Palikir, Federated States of Micronesia – A joint initiative to build sustainable water systems, enhance disaster preparedness and address the critical need for water security and safe hygiene practices in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) was launched this week (19/02).  

The two-year water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) project, funded by Japan, will be implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with the Governments of the FSM and the RMI. 

The project focuses on addressing the critical challenges posed by droughts and climate variability, particularly El Niño-induced water shortages that severely affect low-lying island nations. In early 2024, severe drought conditions impacted communities in FSM and RMI, leaving thousands without adequate access to safe drinking water and highlighting the urgent need for action. 

Through this initiative, new rainwater harvesting systems will be established, and existing water catchments and groundwater wells will be rehabilitated to provide sustainable water sources for community members. The program also emphasizes capacity-building for government agencies to enhance disaster preparedness, specifically in developing and implementing drought contingency plans. Targeted training will ensure the proper maintenance of water infrastructure, safeguarding access to clean water even during prolonged dry spells. 

In addition to infrastructure development, the project prioritizes community engagement, raising awareness about safe hygiene practices and building local capacity to adopt safe hygiene behaviours.  

The integration of innovative climate-resilient WASH technologies, such as air-to-water systems and low-cost water treatment solutions, will further enhance the resilience of FSM and RMI to climate-related challenges. 

“Low-lying islands like those in FSM and RMI are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of El Niño, with limited groundwater sources and reliance on rainwater catchment systems,” said Nobuo Kagomiya, Japanese Ambassador to FSM, at the project launch ceremony. “This project reflects Japan’s commitment to supporting climate resilience and disaster preparedness in the Pacific region.” 

IOM Micronesia Chief of Mission, Salvatore Sortino, expressed gratitude for Japan’s generous support, stating, “This initiative is a critical step toward ensuring that communities in FSM and RMI have access to safe water. Collaboration across governments, communities, and partners is key to achieving long-term resilience.” 

IOM will work closely with the FSM Department of Environment, Climate Change and Emergency Management (DECEM) as well as other relevant Government entities at the national, state and municipality levels.  

In RMI, key partners include the Ministry of Environment, National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), WASH Cluster, Ministry of Health (MoH), Ministry of Education (MoE), and the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). 

This joint effort underlines the importance of collaborative efforts and evidence-based interventions in addressing water security challenges in the North Pacific, ensuring resilience of vulnerable communities. 

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For more information, please contact Haimanot Abebe ADERA, Media and Communications Officer, IOM Micronesia, Email: haabebe@iom.int.