Women commit to stand as candidates for local government during International Women’s Day 2016 ^Featured

The Women’s Affairs is coordinating a two – day workshop starting on Tuesday and Wednesday in the lead – up to the upcoming District and Town Officers elections. The workshop is focused on encouraging potential women to stand as candidates in these elections and preparing them for the tasks required of a District and Town Officer.

There were 30 participants who registered – most of will be standing as candidates in their various communities and districts.The workshop is divided into different sessions with speakers from various government ministries and agencies.

Invited panellists included the Acting Attorney General Aminiasi Kefu and Supervisor of Elections Pita Vuki who discussed with the participants the legalities of both positions for District and Town Officers in terms of elections and law –making.

Previous members of Parliament also had the opportunity to speak with the participants such as ‘Alisi Taumoepeau (former Justice Minister), and Lepolo Taunisila (former Niua People’s Representative). Among the participants were women who have held or are currently holding positions as Town Officers.

Nunia Moala was present for the workshop, travelling from Taunga Vava’u where she was a former Town Officer. Vika Kaufusi, who is acting Town Officer for Havelu in place of her husband, was also at the workshop and together with Nunia shared their rare experiences with the rest of the participants but also encouraging them it is a responsibility that women can take on.

At the end of the two day workshop, the Tonga Netball Association is organizing a friendly basketball match for the participants. The participants are willing to promote healthier lifestyles as it is an important part of tackling obesity in all communities.

These women are taking the lead in encouraging healthy leaders as that will also encourage others to such a lifestyle. This comes at the crucial time with the new NCD Strategic Plan for Tonga and the need for leaders to be a part of eliminating NCD’s such as obesity.

Other events that also marked International Women’s Day were organized by Ministry of Police, FIFA and the local women’s group in Houma chaired by Hon. Si’atukimoana Vaea.

The workshop for IWD 2016 was planned by the National Planning Committee which is a collection of representatives from both government and civil society organizations.

Ministry of Internal Affairs