On 15 January, a violent eruption occurred at the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha’api volcano in Tonga, caused a Pacific-wide tsunami and released a cloud of ash billowing more than 20km high.
In response to the devastation in Tonga, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has launched an emergency appeal of 2.5 million Swiss Francs (approx. £2m) to provide urgent assistance including safe water, tarpaulins, shelter materials- including tool kits to rebuild, household items- such as kitchen cooking sets and hygiene kits.
To help the IFRC reach its target, Six Nations Rugby, which is comprised of all six Unions and Federations, has confirmed it will make a £100,000 donation to the Tonga relief efforts.
Six Nations Rugby will also be working with its Unions and Federations to use the platform of the 2022 Guinness Six Nations, to highlight how the wider rugby community can come together for Tonga.
A dedicated webpage containing all relevant information has been set up, providing details and instructions on how to support Tonga, or make donations to the IFRC: https://www.sixnationsrugby.com/tonga
Six Nations Rugby, its Unions and Federations will also be rolling out digital and in stadia activity to raise awareness for the campaign. Fans can keep up to date with the campaign, by following Six Nations Rugby accounts across social media and #TogetherForTonga
The 2022 Guinness Six Nations kicks off on the 5th February, when Ireland host Wales, Scotland welcome England, and France then take on Italy on the 6th February.
