05th April, 2022 TONGAN The Prime Minister, Honourable Hu’akavameiliku handed over keys to a newly built house to ‘Ahau resident Mr Halaime Veilofia, marking the completion of the first house to be rebuilt under government’s Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha’apai volcano and tsunami rebuilding program.
Government launched the program on February 28.
Today’s event marks 30 days of the program launch and the completion of the first of 468 houses that government has earmarked to be rebuilt or repaired.
The program will cover Tongatapu, ‘Eua and Ha’apai.
“Government is focused on recovery and returning life to normalcy for the people who were affected,” Hon Hu’akavameiliku stated.
“This is the first house that has been completed and for those who have yet to have their house rebuilt, government is awaiting lease confirmation for the owners before construction begins.”
Hon Hu’akavameiliku stated that government is grateful to be working with partners in the recovery program.
Houses have been designed to be better than what they were before they were destroyed, with better resilience being the focus.
A complete house will include water supply, power supply, water tank, toilet and bathroom facilities, with kitchen, sitting room and bedrooms.
Hon Hu’akavameiliku said government is working with local companies to carry out the construction of houses.
The ‘Ahau house was built by Dr Dre Construction, owned by Glen Kaumavae and has been certified for use by the Ministry of Infrastructure.
Meanwhile, 10 families in ‘Ahau also received financial assistance from government today, ranging from $500 to $3,000.
The Free Wesley Church of Tonga minister in charge for ‘Ahau, Reverend Sione Palavi blessed the new house.
ENDS
Issued by: The Prime Minister’s Office, P.O. Box 62, Nuku’alofa, Tonga. Tel: (676) 7401351 Fax: (676) 23 888; For media enquiries- Email: pressroom@pmo.gov.to Website: www.pmo.gov.to