Opinion Piece: Transparency and Accountability Needed for Tapanekale Housing Project
The Tapanekale Housing Project, launched with the noble aim of alleviating extreme poverty in Tonga, was initially approved in April 2023 and officially inaugurated in January 2024. While it represents a commendable step towards providing shelter and hope for families in dire need, questions linger about its execution, transparency, and overall impact.
The initiative was meant to address the dire housing conditions of over 200 families living in extreme poverty. Yet, nearly two years after its approval, only 12 families have been housed, with 9 more expected to move into their new homes by Christmas. These figures fall far short of the promised 200 homes. While progress has been made, the pace and scope of the project raise concerns about its ability to meet its stated goals.
The recent announcement that 50 homes built for the Pacific Islands Leaders’ Forum in August will now be allocated to this project underscores the need for flexibility but also highlights an apparent lack of prior planning. Were these homes always intended for this purpose, or is this a reactive measure to cover gaps in execution? Such questions demand answers.
A significant point of contention is the lack of transparency regarding the criteria used to select beneficiaries. While the 2021 Population Census and Household Income and Expenditure Survey provided a basis for identifying households in extreme poverty, the project team has not clarified how the final list of beneficiaries was determined. This leaves room for doubt and potential accusations of favouritism or inequity in allocation.
Moreover, the project’s reliance on land ownership as a critical criterion poses another challenge. Many of the most vulnerable families do not own land, living instead on relatives’ plots. Although the government’s efforts to address these land issues are commendable, a clear timeline or detailed plan is needed to ensure equitable access to housing.
Certification Concerns and Readiness Issues
The images shared with the press release highlight some of the houses built under the project, but these homes reportedly still require certification before families can move in. This raises questions about their readiness and whether the timelines presented are realistic. Furthermore, it remains unclear how the designs accommodate the diverse needs of families in extreme poverty. Such details are critical for assessing the project’s effectiveness.
To address these gaps and ensure the project’s success, the new government should prioritize publishing detailed reports that provide clear updates on the project’s progress, including the selection process, funding allocations, and timelines. Engaging with local communities, NGOs, and civil society is essential to ensure equitable distribution and effectively resolve land disputes. Additionally, establishing measurable goals and benchmarks will foster trust and accountability.
Taking these steps will not only restore public confidence but also help the project achieve its original vision of eradicating extreme poverty in Tonga.
This initiative aligns with Tonga’s commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal of eradicating poverty. However, the lack of detailed reporting and delayed execution undermines its credibility. Public accountability is crucial in projects of this magnitude, particularly when addressing fundamental issues like poverty and housing.
The Tapanekale Housing Project has the potential to transform lives and set a precedent for tackling extreme poverty in Tonga. While celebrating the progress made—the families who now have a roof over their heads—we must hold both the former and current governments accountable for ensuring the initiative delivers on its promises. Transparency, equity, and efficiency are essential to fulfilling this vision. Tonga’s most vulnerable deserve no less.
Melino Maka
