Live & Learn Tonga

The Live & Learn Tonga (LLT) vision is that, through partnerships with community and relevant stakeholders, each individual has access to knowledge and resources to create a sustainable and fair Tonga, where everyone has equal access to opportunity.

CRI-WASH

CRI-WASH

Objective

The Climate Resilient Islands-Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (CRI-WASH) Program aims to build stronger, climate-resilient island communities through practical and inclusive water solutions. Its first objective is to upgrade community water security by improving infrastructure and access to safe water. Second, it seeks to enhance resilience against the combined impacts of climate change and WASH-related challenges such as drought, flooding, and contamination. Finally, the program aims to strengthen community capacity and ownership through training, leadership development, and long-term maintenance planning. Together, these objectives ensure that communities are not only better equipped, but also empowered to manage their water systems sustainably.

Project Background

The CRI-WASH Program focuses on improving water security for vulnerable rural communities, prioritizing those most at risk from climate change impacts. The project specifically targets eight villages on Vava'u Island, where households face increasing challenges related to drought, limited infrastructure, and safe water access. By upgrading water systems and promoting climate-resilient practices, the program addresses both immediate WASH needs and long-term adaptation goals. The initiative ensures that improvements are community-driven, sustainable, and aligned with local resilience planning.

Target

Audience

Community Representatives

Beneficiary Households

Local Government and Stakeholders

Our Work

The CRI-WASH Project works with eight rural villages on Vava’u Island, Tonga to improve water security and strengthen local resilience to climate and WASH-related challenges. Our work focuses on empowering communities to take ownership of their water systems through practical upgrades, training, and inclusive planning. We partner with village leaders, water committees, and households to: Upgrade water infrastructure, including tanks, pipes, and storage systems Train communities on safe water practices, water governance, and system maintenance Build resilience to droughts, contamination, and other climate-related water risks Establish local ownership through community-led planning and maintenance systems Support vulnerable households with targeted WASH interventions and guidance By combining technical support with local leadership, CRI-WASH helps communities secure safe, sustainable water access now and into the future.

Program Duration

2024 - 2026

Funded By:

Meet the

CRI-WASH

Team

Sione Pongi

WASH Manager

Moala Loketi

Project Coordinator / Wash & EU

Seluini Akauola

Project Coordinator / M&E Coordinator

'Ana Saumaki

Project Coordinator / WASH Institute

Islands participating in

CRI-WASH

Vava'u