Project News

On 21st of June, Ms. Sadako Ogata, President of JICA visited in Tuvalu. This was her first visit to the Pacific area. Tuvalu was selected among the pacific countries and our Foram Sand Project was put on her visiting schedule.

Upon her arrival at the project site, Mr.Mataio, Director of Department of Environment made a warm welcome remark following the project leader Dr.Kayanne's explanation of our activities.

Mr.Paeniu then explained about the foram aquaculture. He was very excited to show our activities to the president and delegation from Japan and Fiji. He rehearsed many times in front of the Department of Fisheries staff. He was really looking forward to showing the animation of foram reproduction. When they were very impressed by the animation, he looked so happy.

At the Aquarium, he explained each tank experiment to them. The president was extremely impressed by the fact that these small creatures had made the islands of Tuvalu. She even asked us for a sample of foram sand.

After the aquarium, we went to the causeway: the pass between two islands heaped sands covered with asphalt.

Dr. Kayanne showed her that the movement of foram sand is blocked from Ocean side to lagoon side.

Later that evening, the Tuvalu government held a welcome reception with about fifty people including Prime Minister Hon. Telavi, Governor General H.E. Italeli, Minister of Finance, Foreign Affairs, Public Works and so on.

The President gave remarks after the Prime Minister's welcome remarks. She referred to the Foram Sand Project as unique in her speech.

This president's visit in Tuvalu was the remarkable occasion for our project's team.

Fumiko Matsudate (Project Coordinator)