Minister Fituafe on the far right with Ambassador O’Byrne second from the left… Source:MAT
As part of the close partnership between Tonga and Australia, a five-day visit from Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality, Michelle O’Byrne to Tonga is underway as part of their shared commitment to supporting inclusive, resilient and prosperous communities.
Ambassador O’Byrne’s visit solely focuses on women empowerment and creating an engaging platform for women in all walks of life playing a leadership role.
According to the Media Association of Tonga or MAT, Ambassador O’Byrne’s visit had a joint program in Vava’u and Tongatapu focusing on women leadership, following the launch of the Government of Tonga’s Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality Tonga Policy and the recent National Women’s Fono, which brought together women from across the Kingdom to identify priorities for Tonga’s future.
The program will include engagements with current and emerging women leaders, former political candidates, school students and stakeholders working to advance women’s leadership, disability inclusion and social inclusion. Ambassador O’Byrne will also participate in a Women, Peace and Security roundtable with Tonga Police, His Majesty’s Armed Forces and civil society representatives.
Welcoming Ambassador O’Byrne to the Kingdom and joining her schedule was none other than the Honorable Minister of Internal Affairs, Ms. Fane Fituafe but a current key figure in Tongan women leadership.
Ms O’Byrne ministerial portfolios have spanned women and the prevention of family violence, education, workplace relations, emergency services, communities and economic development.