Dr. Sivendra Michael Assumes Key Role as Permanent Secretary for Tonga’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change
In a congratulatory gesture, Hon. Hu’akavameiliku, Prime Minister of Tonga, extended warm wishes to Dr. Sivendra Michael on his recent appointment as the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. Dr. Michael, previously deployed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as a Disaster Risk Reduction Advisor, played a pivotal role in supporting Tonga’s Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change, and Communications (MEIDECC) in the aftermath of the Hunga-Tonga Hunga-Haapai volcanic eruption and tsunami event in August 2022.
Dr. Michael, recognized for his commitment and dedication to his field, garnered widespread respect across the Tongan Government and beyond. His leadership and guidance during his tenure were instrumental in advancing the National Disaster Risk Management Office’s (NDRMO) significant agenda, earning commendation for his drive towards achieving tangible results.
Among Dr. Michael’s notable achievements in recent months are:
- Technical advisory support for the finalization and approval of Tonga’s DRM Policy 2023-2030 and DRM Act 2021.
- Support for the operationalization of policies and development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and Guidelines for Damage Assessment.
- Digitization of the Initial Damage Assessment in collaboration with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA).
- Strengthening NDRMO staff capacity through various learning exchanges.
- Finalization of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Proposal submission for Tonga’s Coastal Resilience Project through UNDP.
- Technical advisory support for Tonga’s delegation at the 2022 Asia-Pacific Ministerial for Disaster Risk Reduction.
- Technical advisory support for Tonga’s delegation at the Mid-Term Review of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.
- Technical advisory support for the 2022 National Planners Forum.
Speaking during Tonga’s COP-28 preparatory meeting, Mr. Paula Mau, Chief Secretary and Secretary to Cabinet, expressed confidence that Dr. Michael’s leadership would amplify the Pacific’s climate change and environmental priorities. He highlighted Dr. Michael’s impressive track record, stating, “Your work speaks for itself, and I can vouch that you will handle any challenges that you face because I and all your peers have seen your work ethics.”
Acknowledging Dr. Michael’s departure, Mr. Sione Akauola, CEO of MEIDECC, remarked on the energetic drive that will be missed in Tonga. He expressed confidence in Dr. Michael’s ability to advance the country’s visions and assured that his success would be synonymous with the success of the Pacific region. The staff of MEIDECC looks forward to continued cooperation with the Government of Fiji to collectively advance the regional climate change and environment agenda.
