May 22, 2024

Kolonia, Pohnpei: April 15, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph expressed his deepest condolences to the family of the late Mr. Kiyoshi Goto, a beloved and generous businessman whose philanthropic endeavors touched the lives of countless individuals throughout Pohnpei. In a heartfelt letter addressed to Mr. Goto’s daughter and family, Governor Joseph conveyed his profound sympathy and admiration for the remarkable legacy left behind by Mr. Goto. Mr. Kiyoshi Goto was not only known for his business success but also revered for his kindness and generosity towards the people of Pohnpei. Over the years, he selflessly blessed the community with numerous acts of generosity, including the donation of a school bus for Kolonia Early Childhood Education, annual contributions to disabled students during Christmas, and countless donations of food to institutions such as the Pohnpei State Hospital and the Pohnpei State Corrections and Rehabilitation Division. Additionally, Mr. Goto consistently answered the call for donations by the Pohnpei State Government, providing vital assistance during emergency situations on the outer islands. In his letter of condolence, Governor Joseph highlighted Mr. Goto’s exemplary character, describing him as a true role model who embodied the values of hard work, dedication, and integrity. He acknowledged Mr. Goto’s entrepreneurial spirit and visionary leadership, which not only contributed to the growth of Pohnpei’s economy but also left a lasting impact on the community. Governor Joseph expressed his confidence that Mr. Goto’s legacy will endure through the foundations he laid for his children to carry forward. As Pohnpei mourns the loss of a cherished benefactor, Governor Joseph extended his heartfelt sympathies to his bereaved family. Mr. Goto’s legacy of compassion and generosity will forever remain ingrained in the hearts of the people he touched.    

Kolonia, Pohnpei: April 15, 2024 – Mr. Johnny Musrasrik from the National Weather Services, Pohnpei branch, paid a visit to Governor Stevenson A. Joseph to discuss a pioneering Tsunami awareness initiative. Mr. Musrasrik presented a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining the initiative, which aims to raise awareness about Tsunami risks and promote safety measures within the community. During the meeting, Mr. Musrasrik informed Governor Joseph of the comprehensive Tsunami awareness initiative, which includes the installation of signage across strategic locations in Pohnpei. These signs will serve as vital tools in educating the public about Tsunami risks and ensuring swift responses in the event of an emergency. Recognizing the significance of this initiative, Governor Joseph welcomed Mr. Musrasrik and received the MOU for review by the State Attorney General and relevant departments. Governor Joseph emphasized the importance of Tsunami and weather awareness expressing his commitment to supporting efforts to safeguard the lives and property of Pohnpei residents. Moreover, Governor Joseph sought Mr. Musrasrik’s assistance in obtaining infrastructure specifications for Tsunami and weather-related incidents. By leveraging the requested information, the State Government aims to enhance its preparedness and response capabilities in the face of natural disasters. An official launch of the Tsunami awareness initiative is planned for later this month, marking a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to disaster preparedness and community safety.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: April 12, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph convened a crucial meeting to address the pressing challenges facing Pohnpei’s environmental conservation efforts. Joined by key stakeholders from the State Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW), Municipal Governments, community leaders, and NGO partners, Governor Joseph emphasized the urgent need for strengthened collaboration to protect the island’s precious natural resources. For over a decade, the State DFW has been working hand-in-hand with the Conservation Society of Pohnpei (CSP) and OneReef Micronesia to enhance enforcement effectiveness and community stewardship within the Pohnpei Protected Areas Network. However, faced with increasing threats such as overfishing and upland forest degradation due to sakau farming practices, a united effort to effectively face these threats is needed. During the meeting, Governor Joseph highlighted the shared responsibility of safeguarding Pohnpei’s environment. “This must be a shared responsibility for Pohnpei State, Municipal Governments, community leaders, and NGO partners. This is our responsibility together, “he stated to those present including the Acting Chief of DFW Ioanis, Chiefs of Municipal Police Departments and local police officers, Pohnpei Community Conservation Officers Networks representatives: Nahlaimw Sokehs, Kuloap Madolenihmw, Soumas Lepen Madau en Metipw and NGO partners CSP and OneReef. Governor Joseph supported the establishment of a more formalized coordination mechanism, known as the Enforcement Reserve Program, to strengthen joint law enforcement agreements and mobilize resources for capacity training. The Governor urged all stakeholders to work together towards this common goal. Acknowledging the importance of partnership, Governor Joseph expressed gratitude to NGO partners such as the Conservation Society of Pohnpei and OneReef, as well as other supporting organizations including Micronesia Conservation Trust and The Nature Conservancy. He emphasized the necessity of collective investment to effectively manage Pohnpei’s Protected Areas Network and improve community compliance and enforcement. The support and commitment of all stakeholders present at the meeting are vital in ensuring the sustainable management of Pohnpei’s natural resources. Governor Joseph concluded by reaffirming his duty to protect Pohnpei’s land and sea, underscoring the significance of collaborative efforts in fulfilling this responsibility. The support of CSP and OneReef to State DFW also respects and acknowledges the support of Micronesia Conservation Trust, Pacific Islands Marine Protected Areas Community, The Nature Conservancy, USAID Our Fish Our Future initiative, Locally Managed Marine Area and other partners on their important contributions. The work towards effective management of the Protected Areas Network in Pohnpei and Micronesia to improve community compliance and effective enforcement required partnership investments from all partners.