Digital Resilience for Tonga: Tonga has officially named and commissioned its second international undersea fibre optic cable, “Tu‘i Vava‘u,” a second link meant to cut outage risk and boost internet reliability after past disruptions. Ocean & Climate Science: New research using the Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha’apai eruption plume suggests chemical reactions may have helped break down methane, offering a way to judge future methane-removal ideas. Plastic Pollution Tracking: Notpla’s chief innovation officer joined an eXXpedition mission sailing through Tonga to trace how plastic moves through ecosystems, pairing ocean microplastic work with coastal litter and waste-management studies. Weather/Climate Planning: Pacific meteorology directors met in Honiara to review the Pacific Islands Meteorological Strategy and start drafting the next plan through 2036, with support from SPREP, WMO and UNDRR. Social Protection in Tonga: Government launched national documents on child poverty, disability inclusion in disasters, and a disability welfare scheme—aimed at more equitable support. Health & Food Environment: Tonga’s obesity rate is reported among the world’s highest, with the gap between Tonga and low-obesity countries highlighted as a major public health concern. Sport & Pathways (youth): A new American football programme in Tonga High School is building a structured pathway for young athletes toward education and opportunities in the United States.