US Ambassador Marie C. Damour, serving in Tonga, recently joined the Peace Corps Tonga in a ceremony where she administered the Peace Corps Pledge to the 85th group of Volunteers. During this event, she also unveiled an important environmental initiative.
In her address, Ambassador Damour expressed her pride in supporting the Peace Corps’ efforts in Tonga and highlighted the critical role of the new environment-focused project. This project aims to assist Tonga in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and building a more resilient future. The project will center on three key areas:
Climate Adaptation and Resilience: The Peace Corps will collaborate with local communities to develop and implement strategies to adapt to climate change impacts, such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and drought.
Disaster Risk Reduction: The Peace Corps will work with communities to create and implement plans to reduce the risks associated with natural disasters like cyclones and tsunamis.
Environmental Conservation: The Peace Corps will partner with local communities to contribute to the preservation of Tonga’s natural resources, including forests, fisheries, and coral reefs.
Funding for this project is provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and it will span over the next five years.
Ambassador Damour emphasized the project’s significance as a testament to the strong partnership between the United States and Tonga. This partnership plays a vital role in promoting a sustainable and resilient future for Tonga.
This environment-focused initiative signifies a significant step in the Peace Corps’ commitment to addressing climate change and environmental concerns in Tonga. Its aim is to bolster the capacity of Tongan communities to cope with climate change’s repercussions, reduce the risks associated with natural disasters, and protect Tonga’s invaluable natural assets. Additionally, it underscores the enduring partnership between the United States and Tonga, driven by a shared dedication to shaping a more sustainable future.
