Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 21, 2024 – UNICEF Pacific Deputy Representative, Ms. Roshni Bashu, along with UNICEF Chief of Mission in Micronesia, Mr. Cromwell Bacarezza, and UNICEF staff, recently visited Pohnpei State to strengthen collaboration and express gratitude for the ongoing partnership. The visit included discussions with Governor Joseph, who welcomed the UNICEF team’s support, particularly in matters concerning children and drought response efforts.
During the courtesy call, Deputy Representative Bashu expressed gratitude to Governor Joseph for the trust placed in UNICEF, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to expanding its team and providing continuous support for the people of Pohnpei.
Governor Joseph who was joined by First Lady Dr. AIna Garstang, Director of the Department of Education, Mr. Stanley Etse, and Chief of Social Services Noriekka Lekka reciprocated the appreciation, acknowledging UNICEF as a team of experts and expressing gratitude for their assistance, especially in responding to drought-related challenges. He emphasized the importance of Pohnpeian culture in caring for children and reassured the UNICEF team of the state’s commitment to moving forward, even if progress may be gradual at times.
Chief Bacarezza shared insights into UNICEF’s current programs, highlighting initiatives related to health, nutrition, and social services. He highlighted UNICEF’s culture-driven approach and spoke of ongoing programs, including assistance with hygiene kits to outer islands, solarization initiatives, child protection policy collaboration with Pohnpei State social services, and efforts to extend maternity leave to six weeks and ongoing projects, such as addressing health and malnutrition issues and collaborating with the state government on various fronts, including the census. Chief Bacarezza stressed the organization’s focus on culturally sensitive approaches, a sentiment that resonated with Governor Joseph, who noted that Pohnpeians live their culture daily.
In a collaborative effort, Governor Joseph shared that Pohnpei State has drafted a food security policy and expressed hope that UNICEF would review and contribute to the policy. The governor emphasized the significance of incorporating local foods to prevent non-communicable diseases and enhance nutrition efforts.
The courtesy call concluded with mutual appreciation for the partnership and a shared commitment to working together for the well-being of the children and communities in Pohnpei State.