The decision was made by the Tonga Sports Association and National Olympic Committee (TASANOC) as they look to improve their results at multi-sport events.

Afeaki, who has played professional rugby in New Zealand, France, Japan and Singapore during his career, accepted an invitation from the TASANOC Executive Board to take up the post.

The rugby player, whose career spanned 15 years, will now be tasked with rebuilding and strengthening programmes and activities for Tongan athletes.

Raising the level of performance from various national federations and its respective elite athletes has been cited as being a key reason behind the move.

It is hoped the efforts will enable Tonga’s delegation for future editions of the Pacific Games and Pacific Mini Games to be better prepared, having had higher quality training.

Improving performances at future editions of the Commonwealth and Olympic Games are also central to the appointment, with their youth events also highlighted as a priority.

“This is an opportunity for TASANOC to re-connect with its members and national federations through the expertise and experience of Afeaki both administratively and operational,” said TASANOC secretary general Takitoa Taumoepeau.

“TASANOC is very happy and fortunate to secure the service of Afeaki with his wealth of experience in sports administration and related areas.”

It has been confirmed that Afeaki has been appointed through to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

Afeaki’s first priority will be to help prepare the Tongan delegation for the Pacific Mini Games, which are scheduled to take place in Vanuatu during December.