The recent visit of Elder Taniela B. Wakolo, First Counselor in the Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon. Lord Fakafānua, was a meaningful occasion that highlighted shared values of faith, service and commitment to the well-being of the people of Tonga.
Elder Wakolo was accompanied by his wife, Anita, regional Church leaders Elder Tuione and his wife, Moala and Elder Siale Matavaha’ Eliesa and his wife, 'Iolani.’
Elder-Wakolo-and-Tonga-Prime-Minister
Elder Taniela B. Wakolo (right), First Counselor in the Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, presents a Christus statue to the Prime Minister of Tonga (left), Hon. Lord Fakafānua, at the Office of the Prime Minister in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, on Monday, 2 February 2026. Image used with permission courtesy of the Prime Minister's Office.The visit took place in a context of respect for His Majesty King Tupou VI and Her Majesty Queen Nanasipauʻu, and for their role in Tonga’s national life and Christian tradition.
During the meeting, discussions reflected mutual respect for the role that faith, family and community play in strengthening society. Elder Wakolo expressed gratitude for the warm spirit of the Tongan people and reaffirmed the Church’s long-standing commitment to supporting individuals and families through spiritual guidance, humanitarian aid, education and self-reliance initiatives.
As a gesture of goodwill and shared Christian faith, Elder Wakolo presented Prime Minister Lord Fakafānua with a Christus statue, symbolising the teachings of Jesus Christ and the values of faith, service and unity.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the positive contributions of the Church in Tonga, particularly in areas such as youth development, disaster relief, education and moral leadership. He noted that partnerships grounded in shared values help build resilient communities and support national cohesion.
Elder Wakolo emphasised that the Church’s mission is centred on following Jesus Christ by loving God and serving others. He noted that such visits are opportunities to listen, learn and strengthen cooperation with government and community leaders for the benefit of all.
The meeting was conducted in a spirit of friendship and goodwill, reflecting Tonga’s Christian heritage and its respect for faith-based organisations that contribute positively to society. Both leaders expressed hope that continued dialogue and cooperation would bless present and future generations.