First Tongan appointed Director-General of the Pacific Community
22 October 2025
Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa - Centre for Pacific and Global Health governing council member Dr Paula Vivili in new leadership role.
The appointment of Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa - Centre for Pacific and Global Health governing council member Dr Paula Vivili as the 23rd Director-General of the Pacific Community, previously known as SPC, marks an historic milestone as the first Tongan to lead the organisation.
Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa Co-Director Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga welcomed the appointment and says it signals a powerful moment for Pacific-led solutions in regional and global health, sustainable development and climate resilience.
Sir Collin, who has worked alongside Dr Vivili for many years, remarked that his strong work ethic and integrity will serve SPC well.
“His leadership, alongside figures such as Dr Saia Piukala (WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific), reflects a growing momentum for Pacific voices shaping the future of the region.”
His appointment signals a powerful moment for Pacific-led solutions in regional and global health, sustainable development and climate resilience.
Sir Collin, a former Director-General of SPC, offered his heartfelt congratulations:
“This is an historic appointment—the first Tongan to hold this role. Having served in this position, I understand firsthand the mantle of responsibility and the unique opportunity it offers. Dr Vivili brings a wealth of experience and this will be great for SPC and the region.
“We look forward to supporting Dr Vivili’s leadership on regional challenges and exploring collaborative opportunities, including joint initiatives between SPC and Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa.”
Vivili’s appointment was announced by HRH Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ‘Ulukalala at the conclusion of the 14th Pacific Community Conference in Nuku‘alofa, Tonga. He will assume the role next month, succeeding Dr Stuart Minchin.
Vivili has served SPC for over a decade, including five years as Deputy Director-General, Science and Capability, and six years as Director of the Public Health Division. Prior to joining SPC, he worked for Tonga’s Ministry of Health for nearly 20 years.
He holds qualifications in:
• Human Nutrition (University of Otago)
• Medicine (Fiji School of Medicine and University of the South Pacific)
• Ophthalmology (University of Auckland and Auckland City Hospital)
• International Public Health (University of Sydney)
Vivili is also an honorary fellow of the New Zealand College of Public Health Medicine.
“It is an honour and a privilege to be given the trust of the members to serve the Pacific Community as Director-General,” said Dr Vivili.
“I look forward to working with the members, partners, and the very talented staff to progress SPC’s vision. I look forward to times of reflection, consultation and collective decision making and actions to take our work to the next level, building on the solid results left behind by Dr Minchin.”