05/06/2026
The Honorable Hamoa Holona, Minister for Sport, together with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development, the Director of Education, and senior government officials, warmly welcomed Australia's Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honorable Samantha Mostyn, to Nauti Primary School.
Her Excellency and her delegation were greeted with a vibrant display of Tuvaluan culture, including the traditional Nauti welcoming ceremonial chant, "Te Manini...", and had the opportunity to witness the school's preparations and activities.
In his welcoming remarks, Honourable Minister Holona described the visit as a truly significant and historic occasion that resonates deeply across Tuvalu's nine islands. He noted that the presence of Her Excellency and her delegation at Nauti Primary School stands as a powerful and cherished symbol of the strong, enduring, and close relationship between Tuvalu and the Commonwealth of Australia.
The Minister extended his warmest appreciation to the Australian Government for its generous donation of essential school equipment, highlighting its valuable contribution to the education sector. He also acknowledged the significance of the gathering, which marked the official launch of the Tuvalu National Sport Policy 2026โ2030, a landmark framework that will guide the future development of sport across the nation.
Honourable Minister Holona conveyed the heartfelt gratitude of Tuvalu's young athletes, sporting communities, and the Ministry for the substantial support provided through the Australian Volunteers Program in the formulation of the National Sport Policy. He emphasized that the policy reflects a shared vision for strengthening participation, governance, and opportunities in sport throughout the country.
Highlighting one of the policy's four strategic pillars, the Minister announced that a key milestone under the new framework is the Government of Tuvalu's firm commitment to upgrading and developing the National Sports Ground, a project expected to enhance sporting opportunities and facilities for future generations.
In concluding his remarks, Honorable Minister Holona expressed his deep appreciation for Her Excellency's commitment to the children and youth of Tuvalu. He stated that Australia's continued support for both education and sport is deeply valued and will leave a lasting legacy that will be remembered by generations to come