Cyclone Gita recovery

The Second Development Policy Operation was approved in April 2017, and supported reforms to strengthen the government’s finances and foster a more dynamic economy.  The severe impact of Category 4 Tropical Cyclone Gita, the strongest cyclone to impact Tonga since 1982, has prompted a need for additional support for the government’s recovery efforts and to advance its longer-term economic reform agenda.

Mr O’Brien and the Board members visited Tonga and met Digicel staff and management on Monday.

The visitors were able to see first-hand the trail of destruction left behind by the category 4 cyclone that hit Tonga last month.

Mr. O’Brien and the Board members also visited the Digicel office that was extensively damaged.

They met the 12 staff and a security guard who all sheltered in the office during the cyclone.

Three children were among the staff who sought refuge in the office.

Despite this Tongans everywhere gathered in church on Sunday in a show of unity and thanksgiving.

Bells echoed across the island yesterday morning as people made their way into the many churches scattered throughout the community.

Despite the fact many parishioners were without power and had suffered heavy damage to property, they seemed happy to come to church.

The same Defence Force plane that touched down on Tuesday with 12 tonnes of aid supplies, including shelter, hygiene kits, containers and tarpaulins, will take the aerial photos.

Joint Forces Acting Commander Air Commodore Kevin McEvoy spoke to The AM Show. Credits: Image - Twitter; Video - The AM Show.

An Air Force Orion will take to the air over Tonga on Wednesday to get a better idea of the carnage left behind in Cyclone Gita's path.