LocationsFostering a collaborative approach to strengthening transparent Constituency Development Funds in Tonga
August 28, 2023
In Tonga, despite constituency funds having existed in some form for over two decades, specific guidelines about their implementation and delivery were not drafted and passed until 2016.
Nuku’alofa, Tonga - Vigorous exchange of analysis and insights has taken place in Tonga to strengthen transparency and the overall effectiveness of the country’s Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in Tonga.
A range of key stakeholders, including Parliamentarians, the Minister of Finance, and Tonga’s Auditor General engaged in a series of discussions coordinated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Vaka Pasifika project, funded by the European Union (EU) in partnership with the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (PIANGO), and the Civil Society Forum of Tonga (CSFT) from 22-29 August.
This multi-stakeholder event aimed at fostering collaborative discussions, sharing insights, and developing innovative strategies to strengthen the effectiveness of CDFs that equitably benefit local communities. Participants engaged in an exchange of views, looking into challenges, opportunities, and recommendations for enhancing CDF transparency and effectiveness in the Tongan context.
The insights and recommendations from a comprehensive and comparative regional research study on CDFs in Tonga, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea were shared with participants, contributing to enhance a broader understanding of CDF dynamics and challenges across the Pacific.
Mr. Sefita Tangi, Auditor General of Tonga (center-right), with fellow workshop participants.
In Tonga, despite constituency funds having existed in some form for over two decades, specific guidelines about their implementation and delivery were not drafted and passed until 2016. This new legislation saw management of the system transferred to the Parliament of Tonga. This policy has been revised several times since and now covers grant funding agreement, with the terms and conditions for disbursement, use, and reporting.
Most recently, a grant funding agreement was put in place to create stronger checks and balances, and a more comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework.
Honourable Tiofilusi Tiueti, Minister of Finance said, “Enhancing prudent management of public funds by involving community groups alongside government agencies is crucial for making sure that funds are used wisely for the real needs of our communities. This helps drive fair progress. By combining information from local, regional studies and including everyone interested, both from community groups and the government, we aim for a better way of handling money.
“In this way, we can improve how funds are managed, reduce duplicating efforts, and help communities grow more sustainably," said Honourable Tiueti.
CDFs are a vital mechanism that bridges the gap between central government revenue and local needs, addressing development challenges and empowering communities. However, issues surrounding transparency, accountability, and equitable distribution have often been raised.
Mr. Sefita Tangi, Auditor General of Tonga said, “The audit of the CDFs for the 17 constituencies has been completed, reflecting our unwavering commitment to accountability, transparency and responsible using of public funds. The CDFs’ audit reports provide vital insights that will not only guide us in further enhancing the effectiveness of CDFs but also reinforce the paramount importance of robust oversight and accountability mechanisms within the utilization of CDFs."
During the discussions, potential pilot initiatives were identified that could test innovative approaches to addressing key challenges and gaps in CDF implementation. These pilot projects were carefully crafted based on stakeholder insights and research findings to provide practical, actionable solutions that can be applied on the ground.
Ms Tita Kara from CSFT said civil society is a driving force in advocating for community needs.
Civil society in Tonga has been playing a vital role in ensuring the effective management of CDFs.
Ms. Tita Kara from CSFT said, "Civil society is a driving force in advocating for community needs. This workshop empowered civil society organizations to actively contribute to moulding CDFs that truly address grassroots concerns, thereby empowering communities and fostering equitable development.
“This event serves as a platform for diverse stakeholders to contribute their insights and collectively shape the future of CDFs in Tonga. We are excited about the potential positive impact this initiative can bring to our communities," added Ms. Kara.
Mr. Rustam Pulatov, Team Leader for Inclusive Governance & Effective Growth, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji assured that the Vaka Pasifika project's commitment to the strengthening of CDFs in the Tongan context remains steadfast.
“Through enhanced collaboration with Members of Parliament, the government, Supreme Audit Institutions, CSOs, media, and all relevant stakeholders, these joint efforts are dedicated to propelling the progress of public finance management in Tonga,” said Mr. Pulatov.
By forging stronger partnerships and fostering collaborative endeavours, the wider stakeholders share the goal of amplifying transparency, ensuring accountability, and championing citizen-centric strategies in budgeting and resource allocation. This united effort will be further geared towards fostering sustainable development and enhancing the well-being of the Tongan population.
For more information, please contact:
Anhela Bochi, PFM Technical Specialist, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | anhela.bochi@undp.org | +679 312 500
