, make a real difference during emergencies.”

MORDI Tonga Trust CEO Mr Soane Patolo said the equipment significantly boosts Tonga’s readiness. “This support enables vital supplies to be available and positioned
for immediate use when disasters occur. We remain committed to working with Government and partners to strengthen resilience in communities across Tonga.” The supplies will be integrated into national response mechanisms, enabling rapid distribution during times of crisis. The initiative reflects the shared commitment of the
Australian Government and MORDI Tonga Trust to strengthening community resilience, enhancing disaster preparedness, and ensuring that vulnerable populations
across Tonga are better protected in the face of future emergencies.

The post Strengthening Tonga’s Humanitarian Preparedness through Prepositioned Emergency Supplies first appeared on MORDI Tonga.

A key milestone in leveraging this funding was the first annual meeting with Local Government Officials, including District and Town Officers. The purpose of this meeting was to begin discussions around development work for the year, ensuring that all planned activities are closely tied to each district’s newly updated Community Development Plans. By grounding development planning in these updated plans, MORDI Tonga ensures that interventions reflect the real needs, priorities, and aspirations of local communities.

At the heart of this approach is a people-centric philosophy. Development challenges—such as food insecurity, infrastructure gaps, and limited livelihood opportunities—cannot be addressed through top-down solutions alone. Engaging communities directly allows development programs to identify issues at their core, understand local context, and design solutions that are practical, culturally appropriate, and sustainable. Local Government Officials play a vital role in this process, facilitating community engagement, supporting local leadership, and mobilizing residents to actively participate in shaping their own development.

Through the combination of new funding, strategic planning with local authorities, and people-centered approaches, MORDI Tonga is well-positioned to deliver meaningful impact in rural communities. Targeted interventions will not only improve access to essential services and livelihoods but will also empower communities to take ownership of their development journey, creating sustainable change for the long term.

This year marks a renewed commitment to development that starts with people—listening, engaging, and working alongside communities to build stronger, resilient, and thriving rural Tonga.

The post Empowering Rural Communities in Tonga in 2026 first appeared on MORDI Tonga.

Research consistently shows that the physical classroom environment—including furniture—plays an important role in students’ ability to engage, focus, and learn. In a study conducted among elementary students in Ahvaz, Iran, researchers found that appropriate educational furniture had a statistically significant positive impact on both learning and academic achievement (Gilavand, 2016). This suggests that when desks and chairs are suited to students’ needs, children are better positioned to succeed in their lessons.

More broadly, classroom furniture that fits students’ bodies and supports good posture also contributes to physical comfort and cognitive engagement. Improperly sized or poorly designed seating can lead to discomfort, postural strain, and distraction, which reduces the amount of time students can concentrate on learning tasks

(studentscholarships.org, 2025). Conversely, ergonomic seating and desks encourage neutral posture and comfort, helping students remain attentive and engaged throughout the school day.

Another body of research highlights how classroom design including seating arrangements—can influence a child’s experience of school and even their academic performance. For example, evidence from a large international study has shown that elements of the physical environment can explain a significant portion of variation in learning outcomes among primary school students in China, reinforcing that physical classroom features—including furniture—matter for cognitive development and academic achievement (Yang et al., 2023).

The collaboration between Rotary New Zealand and MORDI Tonga directly responds to these insights. By identifying schools where classrooms lack basic furniture, the project recognizes that learning begins with the right environment. Simple resources like desks and chairs can:

• Support healthy posture and comfort for young learners
• Reduce distractions caused by physical discomfort
• Improve students’ ability to focus and participate
• Enhance the overall learning experience

Importantly, the donation of desks and chairs is not just about providing items—it is about creating equitable learning spaces where all children have the opportunity to succeed.

As surveys continue and furniture distributions are planned, this partnership stands as a strong example of how targeted support—grounded in evidence and community collaboration—can make tangible improvements to education. When students are seated comfortably and supported by quality classroom environments, research shows that they are better able to concentrate, engage, and achieve academically.

References

Gilavand, A. (2016). The impact of educational furniture of schools on learning and academic achievement of students at elementary level. International Journal of Medical Research & Health Sciences, 5(7), 343‑348.

The importance of ergonomic classroom furniture for student health. (2025). StudentsScholarships.org.

Yang, Y. et al. (2023). Investigating user feedback for learning space design in primary schools of Shandong Province, China. Buildings, 14(8), 2467.

The post Making Classroom Spaces Work for Every Learner: The Importance of Desks and Chairs in Primary Schools first appeared on MORDI Tonga.

The Mapal system utilizes soilless troughs and integrated drainage channels to regulate water and nutrient delivery during early plant development. This approach allows for precise control of germination conditions, resulting in higher survival rates and uniform seedling growth. The system also captures and recycles excess water and nutrients, reducing resource loss and improving operational efficiency. These features are particularly relevant in Tonga’s context, where soil variability, climate exposure, and limited access to agricultural inputs constrain consistent crop production.

The nursery functions as a central propagation facility, enabling MORDI Tonga to produce high-quality seedlings for distribution to rural households. This addresses a critical constraint within community farming systems: access to reliable planting material. Poor germination and uneven seedling development are common barriers that reduce productivity and discourage sustained engagement in agriculture. By providing healthy, well-established seedlings, the nursery reduces early-stage crop failure and improves overall production outcomes at the household level.

This intervention contributes directly to strengthening rural livelihoods. Reliable seedling supply improves planting success, increases food availability, and enhances household capacity to generate income from surplus production. It also enables more efficient use of land and labour, particularly for vulnerable and land-constrained households, by reducing the risks associated with crop establishment.

In addition, the nursery strengthens institutional capacity within MORDI Tonga to support long-term agricultural development. Centralized propagation allows for planned, timely distribution aligned with seasonal planting cycles and community needs. It also provides a mechanism for rapid response following climate-related shocks, supporting recovery through the timely provision of planting materials.

From a rural development perspective, the nursery represents a foundational investment in agricultural resilience. It strengthens local seed systems, reduces dependence on external supply chains, and improves the sustainability of community-level food production. By integrating efficient water and nutrient management technologies, the system also promotes resource conservation and climate-adaptive farming practices.

Overall, the establishment of the Mapal-based nursery enhances MORDI Tonga’s capacity to deliver consistent, high-quality agricultural support to rural communities. It provides a scalable model for improving seed propagation, strengthening food security, and supporting sustainable livelihood development across Tonga’s rural sector.

The post Strengthening Rural Seed Systems through Controlled Nursery Technology first appeared on MORDI Tonga.

CEO Kilisitina represented the Minister of Finance – Hon. Lataifaingata’a Tangimana – on behalf of the Kingdom of Tonga, while the IFAD Asia Pacific Region (APR) Regional Director – Ms. Reehana Raza in singing the agreement. This event reflects a continued commitment to supporting the people of the Kingdom of Tonga in the face of growing climate and economic challenges. Building on the successes of previous phases, TRIP III marks the continuation of a long-standing partnership focused on sustainable, community-led development.

Building on a Proven Foundation

Over the past decade, the Tonga Rural Innovation Project has played a central role in transforming rural communities. From improving access to essential infrastructure to strengthening agricultural productivity and supporting livelihoods, TRIP has demonstrated the power of placing communities at the centre of their own development.

TRIP III will build on this foundation, expanding support to communities across Tonga’s island groups. The project will continue to strengthen climate-resilient agriculture, improve community infrastructure, and enhance economic opportunities for rural households.

Implementation of the project will once again be led by MORDI Tonga Trust, whose deep connection to rural communities and proven community-driven development model has been instrumental in delivering lasting impact under previous phases.

Responding to a Changing Climate

For Tonga, climate change is not a distant threat. It is a daily reality. Rising sea levels, prolonged droughts, and increasingly severe cyclones continue to affect food production, water access, and livelihoods.

TRIP III directly responds to these challenges by strengthening climate resilience at both the household and community level. This includes supporting farmers to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices, improving water systems, and investing in resilient community infrastructure.

These investments will help ensure that communities are better prepared not only to withstand climate shocks but also to recover more quickly when disasters occur.

Investing in People and Livelihoods

At its heart, TRIP III is an investment in people. Rural communities remain the backbone of Tonga’s food systems, cultural identity, and local economy. By strengthening livelihoods, the project supports long-term economic stability and self-reliance.

The project will create opportunities for farmers to improve productivity, diversify income sources, and access markets. It will also support inclusive participation, ensuring that women, youth, and vulnerable households are actively involved in shaping and benefiting from development initiatives.

The emphasis on community ownership ensures that investments reflect real needs and priorities identified by the communities themselves.

Strengthening National Capacity and Partnerships

The signing of TRIP III represents more than a financial agreement. It reflects trust in Tonga’s institutions, communities, and development partners. It reinforces the strong partnership between IFAD, the Government of Tonga, and MORDI Tonga Trust, and highlights the importance of long-term collaboration in achieving sustainable development outcomes.

Capacity building will remain a central component of the project, strengthening local leadership, technical skills, and institutional systems. This ensures that the benefits of the project extend far beyond its duration.

A Vision for the Future

As Tonga looks toward the future, TRIP III offers a clear vision of resilient communities, strengthened livelihoods, and sustainable rural development.

The project represents continuity and progress. It builds on the lessons and successes of the past while responding to the urgent challenges of today. It reinforces the principle that development is most effective when communities themselves are at the centre of planning and implementation.

For MORDI Tonga Trust, TRIP III represents an opportunity to continue walking alongside communities, supporting their aspirations, strengthening resilience, and helping shape a more secure and sustainable future for Tonga.

With this agreement now in place, a new chapter begins. One grounded in partnership, resilience, and the enduring strength of Tonga’s rural communities.

The post A New Chapter for Rural Development: TRIP III Agreement Signed to Strengthen Tonga’s Climate Resilience and Livelihoods first appeared on MORDI Tonga.

The Manaaki short-term training programme supports mid- and senior-level professionals from Pacific Island countries to strengthen technical and managerial skills that contribute to national and community development. The infrastructure project management training focuses on planning, budgeting, procurement, risk management, and monitoring of infrastructure projects, with a strong emphasis on climate resilience and development contexts.

For MORDI Tonga, this training is highly relevant. The organisation implements a range of rural development initiatives that depend on resilient infrastructure, including water systems, agricultural facilities, community buildings, and climate-smart livelihood interventions. Strengthening internal capacity in infrastructure project management enhances MORDI’s ability to design, oversee, and deliver infrastructure investments that are sustainable, accountable, and responsive to community needs.

Mr Pomana’s upskilling will contribute to improved financial governance, project oversight, and risk management across MORDI’s programmes. It will also strengthen the organisation’s capacity to work with government agencies, development partners, and communities to ensure infrastructure projects are aligned with national standards, donor requirements, and local priorities.

In the context of increasing climate risks, resilient infrastructure is essential for safeguarding livelihoods, food security, and essential services in rural communities. By investing in professional development, MORDI Tonga is reinforcing its role as a trusted implementing partner and community-focused organisation.

Mr Pomana’s participation in the Manaaki training represents a strategic step toward strengthening institutional capacity and advancing sustainable, climate-resilient development for Tonga’s rural communities

The post Building Capacity for Resilient Infrastructure: Manaaki Infrastructure Project Management Training first appeared on MORDI Tonga.

Over recent years, a growing network of meteorological tools has been installed across the country, including automatic weather stations, weather radar systems, and digital alert platforms. Among these, stations linked with organizations such as MORDI Tonga Trust contribute valuable real-time data to national forecasting systems. These tools measure rainfall, wind speed, temperature, and humidity, helping the Tonga Meteorological Service to track cyclones, heavy rainfall events, drought conditions, and extreme winds.

This monitoring infrastructure forms the backbone of Tonga’s early warning systems. By detecting hazards before they escalate, authorities can issue warnings that give communities crucial time to prepare. Farmers can secure crops and livestock, fishers can avoid dangerous conditions at sea, and households can take protective measures to safeguard lives and assets.

However, technology alone does not build resilience. What makes Tonga’s early warning system increasingly effective is the collaboration across sectors and institutions. Government agencies such as the Tonga Meteorological Service and the National Emergency Management Office work alongside telecommunications providers, regional organizations, and development partners to ensure warnings are generated and disseminated rapidly. Digital platforms such as mobile alert systems and cell broadcast technology ensure that warnings reach even remote communities, including people without internet access.

Civil society organizations, including MORDI Tonga Trust, play a critical bridging role between scientific information and community action. Through community development planning, farmer groups, and district coordination, MORDI supports communities to understand and act on weather and climate information. This translation of technical data into practical decisions is essential for people-centered resilience.

Cross-sector collaboration is particularly important in rural contexts, where climate risks intersect with food security, health, water, and livelihoods. Agricultural extension services use weather data to advise farmers on planting and harvesting. Water and sanitation actors use rainfall and flood forecasts to protect infrastructure and drinking water sources. Health services use hazard information to plan for disease outbreaks and emergency response. Telecommunications providers ensure that alerts are delivered quickly and inclusively, including to people with disabilities.

This integrated approach reflects global best practice under the United Nations “Early Warnings for All” framework, which emphasizes monitoring, risk knowledge, dissemination, and response. In Tonga, this framework is being operationalized through partnerships that connect national institutions, local government, communities, and development organizations.

For rural communities, the benefits are tangible. Early warning systems reduce losses from cyclones and floods, protect livelihoods, and strengthen adaptive capacity in the face of climate change. They also empower communities with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about farming, fisheries, and household preparedness.

As climate risks intensify, investments in meteorological tools and early warning systems are not optional. They are foundational to sustainable rural development and resilience. Continued collaboration across government, civil society, private sector, and communities will be essential to ensure that every household in Tonga can anticipate hazards, respond effectively, and recover stronger.

The post Strengthening Rural Resilience Through Meteorological Tools and Early Warning Systems first appeared on MORDI Tonga.