NUKU‘ALOFA, TONGA – The entire staff of the Tonga Statistics Department (TSD) was filled with renewed purpose as it successfully concluded an intensive four-day training program designed to elevate national data excellence. Held from 2–5 February 2026, the workshop unified the entire TSD staff, including team members who travelled from Vava‘u and ‘Eua to master the end-to-end statistical production process.
The training focused on the Principles of Official Statistics (POS) and the Generic Statistical Business Process Model (GSBPM). This initiative is exceptionally timely as TSD ramps up preparations for the upcoming Population and Housing Census in November 2026. By mastering these international frameworks, staff are ensuring that the 2026 Census and any surveys will be conducted with the highest standards of efficiency and accuracy.
In keeping with Tongan traditions, the program commenced and concluded with a prayer led by Rev. Tupou Manitisa of the Mo’ui Foóu‘Ia Kalaisi, centering the week’s efforts on a spirit of service and gratitude.
The opening ceremony featured a historic visit by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Minister Responsible for Statistics, Hon. Lata ‘i Faingata‘a Tangimana. In an inspiring keynote address, the Minister invoked the Tongan proverb “Lau matangi fai ‘i fale,” cautioning against estimating economic performance from an office without “feeling” the people’s reality. He issued a clear call to action, emphasising that government success depends on timely, accurate data for effective decision-making.
Acknowledgment of Distinguished Guests and Partners
The TSD wishes to extend its deepest gratitude to the key stakeholders whose presence and support underscored the importance of this training:
- Ms Catherine Taylor, Acting First Secretary to the New Zealand High Commission.
- Governor Tatafu Moeaki of the National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT).
- Mr Mesuilame Vea, Chief Economist from the National Planning Division, Prime Minister’s Office
- Ms Mefilina Tohi, Chief Manager, Economics & Financial Institution from the NRBT.
The participation of our key users, specifically the National Planning Division, the Ministry of Finance (MoF), and the National Reserve Bank is vital. Their involvement serves as a constant reminder that TSD’s primary mission is to produce demand drive statistics that empowers policymakers to make informed decisions for the Kingdom.
This training represents a powerhouse partnership aimed at elevating Tonga’s statistical standards to a global level:
Statistics New Zealand (Stats NZ) provided world-class technical expertise.
- The Pacific Community (SPC) strengthened regional data capability.
- The World Bank / SICBT Project drove innovative and sustainable development through data.
Under the guidance of facilitators Dr Ofa Ketu‘u, Mr Matthew Flanagan, and Ms Maria Musudroka, participants applied these models to “real-world” Tongan scenarios through a hands-on mini project. As the TSD resets its priorities for the remainder of 2026, it does so with a renewed commitment to ensuring every statistic serves as a reliable heartbeat for the Kingdom’s future.