Chuuk – A delegation from the Federated States of Micronesia’s (FSM) Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Emergency Management (DECEM) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) recently visited infrastructure reconstruction projects managed by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) from 25-27 May in Chuuk. 

The projects are part of the Typhoon Wutip Reconstruction Project, supported by USAID and are part of the United States Government’s response to rebuilding efforts under the Compact of Free Association Agreement with the FSM.  

The project has fully constructed and handed over 135 houses, each equipped with individual 1,600-gallon water tanks, to community members who lost their homes to the typhoon. Additionally, the project has constructed and completed 32 public infrastructures, with two more underway. These include schools, health centres and community facilities that also serve as safe houses during disasters. 

During the visit, DECEM Secretary, Andrew Yatilman expressed his appreciation for the extensive reach of the project and its significant impact on building resilience among island communities. He highlighted key areas for continued collaboration and commended the positive changes brought by the reconstruction efforts. 

John Piggott, USAID Engineering Officer, echoed Secretary Yatilman’s sentiments, emphasizing the project’s success in providing climate-resistant houses and strengthening public infrastructure. "This project is a testament to the long-standing partnership between USAID and the Government of FSM and reflects our concerted effort to provide sustainable solutions to ever-growing climate threats," he said. 

Before visiting to the lagoon islands of Chuuk, the delegation paid a courtesy call to the Honourable Governor Alexander Narruhn of Chuuk State, presenting the objectives of their mission. IOM Chief of Mission, Salvatore Sortino, thanked the Governor for the State's commitment to ensure strengthened disaster preparedness and recovery mechanisms.  

“The State’s unwavering support to IOM’s reconstruction work, including in overcoming strenuous operational challenges over the past several years, has been instrumental to the success of the project,” Sortino added. 

Over the two-day visit, the team observed newly constructed homes and refurbished public infrastructure in Udot, Uman, Polle, Tol and Fanapanges islands in Chuuk Lagoon. The visit provided an opportunity for the team to engage with community members who lost their houses to Typhoon Wutip and gauge ways in which the reconstruction assistance has enhanced resilience to disasters and climate threats. At the end of their visit to Chuuk Lagoon, Secretary Yatilman, Lambert and Sortino will continue their visit to Chuuk outer islands of Ta and Satowan in the Mortlocks Region. 

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For more information, please contact at IOM Micronesia: Haimanot Abebe, Email:  haabebe@iom.int, +691 320 8735