Ha'apai, Tonga — August 21, 2026 — Marking a major milestone in community-led environmental action, the Climate Resilient Islands (CRI) Programme officially launched Phase 3 on August 21, 2026.

As part of this phase, local teams have successfully completed comprehensive climate resilience consultation workshops across nine communities in Ha'apai—including Koulo, Lotofoa, Holopeka, Hihifo, Pangai, 'Uiha, Felemea, Lofanga, and Mo'unga'one.

Empowering Local Communities & Traditional Knowledge

The workshops provided a dedicated space for community members to reflect on their existing resources, map out local livelihoods, and share invaluable indigenous knowledge. Discussions focused on crucial local practices, including:

• Traditional Agriculture & Handicrafts: Preserving cultural heritage while reinforcing sustainable local economies.
• Ocean Management: Strengthening coastal resource stewardship.
• Early Warning Indicators: Documenting traditional environmental signs to improve local disaster preparedness.

Inclusive Planning for a Sustainable Future

A central focus of Phase 3 is ensuring that climate action leaves no one behind. The consultations evaluated community decision-making structures while actively integrating Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) principles into every stage of local planning.

The insights gathered from these nine communities will directly inform inclusive, five-year community resilience action plans—blending traditional wisdom with practical planning to secure a climate-resilient future for Ha'apai.

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