NUKU'ALOFA, May 1, 2026- Thousands of Tongans will see more reliable access to jobs, markets, and essential services as new support strengthens resilient roads, bridges, and urban infrastructure on Tongatapu. A new project will help reduce flooding, keep transport links open during extreme weather, and protect the economic activity that communities depend on.
The Tonga Sustainable Economic Corridors and Urban Resilience Project is made possible through a strong partnership between the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, and the Government of Tonga. The World Bank has approved US$40 million in grant financing through the International Development Association (IDA), while the Asian Development Bank and the Tongan Government are contributing an additional US$80 million and US$25 million, respectively. Together, these contributions bring the total project financing to US$145 million.
The project will finance a new climate-resilient bridge and upgraded roads to improve access and emergency response, creating a more direct and efficient link between the airport and port, alongside drainage and water management systems to reduce flooding in key urban areas. Together, these investments will help reduce disruptions, protect livelihoods, and support Tonga's long-term growth.
"This investment will strengthen critical infrastructure while enhancing safety and connectivity for our people," said Prime Minister of Tonga, Lord Fatafehi Fakafānua. "It will help ensure that individuals can get to work in less time, communities are better connected, and families are able to move safely, including evacuating when necessary during natural disasters."
The project is being delivered in close partnership with the Asian Development Bank through a new approach that allows both institutions to work as one on a project. Instead of separate processes, the project uses one set of rules and one lead partner for preparation and implementation. This reduces duplication, speeds up delivery, and helps ensure support reaches communities faster.
"This is about keeping people moving and connected to opportunity," said Stephen Ndegwa, World Bank Division Director for the South and North Pacific. "By working in close partnership, we are helping Tonga invest in infrastructure that will support jobs during its construction and, when completed, promote more investment and business."
Under the new approach, the Asian Development Bank is leading project preparation and implementation, while the World Bank is providing financing alongside it. This approach brings both institutions' strengths into a single, coordinated program with faster results and clearer benefits for Tongans.
