Courtesy Visit of FSM-China Pilot Farm Project Leaders to Governor Joseph: A Vision for Sustainable Agricultural Development

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 28, 2024 – The Office of the Governor played host to distinguished guests from the FSM-China Pilot Farm project. Mr. Hu Xunxiang, the project leader, accompanied by Coordinator Mr. Liu Xiongping, Mr. Eugene Eperiam, Acting Director of the Department of Resources and Development, and Mr. Edward Roland, engaged in a productive courtesy visit with Governor Stevenson A. Joseph.

The meeting commenced with warm greetings and introductions, setting the stage for a constructive dialogue on the progress and future direction of the China Pilot Farm project. Mr. Hu, with translation assistance from Mr. Liu, informed Governor Joseph that the project, situated at Pohnlangas, Madolenihmw, is currently in its 2nd year of the 12th phase, which began in 1998.

Mr. Hu discussed the imminent completion of the 12th phase in about a year and emphasized the necessity of submitting a proposal at the end of each phase to secure the continuity of the project. He expressed that this juncture provides an opportune moment to infuse new ideas into the project, inviting Governor Joseph’s input for its future trajectory.

The three focal areas of the project – vegetable cultivation, Bio-Gas digesters (with 50 currently on the island), and livestock (primarily pigs) – were highlighted by Mr. Hu. He also shared plans for an artificial insemination station near Kolonia and the construction of greenhouses, 12 of which are yet to be erected.

Governor Joseph, while expressing appreciation for the ongoing efforts, inquired about the possibility of installing greenhouses at elementary schools, recognizing the importance of integrating agriculture education at an early stage. Additionally, he raised concerns about the prolonged “pilot” status of the project since its initiation in 1998.

Governor Joseph proposed a forward-thinking approach, suggesting a phase where the technical expertise developed at the Pilot Farm could be disseminated across all Municipalities. This envisioned scenario involves teams of agricultural experts training local populations in their respective municipalities, fostering a decentralized and sustainable model of agricultural development.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further collaborative discussions, focusing on integrating innovative ideas into the project’s future phases and exploring avenues for wider knowledge sharing and skills transfer across all municipalities.