World Bank Grant To Tonga To Address Non-Communicable Diseases And Strengthen Health Services

Thursday, 7 November 2024, 6:41 pm
Press Release: World Bank

NUKU’ALOFA, November 7, 2024 – The
World Bank has approved a grant to help Tonga meet the
growing challenge of non-communicable diseases, such as
diabetes and heart disease. The US$30 million grant for the
Health Enhancement and Resiliency in Tonga (HEART) Project
will benefit all Tongans, especially more than 15,000 people
residing in Vava’u and the Niuas, where service delivery
capacity will be expanded.

“Non-communicable
diseases are a significant health issue in
Tonga,” said
Hon. Tiofilusi Tiueti, Tonga’s Minister for
Finance. “This project is crucial in
addressing these challenges in a holistic manner, from
changing behaviors, to rebuilding climate-resilient
hospitals—all aiming to improve the health and well-being
of Tongans, especially those in remote areas in the northern
islands.”

The project aims to
develop an innovative system for preventing, detecting, and
managing non-communicable diseases that can potentially
serve as a model in the Pacific. This comprehensive approach
includes policy development; communications; service
delivery design; and the strengthening of primary health
care through the development of healthcare workers, the
provision of advanced medical equipment, and the integration
of digital technology.

“We are proud
to be working alongside key development partners to support
the Tongan Government in its efforts to build a healthier
and more resilient future for its people,” said
Stefano Mocci, World Bank Country Manager for the
South Pacific.

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The project will also offer
extensive education and training for healthcare workers and
support the reconstruction of the Prince Wellington Ngu
Hospital in Vava’u. New buildings will be designed to
withstand natural disasters, ensuring continuity in the
provision of health services while also being green and
efficient. The project aligns with the Tonga Strategic
Development Framework II (TSDFII) 2015–2025 and the Tongan
National NCD
Strategy.

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