COLONIA, Yap – The Yap Biosecurity Facility was officially handed over from the National Government to the Yap State Government on December 17, 2024, , marking a significant step in strengthening the Federated States of Micronesia’s biosecurity efforts. The facility serves as a critical infrastructure in managing invasive species and safeguarding local ecosystems. Its completion is an important milestone in building the country’s biosecurity capacity.
The handover ceremony, which took place at the Yap International Airport was attended by key government officials, biosecurity officers, UNDP representatives and the GEF6 FSM Invasive Alien Species Steering Committee members and staff. The ceremony underscored the continued commitment to safeguarding the FSM’s unique biodiversity and addressing the threats posed by invasive species, pests and diseases of concern. While there is a need for ongoing investment to equip the facility with modern technology, the facility’s establishment marks a commitment to long-term solutions and environmental stewardship.
Assistant Secretary for the Agriculture Division of the FSM Department of Resources and Development, Ms. Menoleen Jacob-Oswalt, delivered her remarks on behalf of the FSM National Government, emphasizing that the facility will serve as a crucial resource in the efforts of effectively monitoring, managing, and responding to biosecurity risks.
“I am confident that, with ongoing investment and collaboration, we can build upon this foundation to ensure our biosecurity systems are resilient and responsive to future challenges. This handover marks the beginning of a new chapter in our shared responsibility to protect our nation. The FSM Department of R&D will continue to support the state governments as we advance together, and I eagerly anticipate the positive impact this facility will have in strengthening our biosecurity initiatives.”
Aquila Van Keuk, UNDP Programme Analyst, added by explaining that dedicated biosecurity facilities at FSM’s key ports is an initiative of the GEF6 FSM Invasive Alien Species Project, a project under the Agriculture Division of FSM R&D, funded by Global Environment Facilities through United Nations Development Programme.
“Excitingly, the facility here in Yap is the first in FSM to be completed under the GEF6 FSM IAS project. This new facility will not only strengthen the ability of Yap to protect its borders against invasive alien species but will also support the broader goal of institutionalizing biosecurity across all sectors and levels of government. By ensuring that biosecurity measures are better enforced and understood, we are taking a critical step toward safeguarding our natural ecosystems, agricultural systems, and marine resources.”
The Governor of Yap, the Honorable Charles Chieng, conveyed his gratitude on behalf of the people of Yap. “I thank the FSM Government for working to secure the funding for this facility, as well as the United Nations Development Programme for availing such funding. I also want to especially thank the FSM Department of Resources and Development and the FSM Department of Transportation Communications and Infrastructure, all the Program Managers and Project Engineers and Inspectors, and also the Waab Transportation Company and their workers for everyone’s tireless efforts in the construction of this facility. I share with you all my gratitude, and that of the people of Yap, for making this facility a reality, knowing that there is at least in part a line of defense against harmful agents.”
The FSM National Government, through the GEF6 FSM Invasive Alien Species Project, looks forward to further strengthening the partnership with local stakeholders to enhance the facility’s capabilities, ensuring that it can fulfill its important role in biosecurity protection for years to come.
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