Topics & Events

Mr. Marcus Samo, Acting Secretary of National Department of Health and Social Affairs (DHSA)(left) and Mr. Shinji SHIBATA, Resident Representative of JICA FSM(right)

August 23, 2019 (Palikir, Pohnpei) Mr. Marcus Samo, Acting Secretary of National Department of Health and Social Affairs (DHSA) and Mr. Shinji SHIBATA, Resident Representative of JICA FSM signed the Record of Discussions (hereinafter referred to as R/D) between the two parties on August 23, 2019 setting in motion "the Project for Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis in the Pacific Region". The implementation of the project starts on the date of signature and ends on the 28 of February 2022.

This project is one of six sister Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) elimination projects being implemented throughout the Pacific Region including other countries such as Fiji, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Tuvalu. By collaborating with the World Health Organization's (WHO) Pacific Program Elimination Lymphatic Filariasis (PacELF), the LF Elimination Project is expected to be a huge contribution to people's health in FSM.

The FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs has collaborated with JICA and WHO in the movement to eradicate LF from the FSM since 2001. JICA has donated test kits and medical supplies with all equipment passing inspection upon arrival by FSM Immunization program. The test kits are still being utilized during campaigns and surveys throughout FSM. With this new project, JICA continues its support in contributing to healthy lives and wellness in FSM. JICA recognizes the health sector as a priority issue in the FSM and will continue to cooperate with FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs and provide support in this area.