Tongan People: The Key Asset for Future Development, States Crown Prince
At the National Development Summit 2025, Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala emphasized that the Tongan people are the key asset for national development. He called for addressing their needs, including quality education and healthcare. This summit engages over 200 participants to evaluate past progress and strategize for future development under TSDF III. Resilience in the face of challenges was highlighted as essential for moving forward.
At the recently held national development summit, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala emphasized that the Tongan people represent the most valuable asset for the nation’s future development. He highlighted the critical need for access to quality education, healthcare, and income-generating opportunities to ensure progress.
The summit, known as “The National Development Summit 2025,” marked the inaugural national consultation event and attracted over 200 participants at the Fa’onelua Convention Center in Nuku’alofa, with live broadcasts made available across Tonga. Attendees deliberated on the country’s development progress from 2015 to 2025, based on the Tonga Strategic Development Framework (TSDF) II, and began formulating strategies for TSDF III covering the period from 2026 to 2036.
Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala delivered a keynote address focusing on the theme, “A resilient Tonga through transformative action, safeguarding our heritage.” He noted that collaboration, proactive leadership, and strategic measures are essential for enhancing resilience and promoting the well-being of Tongans. He stated that the nation’s development depends on harnessing the intellectual capacity, creativity, and energy of its citizens.
During his address, the Crown Prince acknowledged the challenges Tonga faces, including natural disasters and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these adversities, he underscored the Tongan people’s resilience and called for a concerted effort to ensure that every individual has access to necessary resources and opportunities. “We must confirm that every Tongan has access to quality education, healthcare, and a way to make a living,” he asserted, emphasizing the empowerment of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and remote communities.
The TSDF III is set to adopt a fundamentally people-centered approach to national development, prioritizing the welfare of the Tongan populace. The summit featured contributions from Prime Minister Hon. Dr ‘Aisake Eke, cabinet members, People’s Representatives, development partners, and various stakeholders all engaged in discussions on developmental strategies for the upcoming decade.
Over four days, summit sessions will be streamed live on the Prime Minister’s Facebook page, allowing the public to interact through comments and questions. Additionally, there are designated phone lines for those in the outer islands to submit inquiries.
On the first day of the summit, discussions included reflections on national development achievements of the last decade, lessons learned, and future pathways. Panelists included Mr. Peter Poulsen, Dr. Malakai Koloamatangi, Mrs. Balwyn Fa’otusia, and Mrs. Leta Kami, moderated by Mrs. ‘Amelia Kinahoi Siamomua. Upcoming discussions are slated to focus on Economic Development and Resilience, Climate Change, as well as topics related to Infrastructure, Technology, Cultural Development, Education, and Security issues regarding illicit drugs.
In conclusion, the National Development Summit 2025 serves as a pivotal platform for assessing Tonga’s developmental trajectory and strategizing for its future. With a focus on empowering the populace and addressing their needs, the Crown Prince and summit participants aim to foster a resilient society capable of overcoming challenges through collaboration and proactive measures. The commitment to a people-centered approach in TSDF III signifies a promising path toward sustainable progress for the Tongan community.
Original Source: matangitonga.to
