September 6, 2024

Palikir, Pohnpei—September 3, 2024—The Pohnpei State Government extends its deepest gratitude to the Government and people of Japan for their unwavering support and generous economic and social assistance, specifically in the advancement of the Pohnpei Port Expansion Project. This crucial initiative marks a significant milestone in Pohnpei’s efforts to enhance maritime logistics and ensure the safety and efficiency of its port operations. The signing ceremony for the project was held in Palikir on September 3, 2024, where key representatives from both the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and Japan gathered to formalize this partnership. The Pohnpei Port Authority General Manager Grilly Jack, along with Seaport Manager Baron Mendiola and Facilities Manager Bronson Sam represented the Pohnpei State Government, while Japan’s esteemed Ambassador, His Excellency Nobuo Kagomiya, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) resident representative, Mr. Kunihiro Yamauchi, represented the Government of Japan. Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Officer in Charge, Lorin S. Robert, signed the agreement on behalf of the FSM National Government. The expansion project, valued at 4.597 billion yen, includes the construction of a new quay equipped with vessel mooring facilities and is expected to significantly ease congestion, improve safety, and enhance the overall efficiency of maritime logistics. This will not only benefit Pohnpei but will also contribute to the broader economic growth and sustainability of the FSM. The Pohnpei State Government looks forward to the successful implementation of this project and to further strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation with Japan. For more information on this grant assistance visit: https://www.mofa.go.jp/…/rel…/pressite_000001_00569.html

The Pohnpei State Government extends its sincere gratitude to the Rutgers University Food Science team for their invaluable visit with Acting Governor Francisco L. Ioanis. Their expertise in Food Systems has been instrumental in shaping our Food Security Policy. We are excited to implement their insights and strengthen food security, not only within Pohnpei but throughout the Federated States of Micronesia. Thank you for your dedication and partnership! #PohnpeiFSM #FoodSecurity #RutgersUniversity #Partnership

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT FROM SOCIAL SERVICES: Sharing the upcoming Liberation Day games starting 9/9 to 9/11 PAKAIR SANSAL – Schedule en Tangatang (Tepida 09/09 lel 09/11) Met iei audepen Kamwadong en Tangatang (Track & Field) me soandier oh pahn doadoahk nan Liberation Day pahr wet. Ni Sept. 11, 2024…met ongete Tangatang de Kamwadong en nan Mohs kan… Day 1 – Monday: 09/09/2024 – Starts at 05:30 AM Event Round 6:00 AM #1 Men and Women 10,000 Metre Run Senior Finals 7:30 AM #2 Women 100 Metre Sprint Senior Heats 8:00 AM #3 Men 100 Metre Sprint Senior Heats 8:30 AM #4 Women 400 Metre Sprint Heats 9:00 AM #5 Men 400 Metre Sprint Heats 9:30 AM #6 Women 60 Metre Sprint Under 18 Heats 10:00 AM #7 Men 60 Metre Sprint Under 18 Heats —————Break————————————— 4:00 PM #8 Women 100 Metre Sprint Senior Finals 4:30 PM #9 Men 100 Metre Sprint Senior Finals 5:00 PM #10 Women Discus Senior Finals 5:30 PM #11 Men Discus Senior Finals 6:00 PM #12 Women 800 Metre Senior Finals 6:05 PM #13 Men 800 Metre Senior Finals 6:10 PM #14 Women 60 Metre Under 18 Finals 6:15 PM #15 Men 60 Metre Under 18 Finals 6:30 PM #16 Women 4×400 Metre Relay Senior Finals 6:45 PM #17 Men 4×400 Metre Relay Senior Finals Day 2 – Tuesday 09/10/2024 – Starts at 05:30AM Event Round 6:00 AM #18 Women and Men 5,000 Metre Run Finals 7:00 AM #19 Women 200 Metre Heats Senior 7:05 AM #20 Men 200 Metre Heats Senior 7:30 AM #21 Women 100 Metre Under 18 Heats 7:35 AM #22 Men 100 Metre Under 18 Heats ———————-Break——————————– 4:00 PM #23 Women 200 Metre Sprint Finals Senior 4:05 PM #24 Men 200 Metre Sprint Finals Senior 5:00 PM #25 Women Javelin Senior Finals 5:30 PM #26 Men Javelin Senior Finals 6:00 PM #27 Women Long Jump Senior Finals 6:30 PM #28 Men Long Jump Senior Finals 7:00 PM #29 Women 100 Metre Under 18 Finals 7:05 PM #30 Men 100 Metre Under 18 Finals 7:25 PM #31 Women 4×400 Medley Relay Senior Finals 7:30 PM #32 Men 4 x 400 Medley Relay Senior Finals Day 3 – Wednesday 09/11/2024 – Starts at 03:00 PM Event Round 3:30 PM #33 Women Shotput Senior Finals 4:00 AM #34 Men Shotput Senior Finals 4:30 PM #35 Women 400 Metre Sprint Senior Finals 4:35 PM #36 Men 400 Metre Sprint Senior Finals 5:00 PM #37 Women Triple Jump Senior Finals 5:30 PM #38 Men Triple Jump Senior Finals 6:00 PM #39 Women 1500 Metre Run Senior Finals Finals 6:05 PM #40 Finals1500 Metre Run Senior Finals 6:30 PM #41 Women 4 X 100 Metre Relay Senior Finals 6:40 PM #42 Men 4 X 100 Metre Relay Senior Finals

KOLONIA, POHNPEI: August 21, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph received a courtesy call from the newly established Transportation Data Management Unit (TDMU) at the National Government. The TDMU, tasked with collecting and managing data on road infrastructure across the nation, aims to provide invaluable support for transportation management and infrastructure development. During the meeting, TDMU representatives outlined their primary objectives, which include: Data Collection and Management: Gathering comprehensive data on all roads, including their condition, location, and characteristics, to support effective transportation management. Network-Level Data: Collecting data on a network level, providing a holistic view of the country’s road infrastructure. Island-Wide Coverage: Ensuring that data is collected for all roads on every island, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Data Source for Transportation: Serving as a definitive source of transportation data, informing decision-making and planning. Centralized Database: Housing all collected data in a centralized database for easy access and analysis. Informed Decision-Making: Assisting in the decision-making process regarding road maintenance, planning, and infrastructure development. Maintenance Planning: Supporting the planning of road maintenance activities, including when, where, and how to prioritize repairs. Consultancy Services: Providing consultancy services related to road asset management systems. Ownership: Taking ownership of the collected data and ensuring its ongoing management. Governor Joseph expressed his gratitude for the establishment of the TDMU and emphasized the importance of data collection in addressing the nation and Pohnpei’s transportation challenges. He acknowledged the need for a comprehensive database to inform decision-making and ensure efficient allocation of resources. The Governor also highlighted the potential of the TDMU’s data to inform the Legislature and Congress regarding the allocation of funds for road infrastructure. By providing evidence-based information on road conditions, the TDMU can support the prioritization of preventive and periodic maintenance, ultimately leading to more efficient and cost-effective road managem

Kolonia, Pohnpei: August 20, 2024 – Officials from the Sapwaufik Municipal Government, including Senator Stevick Edwin, who represents Sapwaufik in the 11th Pohnpei Legislature, visited the Office of the Governor to discuss the recent disbursement of funds allocated for damages caused by the recent El Niño and saltwater inundation in Sapwaufik. The meeting provided an opportunity to clarify the use of funds in the amount of $35,590.85 that were specifically earmarked for damages identified during the assessments conducted by Pohnpei State Government officials, provided through the National Government. These assessments were part of a broader response to the environmental challenges posed by the saltwater inundation, which severely affected the Sapwaufik community. Governor Stevenson A. Joseph expressed his continued commitment to ensuring that the funds are used effectively to address the needs of those impacted in Sapwaufik and across Pohnpei. He also emphasized the importance of transparent communication between state and municipal governments in managing disaster relief and recovery efforts and thanked Senator Edwin and the Sapwaufik Municipal Government officials for seeking clarity with government funds. The Pohnpei State Government remains dedicated to supporting all municipalities affected by natural disasters and will continue to work closely with local officials to ensure that assistance is provided promptly and efficiently.

Kolonia, Pohnpei—August 26, 2024—Governor Stevenson A. Joseph welcomed a delegation from St. Luke’s Hospital in the Republic of the Philippines for a courtesy call at the Governor’s Office, accompanied by Mr. Stuard Penias, Director of the Department of Health and Social Services. The delegation from St. Luke’s included Dr. Anthony Perez, Medical Director; Ms. Veggie Flores, Senior Vice President of Marketing; Ms. Bernadine Pel Go-Le, Manager of Marketing; and Dr. Teresita Canoy, Consultant. The officials were invited by the Health Committee of the 11th Pohnpei Legislature to strengthen ties and enhance healthcare collaborations. During the visit, the delegation expressed their deep gratitude to the people of Pohnpei for their continued partnership with St. Luke’s, which has provided medical services to Pohnpei for many years. They shared the rich history of St. Luke’s Hospital, which has been delivering healthcare for over 100 years and currently operates two hospitals, with a third under construction. St. Luke’s was also proud to be the first hospital in the Philippines to receive Joint Commission International accreditation. They highlighted advanced capabilities, including telemedicine and specialized care such as kidney and liver transplants. Governor Joseph reciprocated the gratitude, acknowledging St. Luke’s for their long-standing service to the people of Pohnpei. Both parties explored avenues to further strengthen their relationship, with discussions on future partnerships in training and expanded medical collaboration. The visit was especially timely, as Governor Joseph is scheduled to depart soon for the Philippines to undergo medical treatment at St. Luke’s Hospital.

KOLONIA, Pohnpei, FSM: August 22, 2024 — In another step forward for the continuing formation of the Joseph-Ioanis administration, two Board members of the Pohnpei Trust Fund and two new members of the Board of Directors of the Pohnpei Transportation Authority were officially sworn in today at the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture (OFA) conference room. Pohnpei Trust Fund: Albert Johnny Thomas Pablo Pohnpei Transportation Authority: Salvason Salvador Cassidy Shoniber Public Affairs Officer Peteriko Hairens served as the Master of Ceremonies, while Executive Liaison Officer Denson David delivered the opening invocation, setting the stage for this significant event. Governor Stevenson A. Joseph had the honor of swearing in the new Board members, while Lt. Governor Francisco L. Ioanis presented certificates of appointment to them. This marked a key moment in the administration’s ongoing efforts to build strong leadership across essential institutions. In his remarks, Lt. Governor Ioanis emphasized the historical significance of this occasion, noting that this is the first time board members of the Pohnpei Trust Fund have been sworn in. He highlighted the importance of the Trust Fund in supporting the future of Pohnpei and expressed gratitude to the Legislature for their advice and consent in the process. Lt. Governor Ioanis also spoke about the Pohnpei Transportation Authority, an organization under his direct oversight, acknowledging the challenges it faces as it continues to navigate through organizational changes. Governor Joseph also thanked the Legislature for their support and commended the new Board members on their appointments, stressing the importance of their roles and the responsibilities they carry. He encouraged them to approach their duties with dedication and reaffirmed his commitment to an open-door policy, welcoming any further discussions as they embark on their new responsibilities. He also mentioned that more nominations will be forthcoming for both boards. This event symbolizes the Joseph-Ioanis administration’s commitment to strengthening Pohnpei’s future through leadership and cooperation, ensuring that vital institutions like the Trust Fund and Transportation Authority are positioned for success.

Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia: August 22, 2024 — The Governor’s Office is pleased to announce that the Madolenihmw Municipal Government has been awarded a grant of $88,100 by the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs (OIA). This grant was awarded through the Technical Assistance Program (TAP) to support the Madolenihmw Municipal Government’s Solid Waste Program for Fiscal Year 2024. The funding, as detailed in the municipality’s February 21, 2024, proposal, aims to enhance solid waste management and collection efforts across the municipality. This program seeks to address the growing need for improved waste handling, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment for the residents of Madolenihmw. The Madolenihmw Municipal Government’s Solid Waste Program is critical in helping the local community tackle waste-related challenges by promoting sustainability and ensuring effective waste collection. The funds will enable the expansion of current efforts and the implementation of new waste management initiatives.

KOLONIA, Pohnpei, FSM: August 21, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph convened a meeting with the local chief executives at the Lieutenant Governor’s Conference Room today, focusing on key development strategies for Pohnpei State. The meeting featured presentations and discussions aimed at aligning state and municipal development efforts. The session began with a presentation by Mr. Churchill Edward, who briefed the attendees on the ongoing progress of Pohnpei’s Strategic Development Plan. Mr. Edward highlighted the importance of ensuring that municipal governments also formulate their strategic development plans in coordination with the broader state objectives. Local chief executives were invited to contribute their insights on the subject, and discussions centered on the necessity of harmonizing efforts to meet shared goals for sustainable development. Mr. Jorg Anson, Administrator of the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture, addressed the group next. He sought the assistance of local leaders in improving data collection efforts regarding fish being caught and sold within their respective jurisdictions. Mr. Anson emphasized the economic importance of the fishing industry, citing an earlier study that estimated fish sold in Kolonia in one year was valued at approximately $1.2 million. He further shared data from Kitti, where one species of fish alone (pwulak) generated over $40,000 in sales over a year. Mr. Anson stressed that reliable data is essential for future policy decisions that can support both local fishermen and broader sustainability efforts. Governor Joseph responded to these presentations by underscoring the challenges that had emerged during the recent State and National Leadership Conference (SNLC) regarding poor data collection and quality. He stressed that accurate data is crucial to making informed, data-driven decisions that impact all levels of government and affect development efforts across the state. The meeting concluded with Governor Joseph presenting checks to the Municipal Chiefs for initial damage assessments following the El Niño weather conditions. The financial support, which totals $143,211.13, was made available through a Presidential Executive Decree administered by the Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Emergency Management (DECEM) in coordination with the Pohnpei State Government. The funds were allocated to help municipalities address damages caused by the El Niño event. The breakdown of the funds dispensed is as follows: Nett: $34,454.24 Sokehs: $19,149.95 Kitti: $37,123.99 U: $19,149.95 Madolenihmw: $26,909.68 Kolonia: $6,423.32 Governor Joseph expressed his appreciation for the ongoing collaboration with the local chiefs and emphasized the importance of continued partnership in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing Pohnpei State.

KOLONIA, Pohnpei, FSM: August 20, 2024 — In a ceremony held today at the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) conference room, Governor Stevenson A. Joseph administered the oath of office to Mr. Alpino Kerman as the new Election Commissioner of Pohnpei State and Mr. Dickson Wichep as a member of the Pohnpei State Board of Land Trustees. The event marks a significant step in ensuring strong leadership in both the electoral process and land management in the state. Lieutenant Governor Francisco L. Ioanis presented the certificates of appointment to both Election Commissioner Kerman and Trustee Wichep following their swearing-in. Governor Joseph expressed his deep gratitude to the Pohnpei State Legislature, specifically thanking Speaker Marvin Yamaguchi and the members of the Legislature for their support in confirming the Governor’s nominations. He also extended his thanks to the appointees for their commitment to taking on such important roles and responsibilities. Representing Speaker Yamaguchi, Senator Dionisio Saimon delivered remarks of gratitude and congratulations to the newly appointed officials. He commended their dedication and readiness to serve the people of Pohnpei and conveyed his confidence in their abilities to fulfill the duties of their respective positions. Closing the ceremony, Lt. Governor Ioanis offered words of encouragement, emphasizing the importance of the roles that the Election Commissioner and Board of Land Trustee hold. He acknowledged the challenging nomination and confirmation process, underscoring the significance of the responsibilities they are entrusted with in serving the state. Congratulations to Election Commissioner Alpino Kerman and Board of Land Trustee, Dickson Wichep.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: August 19, 2024 – In response to the recent power outages that have affected Pohnpei residents, the Governor’s Office would like to update the public on the ongoing efforts of the Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC) to restore stable power across the island. On Thursday, August 15th, 2024, PUC experienced the unfortunate loss of three generator units, Cat No. 1, 2, and 4. Through quick action, the technical team was able to repair and restore Cat No. 1 and Cat No. 2 the same day, putting them back into operation. Cat No. 4, which had caught fire, was also repaired, tested this afternoon, and successfully carried up to 800 kW. However, later that evening, Cat No. 1 encountered another issue. As a result, PUC increased the load on Cat No. 4 to maximum capacity, and test runs will continue throughout the night to ensure optimal performance. Further compounding the challenges, on Sunday, August 18th, 2024, the Kolonia 2 feeder breaker failed in the afternoon, leading to several outages across the island. The load on Kolonia 2 had to be transferred to both the Eastern and Western feeders, leaving only two feeders responsible for carrying the entire island’s power. This put additional strain on the system and reduced overall reliability. PUC also identified a short circuit on the Western Feeder’s phase “A,” contributing to multiple outages. In situations like this, where a short circuit is not easily located, more line patrolling and isolation of switches are required to narrow down the fault area. This necessary work will likely cause further power interruptions, but it is crucial to solving the underlying issue. PUC remains committed to restoring reliable power as soon as possible and appreciates the public’s patience. The corporation assures the community that every effort is being made to address these outages swiftly and minimize their impact on residents. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. For inquiries, please contact the Pohnpei Utilities Corporation at 320-2374

KOLONIA, Pohnpei, FSM: August 17, 2024 — We extend our deepest appreciation to Meninkeder Lapalap Kiumy Albert, Keriau en Meninkeder Lapalap Ricky Mudong, and the dedicated staff of the Madolenihmw Municipal Government for their warm welcome and generous hospitality during the arrival of distinguished leaders on August 16, 2024. President Wesley W. Simina, Governor Stevenson A. Joseph, and the Governors of Chuuk, Yap, and Kosrae were graciously greeted with cool coconuts and water upon their arrival at the Temwen causeway as they prepared to embark for the leaders’ retreat on Para Nui. We also extend special thanks to the Chief Minister of U, Hon. Rofino Primo, and District Administrator, Hon. Daniel Edgar of Nett Municipal Governments for their invaluable assistance in organizing and managing the motorcade to and from Para Nui. Their support ensured the smooth and timely transport of the delegation, contributing to the overall success of the retreat. The collaborative efforts of all involved exemplify the spirit of unity and cooperation that define our islands and strengthen our leadership. We are grateful for the contributions of these local leaders and staff, who made this important event possible. Thank you to all who played a part in welcoming our leaders and supporting the retreat.

Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) – August 16, 2024: The 13th State and National Leadership Conference (SNLC) concluded on the evening of August 16, 2024, with a significant closing and signing ceremony at Mangrove Bay, Pohnpei. In a momentous display of unity and shared vision, President Wesley W. Simina, Governor Stevenson A. Joseph of Pohnpei, Governor Alexander Narruhn of Chuuk, Governor Tulensa Palik of Kosrae, and Governor Charles Chieng of Yap signed the SNLC Joint Communique, a comprehensive Fisheries Policy, and four pivotal resolutions. The SNLC Joint Communique and the Fisheries Policy, along with the four resolutions, represent a collective commitment by the national and state leaders to address pressing issues facing the Federated States of Micronesia. These documents, now signed, will be made available to the public, marking a new chapter of collaboration and action. The four resolutions adopted during the conference are as follows: Resolution on Compact Funding Allocation: Expressing support for increased allocation of Compact funding, through the Annual Implementation Plan (AIP), towards establishing a nationwide program to address critical environmental and climate change-related challenges during the first five (5) years of the Compact period. Resolution on Decentralization of Infrastructure Compact Implementation: Expressing support for a bill to amend Title 55 of the FSM Code to decentralize the implementation of infrastructure projects under the Compact. Resolution on National Petroleum Corporation and State Utilities: Expressing appreciation for the role of the National Petroleum Corporation and State Utilities while calling for a review and increased transparency in fuel prices and utility tariffs. Resolution on Extension of Compact Sector Grants Deadline: Expressing the endorsement by Leaders to seek JEMCO’s approval for an extension of the deadline for the obligation of FY2024 Compact Sector Grants. In his closing remarks, Governor Stevenson A. Joseph expressed deep gratitude to the organizers and participants of the 13th SNLC. He commended the leaders and participants for their dedication and noted, “For the past week, we have sat and discussed important issues; now is the time to simply go forth and do it.” The resolutions and agreements signed at this conference are expected to pave the way for significant advancements in environmental sustainability, infrastructure development, and economic transparency across the Federated States of Micronesia.

Para Nui, Madolenihmw, Pohnpei: August 16, 2024 — Governor Stevenson A. Joseph and First Lady Dr. Aina Garstang joined state and national leaders for a retreat at Para Nui as part of the ongoing 13th State and National Leadership Conference (SNLC). The retreat offered an opportunity for leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue in a more relaxed setting, fostering unity and collaboration across the Federated States of Micronesia. Acting Speaker Miguel on behalf of Governor Joseph expressed gratitude for the open discussions and the spirit of cooperation displayed during the retreat, which he believes will pave the way for further development initiatives in Pohnpei and throughout the FSM. The retreat marks a significant milestone in the 13th SNLC, bringing together leaders to build stronger partnerships for the future.

KOLONIA, Pohnpei, FSM: August 14, 2024 — Governor Stevenson A. Joseph and Acting Speaker McGarry Miguel hosted a reception yesterday evening for the principals of the 13th State National Leadership Conference (SNLC) at the Pohnpei State Legislature compound. The informal gathering celebrated the ongoing collaboration among the leaders of the Federated States of Micronesia. In attendance were His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia; Honorable Alexander Narruhn, Governor of Chuuk; Vice Speaker May of the Chuuk House of Representatives; Honorable Tulensa Palik, Governor of Kosrae and Speaker Semeon of the Kosrae State Legislature; and Honorable Charles Chieng, Governor of Yap and Vice Speaker Rutun of the Yap State Legislature. The reception followed the third day of the SNLC, which is being held this week at the COM-FSM China Friendship Gym in Palikir. The event provided an opportunity for the state leaders to engage in informal discussions and strengthen the ties that bind the four states of the Federated States of Micronesia. In brief remarks, Acting Speaker Miguel, Governor Narruhn, Governor Palik, and Governor Chieng expressed their gratitude for the collaborative spirit demonstrated by all the leaders present and emphasized the importance of unity and shared goals in ensuring the continued progress of the nation. The 13th SNLC will continue through the week, addressing key issues facing the states and the nation as a whole.

KOLONIA,Pohnpei, FSM: August 13, 2024— Governor Stevenson A. Joseph, accompanied by First Lady Dr. Aina Garstang, attended a dinner reception at Cliff Rainbow in honor of the Deputy Minister of New Zealand, Winston Peters, and his delegation. The event marked a continuation of discussions that took place earlier in the day at Nett Elementary School, where Deputy Minister Peters made significant remarks. During the reception, Governor Joseph welcomed the Deputy Minister and his delegation, expressing his gratitude for New Zealand’s ongoing support and assistance. He highlighted the earlier donation through UNICEF to Nett Elementary, which will enhance existing school programs, particularly those aligned with his administration’s priority on food security. Governor Joseph noted that the contributions from the Government of New Zealand and UNICEF will greatly help build the capacity of our educational programs, ensuring our children have the resources they need to succeed. The evening was a celebration of the 36 years of diplomatic relations between FSM and New Zealand, reaffirming both parties’ commitment to furthering development initiatives that benefit the people of Pohnpei and the FSM.

NETT, Pohnpei, FSM: August 13, 2024 — Governor Stevenson A. Joseph and First Lady Dr. Aina Garstang participated in the opening ceremony for the launch of the “Investing in Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) for the Future of the North Pacific” initiative. This significant event underscores Pohnpei’s commitment to the well-being and development of its children. The event, held in Pohnpei, was graced by the presence of the Right Honorable Winston Peters, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of New Zealand, along with Members of Parliament and the New Zealand delegation. Governor Joseph warmly welcomed Honorable Peters on his first visit to Pohnpei, emphasizing the strong bond between the Pacific nations and New Zealand’s continued support and partnership. In his opening remarks, Governor Joseph stated, “It is my distinct honor to welcome you all to this significant occasion—the launch of ‘Investing in Early Childhood Development and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene for the Future of the North Pacific.’ Today, we come together not only to celebrate this vital initiative but also to reaffirm our commitment to the well-being of our most precious resource—our children.” Governor Joseph highlighted the crucial role of ECD and WASH in shaping the future of communities, particularly in developing nations like Pohnpei. He emphasized the importance of providing nurturing care, proper nutrition, and learning opportunities during the first three years of a child’s life to prevent long-term setbacks that could impact society. Governor Joseph expressed his gratitude to the partners who made this initiative possible, including UNICEF, led by Chief Cromwell Bacarezza, whose dedication to improving the lives of children in the region is invaluable. He also acknowledged the steadfast support of the Government of New Zealand, which has had a profound impact on Pohnpei’s communities through its contributions to education, health, and infrastructure. The Governor further recognized the strong partnership with the FSM National Government, particularly Secretary Gardenia Aisek and Marcus Samo, whose leadership and vision were critical to the success of such initiatives. He noted the importance of ECD and WASH in the ongoing discussions at the 13th State and National Leadership Conference, which is currently taking place in Pohnpei. Following the ceremony, Governor Joseph and First Lady Dr. Aina Garstang reviewed presentations made by students from Sokehs Powe Elementary School, Pohnpei Catholic School, Nett Elementary School, and Ohmine Elementary School. The presentations focused on water, hygiene, seedlings, and local produce, highlighting the importance of these topics in the education and development of Pohnpei’s youth. The launch of the “Investing in ECD and WASH for the Future of the North Pacific” initiative marks a significant step forward in addressing the challenges faced by Pohnpei and the broader Pacific region in ensuring the well-being and development of its children.