The Ministry of Health for Tonga and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently collaborated to improve the infrastructure and health care at the Vaiola Hospital in Nuku’alofa Tonga.
In 2023, the World Heath Organization donated oxygen containers to the hospital to help with patients’ oxygen needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, due to limited funding, the hospital had no choice but to store the oxygen tanks near the electrical generators, which created a hazardous environment.
DOWNLOADThe Church recognized the need to safely store the oxygen tanks and with the assistance of the Ministry of Health, a storage facility was completed to house the oxygen tanks and delivery system.
Mr. Tociro Katsuki, the hospital’s Biomedical Adviser, explained: “It is important [to] make sure there’s clean oxygen at the hospital available for the people of Tonga.”
In thanking the Church for its role in this project, Acting Medical Superintendent, Dr. Falahola Fuka, said, “The Church’s ongoing collaboration with the Ministry enhances the health and welfare of the Tongan people. It is through collective effort and shared purpose that we can truly make a meaningful impact.”
DOWNLOADHumanitarian manager for the Church in the Pacific Area, Taulia Tafiti, said, “We are here to help our neighbours. We are not here to answer all problems…but we are here to help relieve suffering and improve lives as an extension of the Saviour.”
He also expressed the Church’s hope to continue working with the Ministry and the Government of Tonga.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provides needed funds and assistance for humanitarian projects through out the world with the hope of blessing lives and providing the love and care of the Saviour.