Island Palms Hotel, Kolonia, Pohnpei: January 22, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph attended the opening ceremony of the Inception Workshop for the Kiwa Initiative Regional MiCOAST Project. The event, hosted at the Island Palms Hotel, brought together government representatives, officials, and community members from across the region to mark the beginning of the three-year project aimed at fostering and scaling community-based fishery management in Micronesia, including the Marshall Islands, Nauru, Kosrae, Pohnpei, Yap, and Palau.
The Kiwa Initiative, generously funded by the European Union and the governments of France, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, represents a collective effort to address the challenges faced by local communities in managing their fisheries sustainably. The project aims to empower communities and enhance their capacity to oversee their marine resources effectively.
The opening ceremony witnessed impactful speeches from key figures involved in the Kiwa Initiative. Conservation Society of Pohnpei Executive Director, Mr. Eugene Joseph, officially inaugurated the workshop, setting the tone for discussions and collaborations. Following the opening, the CEO of One Reef, Christopher LaFranchi, expressed gratitude to all participants and emphasized the significance of the workshop in achieving the goals of the MiCOAST Project. One Reef and Conservation Society of Pohnpei are hosting this inception workshop.
Her Excellency Jo Cowley, Australian Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia, spoke on behalf of the project’s donors. She shared insights into the financing, revealing an approximate AUD$120 million commitment to combat climate change. Ambassador Cowley emphasized the importance of local leadership and community involvement, aligning with national objectives in building resilience against the impacts of climate change.
Mr. William Kostka, Executive Director of the North Pacific Office of SPC, represented the technical partners in the initiative. He highlighted the historical importance of community-based fisheries and acknowledged the challenges faced in effective management. Mr. Kostka expressed optimism that the MiCOAST program would play a crucial role in addressing these challenges and promoting sustainable practices.
Governor Stevenson A. Joseph delivered heartfelt remarks, expressing gratitude for being part of this significant event. He underscored the collective responsibility to care for the planet and affirmed Pohnpei’s strong support for the initiative. Governor Joseph shared his vision for reorganizing the executive department of Pohnpei State Government, emphasizing the fusion of Agriculture and Aquaculture under the mandate of Food Security. He sought assistance for this mandate “to secure our nourishing needs.”
The Inception Workshop marks the beginning of an ambitious journey towards sustainable fisheries management and community development in the region. With the support of the Kiwa Initiative and the commitment of regional leaders, the MiCoast project aims to create a lasting impact on the communities it serves.