AGP Executive Report

Geohazards & early warning: Tonga-linked regional leaders gathered in Honiara as Solomon Islands’ Mines and Energy minister Derrick Rawcliffe Manuari opened ORSNET, a geohazards meeting, and the Pacific Tsunami Warning System working group—highlighting how Ring of Fire risks (earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, tsunamis) demand better monitoring, preparedness and cooperation. Climate media capacity: Tonga is strengthening climate and environment journalism, with MEIDECC and Tonga National University consulting on new training pathways so reporters can cover early warning systems, disaster preparedness, marine resources and sustainable development more accurately. Tonga heritage finds: During construction of Tonga’s new Parliament complex, workers reported Lapita pottery fragments at the site—an important reminder of deep settlement history as the cyclone-replacement project moves ahead. Deep-sea mining rules stalled: The UN’s International Seabed Authority extended a controversial deep-sea mining exploration contract while still failing to finalise commercial mining rules, drawing criticism that this sets a dangerous precedent for both the deep sea and the rule of law. Pacific mapping skills: A regional GIS and environmental data training in Fiji brought together practitioners from across the Pacific, including Tonga, to improve how countries manage environmental information for planning and action.

Climate Journalism & Early Warning: Tonga is working with Tonga National University to strengthen training for journalists on climate change, weather, early warning systems, disaster preparedness, environmental management, marine resources and sustainable development, after a MEIDECC stakeholder consultation reviewed existing media courses and discussed a proposed BA programme. Archaeology & Climate Resilience: Lapita pottery fragments have been found during construction of Tonga’s new Parliament complex at Matatoa, with the site chosen partly to reduce cyclone and other climate-related risks after Cyclone Gita destroyed the previous building. GIS for Environmental Action: Pacific geospatial and environmental professionals met in Nadi, Fiji for hands-on GIS training to better manage environmental data and support action on biodiversity loss, climate change and pollution, with Tonga among the participating countries. Deep-Sea Mining Warning: A new report argues deep-sea mining would cause more direct harm to ocean life than climate change and other pressures combined, stressing that deep-sea species are slow to recover and may not adapt. Tsunami Readiness (Regional): The U.S. supported Samoa’s tsunami preparedness with new hardware/software, staff training and community “Tsunami Ready” steps including signboards and exercises. UNESCO Cultural Diversity: Tonga ratified UNESCO’s 2005 Convention on protecting and promoting the diversity of cultural expressions, linking cultural development with sustainable development and international cooperation.

Climate & Media Capacity: Tonga is strengthening climate and environment reporting by partnering with Tonga National University to review journalism training and develop new programmes that prepare reporters for climate change, early warning systems, disaster preparedness, marine resources and sustainable development. Cultural Policy & Sustainability: Tonga has ratified UNESCO’s 2005 Convention on protecting and promoting the diversity of cultural expressions, with the move framed as linked to sustainable development and community identity. Heritage & Tourism Pressure: A proposal to introduce pre-paid “tonga ride” services for tourists is being discussed in Mysuru, aiming to cut overcharging and manage ride zones—an example of how tourism systems can reduce environmental and social friction around heritage transport. Archaeology & Climate Risk: Lapita pottery fragments have been found at Tonga’s new Parliament site as construction continues on the Talangaholo Royal Estate complex, selected partly to reduce cyclone and climate-related exposure. Disaster Preparedness: The U.S. is supporting Samoa’s tsunami preparedness with new warning centre tools, staff training, and community “Tsunami Ready” steps. Regional Mapping Skills: Pacific GIS and geospatial professionals trained in Fiji on GNSS and environmental data management, with Tonga participants pointing to surveying backlogs and the need for better land and disaster planning.

Sustainable Tourism in Tonga: Mandala Resort on Fetoko Island is running a small, solar-powered off-grid stay for just 10 guests a week, with rainwater collection, reverse osmosis water, and food grown via its own hydroponic farm plus local growers and seafood from Tonga’s waters. Climate Journalism Capacity: Tonga is working with Tonga National University to strengthen future media training, aiming to improve how journalists report climate change, weather, early warning systems, disasters, marine resources and sustainable development. Cultural Heritage at Risk from Development: Lapita pottery fragments have been found during construction of Tonga’s new Parliament complex, with the site chosen partly to reduce cyclone and climate-related exposure. Deep-Sea Mining Warning: A deepwater ecology expert says deep-sea mining would cause more direct harm to ocean life than climate change, pollution and acidification combined, arguing slow deep-sea species can’t recover fast enough. Regional Environment Skills: GIS and spatial practitioners from across the Pacific met in Nadi for training to better manage environmental data and support action on biodiversity loss, climate change and pollution. Disaster Preparedness (Regional): The U.S. is supporting Samoa’s tsunami preparedness with new warning tools, staff training, and community “Tsunami Ready” progress.

Climate Journalism Training: Tonga is strengthening how it trains journalists on climate change and environmental reporting, with MEIDECC and Tonga National University reviewing current courses and planning a Bachelor of Arts track covering weather, early warning, disaster preparedness, marine resources and sustainable development. Cultural Heritage & Resilience: Construction of Tonga’s new Parliament complex has uncovered Lapita pottery fragments, linking the site to some of the earliest Tonga settlement history while the project also factors in cyclone and climate risk. Deep-Sea Mining Alarm: A Pacific-focused debate is intensifying as scientists warn deep-sea mining could cause more direct harm to ocean life than climate change, pollution and acidification combined, with calls to “follow the science” and apply “do no harm.” GIS for Environment Action: GIS and spatial practitioners from across the Pacific met in Nadi, Fiji, to boost environmental data management skills to tackle biodiversity loss, climate change and pollution. Disaster Preparedness (Regional): The U.S. is supporting Samoa’s tsunami warning upgrades, including new hardware/software, staff training and community “Tsunami Ready” efforts. Pacific Security & Response: New Zealand Defence Force has taken leadership of the Pacific Response Group, a multinational capability supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief across the region. Tonga-UK Cooperation: Tonga’s PM welcomed the UK’s new High Commissioner, with climate change, disaster preparedness and sustainable development flagged as key priorities.

Climate Journalism Training: Tonga is working with Tonga National University to strengthen how journalists report climate change and environmental issues, including weather, early warning systems, disaster preparedness, marine resources and sustainable development, after a MEIDECC stakeholder consultation reviewed existing media courses and discussed a proposed BA programme. Deep-Sea Mining Debate: A Pacific-wide conversation on deep-sea minerals is shifting toward “follow the science” and “do no harm,” with Tonga reaffirming that any future decisions must be guided by science and strong environmental safeguards. GIS for Environment Action: SPREP reports a five-day GIS training in Nadi, Fiji bringing together geospatial and environmental professionals from across the Pacific (including Tonga) to improve environmental data management for biodiversity loss, climate change and pollution. Tsunami Preparedness Support: The U.S. is backing Samoa’s tsunami warning upgrades, including new hardware/software, staff training, updated operating procedures, and community “Tsunami Ready” work such as signboards and evacuation exercises. Cultural Heritage at Risk-Reduction Site: Lapita pottery fragments were found during construction of Tonga’s new Parliament complex at Matatoa, where the elevated site is partly chosen to reduce cyclone and climate-related exposure. Pacific Security & Response: New Zealand Defence Force has taken over leadership of the Pacific Response Group, a multinational capability that supports humanitarian assistance and disaster relief across the region, with Tonga among contributing partners.

Climate Journalism Training: Tonga is strengthening how it reports climate and environmental risks, with MEIDECC and Tonga National University developing new media training and a proposed BA programme to prepare journalists to cover weather, early warning systems, disaster preparedness, marine resources and sustainable development. Cultural Heritage on the Move: Lapita pottery fragments have been found during construction of Tonga’s new Parliament complex, linking ancient settlement history to a project meant to replace the 2018 Cyclone Gita-destroyed site. Regional Security & Response: New Zealand Defence Force has taken over leadership of the Pacific Response Group, a multinational capability supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief across the Pacific, including Tonga. Deep-Sea Mining Debate: A Pacific-wide conversation is shifting toward “do no harm” and science-led decisions on deep-sea minerals, with Tonga reaffirming it wants future choices guided by research and environmental safeguards. Ocean Health Concern: A separate report warns that deep-sea mining could cause more direct damage to deep-ocean life than climate change, pollution and other pressures combined.

Climate Journalism Training: Tonga is strengthening how it reports climate and environmental risks, with MEIDECC and Tonga National University consulting on new media training and a proposed BA to prepare journalists to cover weather, early warning, disaster preparedness, marine resources and sustainable development. Archaeology & Resilience: Lapita pottery fragments have been found during construction of Tonga’s new Parliament complex, with the project sited on higher ground after Cyclone Gita destroyed the previous building—an early reminder that heritage and climate planning now share the same space. Ocean Protection Debate: A Pacific-wide conversation on deep-sea mining is shifting toward “follow the science” and “do no harm,” with Tonga reaffirming that future decisions must be guided by science and environmental safeguards. Regional Security Moves: Australia’s new Fiji security treaties and New Zealand’s takeover of leadership of the Pacific Response Group underscore how Pacific disaster response and security cooperation are being reshaped—raising questions about who sets the agenda. Pollution Watch: Monsoon rains haven’t fixed sewage pollution in the Yamuna, where faecal coliform levels remain far above safe limits, keeping pressure on water quality and public health.

Archaeology & Heritage: Lapita pottery fragments have been found during construction of Tonga’s new Parliament complex, a reminder that major infrastructure work is happening on top of deep settlement history tied to Tonga’s earliest communities. Climate & Resilience Journalism: Tonga is planning stronger training for journalists on climate change, weather, early warning systems, disaster preparedness, marine resources and sustainable development, with MEIDECC and Tonga National University developing a new media programme. Regional Security & Disaster Response: New Zealand Defence Force has taken over leadership of the Pacific Response Group from Australia, keeping a multinational team ready for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief across the Pacific, including Tonga. Ocean Protection Debate: A Pacific deep-sea mining discussion highlights growing calls for “do no harm” and science-led decisions, with Tonga reaffirming it wants understanding first before any long-term move. AI, Language & Misinformation Risks: Niuean language concerns are raised over an AI-linked phrasebook accused of mixing languages and misrepresenting Vagahau Niue—an example of why local verification matters. UK-Tonga Cooperation: Tonga’s PM welcomed the new UK High Commissioner, with climate change, disaster preparedness and sustainable development flagged as shared priorities.

Deep-sea mining warning: A deepwater ecology expert says deep-sea mining could cause more direct harm to ocean life than climate change and pollution combined, arguing slow-growing deep-sea species can’t recover or adapt fast enough. GIS for the environment: More than 20 Pacific GIS and spatial professionals met in Nadi, Fiji, to sharpen environmental data management skills to tackle the region’s “triple planetary crisis” of biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution. Tonga in focus for biodiversity: Tonga is highlighted in wider Pacific moves to guide ocean decisions by science and a “do no harm” approach as deep-sea minerals talks evolve. Pacific health leadership: Pacific health leaders gathered in Auckland for the Pasifika Medical Association’s 30th anniversary conference, focusing on better service and leadership for Pacific communities. Tonga-linked rural livelihoods: New Zealand’s RSE scheme continues supporting Tongans to build businesses back home, with one worker using earnings for a barbershop, cassava plantation, and piggery. Pacific food exports: Pacific Trade Invest’s Tonga and other Pacific exporters will showcase premium food and beverages at Fine Food Australia in late August.

Deep-Sea Mining: A new report warns deep-sea mining could cause more direct harm to ocean life than climate change, pollution and acidification combined, arguing deep-sea species can’t “adapt or outrun” the damage. GIS for Environment Action: SPREP says Pacific geospatial and environmental professionals are boosting skills in GIS and environmental data management in Nadi, with Tonga among participating countries, to better support biodiversity, climate and pollution responses. Deep-Sea Minerals Policy Shift: The Pacific conversation on deep-sea minerals is moving toward “follow the science, protect the environment, do no harm,” with Tonga reaffirming science-led decision-making. Pacific Health: Pasifika Medical Association’s 30th anniversary conference in Auckland brings Pacific health leaders together on improving outcomes and leadership through service. Seasonal Work & Livelihoods: New Zealand’s RSE scheme is helping Tongans like Steven Piukala build small businesses back home using income earned while working in Waikato. Tonga in Film: TIFF will premiere Tongan-NZ director Alex Liu’s “God Bless You, Mr Kopu,” an immigrant story that also touches on exploitation themes. Climate Risk for Voyaging: Polynesian Voyaging Society extends the Moananuiākea Voyage due to more dangerous weather linked to El Niño and climate change, with Tonga listed among future stops.

Deep-Sea Mining: A Canadian deepwater ecology expert warns deep-sea mining would directly harm ancient, slow-adapting ocean life far more than climate change, pollution, acidification, warming and oil spills combined—arguing deep-sea species can’t “outrun” the impacts. GIS for Environment Action: Pacific GIS and spatial practitioners met in Nadi, Fiji to strengthen environmental data management and tools like the Pacific Environment Portal, targeting biodiversity loss, climate change and pollution. Deep-Sea Minerals Policy Shift: Commentary says Pacific debate is moving from simple “for or against” toward “follow the science, protect the environment, do no harm,” with Tonga reaffirming science-led decisions. Climate Risk to Voyaging: The Polynesian Voyaging Society extended the Moananuiākea Voyage due to more dangerous weather and sailing conditions linked to El Niño and climate change, with stops including Fiji, Tonga and other Pacific islands. Health & Community: Pasifika Medical Association leaders gathered in Auckland for its 30th conference, focusing on service-led leadership and better health outcomes for Pacific communities. Tonga in the Spotlight: A TIFF premiere highlights a Tongan-NZ director’s film, while Tonga’s Nishi Foods is set to showcase at Australia’s Fine Food Australia trade exhibition.

Deep-Sea Mining: A Fisheries and Oceans Canada deepwater ecology scientist says deep-sea mining would devastate ocean life, warning deep-sea species can’t “outrun” the impacts and that the deep ocean underpins oxygen and climate regulation. GIS for Environment Action: SPREP reports Pacific GIS and spatial professionals met in Nadi, including Tonga delegates, to strengthen environmental data management to tackle biodiversity loss, climate change and pollution. Deep-Sea Minerals Policy Shift: A Pacific-wide conversation on deep-sea minerals is moving from simple “for or against” toward “follow the science, protect the environment, do no harm,” with Tonga reaffirming a science-led approach. Moananuiākea Voyage Reroute: The Polynesian Voyaging Society extends the Moananuiākea Voyage by a year, citing El Niño and climate-driven dangerous weather risks, with added stops including Tonga. Pacific Health Leadership: Pacific health leaders gather in Auckland for the Pasifika Medical Association’s 30th anniversary conference, focusing on leadership through service and better outcomes for Pacific communities. Tonga Food Exports: Pacific Trade Invest’s Pacific Showcase at Fine Food Australia will feature Tonga’s Nishi Foods alongside other Pacific producers, aiming to connect exporters with buyers.

GIS & Environment Capacity: More than 20 Pacific GIS and spatial practitioners, including Tonga delegates, met in Nadi, Fiji for a five-day training to strengthen environmental data management and support action on biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution. Rural Livelihoods & Climate Resilience: Tonga and IFAD launched the new phase of the Tonga Rural Innovation Project (TRIP III), a US$19.4m push reaching 8,800 households across Tongatapu, Vava’u, ‘Eua, Ha’apai and the outer islands, aiming to boost food and nutrition security, sustainable livelihoods, and climate resilience. Deep-Sea Mining Debate: A Pacific-wide conversation on deep-sea minerals is shifting from simple “for or against” to “follow the science” and “do no harm,” with Tonga reaffirming it wants decisions guided by research and environmental safeguards. Pacific Climate Leadership: The Take The Lead Tonga initiative joined a global alliance to strengthen Pacific climate leadership ahead of major biodiversity talks. Moananuiākea Voyage Update: Polynesian Voyaging Society extended the Moananuiākea Voyage by a year due to higher El Niño-driven weather risks, with stops planned across the Pacific including Tonga. Health & Community: Pacific health leaders gathered in Auckland for the Pasifika Medical Association’s 30th anniversary conference, focusing on better outcomes for Pacific communities.

GIS & Environment Capacity: 21 Pacific GIS and spatial practitioners met in Nadi, Fiji for a five-day training to strengthen environmental data management as the region tackles biodiversity loss, climate change and pollution. Deep-sea Minerals Debate: Pacific governments are moving from simple “for or against” positions toward “follow the science, protect the environment, do no harm,” with Tonga reaffirming science-led decisions. Tonga Rural Resilience: Tonga and IFAD launched TRIP III, a US$19.4m rural innovation push reaching 8,800 households to boost diversified, more commercial agriculture and climate resilience. Tsunami Preparedness: Tonga is advancing tsunami readiness through UNESCO-IOC Tsunami Ready workshops. El Niño Voyaging Risks: The Moananuiākea Voyage sail plan has been extended by a year as El Niño and hotter oceans raise dangerous weather risks for traditional voyaging. Seasonal Work & Livelihoods: New Zealand’s RSE scheme is helping Tongans like Steven Piukala build small businesses back home, with over 1,676 Tongans in 2025–26. Biodiversity Spotlight: Central Park Zoo debuted twin critically endangered black-and-white ruffed lemurs, a conservation win for a species under heavy pressure. Trade & Food Exports: Pacific exporters, including Tonga’s Nishi Foods, are set to showcase at Australia’s Fine Food Australia with a Pacific Showcase.

Climate & Disaster Risk: Polynesian Voyaging Society extends the Moananuiākea Voyage by a year after NOAA-linked forecasts point to higher El Niño-driven risks across the Western North Pacific, with Hōkūle‘a and Hikianalia rerouting to manage dangerous weather. Biodiversity & Conservation: Central Park Zoo in New York debuts twin black-and-white ruffed lemurs—Masco (male) and Tonga (female)—a boost for a critically endangered species, highlighting the role of captive breeding in maintaining genetic diversity. Waste & Pollution: SPREP reports progress under the SWAP2 regional programme, including 108 beach surveys and audits of over 106,000 marine-litter items across Tonga and other Pacific islands, feeding into cleaner waste planning and plastics treaty work. Rural Livelihoods & Climate Resilience: Tonga and IFAD launch TRIP III, a US$19.4m rural innovation project (with GEF support) reaching 8,800 households to diversify agriculture, improve commercialization, and strengthen climate resilience. Regional Governance & Climate Policy: A Solomon Islands parliamentary delegation joins a Pacific parliamentarians’ seminar in China focused on green and low-carbon development and community-based rural revitalization. Labour Mobility: New Zealand’s RSE scheme continues supporting Tongans to build businesses back home, with one worker describing how seasonal earnings fund a barbershop, cassava plantation and piggery. Ocean Governance: UN regulator ISA extends a deep-sea mining exploration contract while still delaying final rules for commercial seabed mining—renewing concern for Pacific marine ecosystems. Tonga-Adjacent Health Notice: CDC updates dengue travel destination lists, now including Tonga among higher-risk locations.