Japan Embassy staff gave great meaning to the word “grassroots” in their Grassroots Grant Program by traveling to Namo Atoll to deliver a new boat to the local government.
A handover ceremony for “The Project for the Improvement of Maritime Transportation in Namo Atoll” was held with local government officials on Namo.
Through Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP), a grant of $161,500 was provided to procure a new boat that will help improve daily transportation and connectivity for the people of Namo.
The ceremony was attended by Namo Mayor Kemilang Kabua, council members of the local government, community members, and other distinguished guests.
At the ceremony, Koichi Tsuchida, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Japan Embassy, congratulated the people of Namo on the successful completion of the project and expressed his appreciation to everyone whose dedication made it possible.
He wished that “this new boat will make life in Namo easier, safer, and more convenient, supporting the dreams and future of the people of this beautiful atoll.”
He further stated that “Japan’s friendship with the people of Namo Atoll has been built over many years, and I hope every journey made by this boat will bring families and communities closer together while further strengthening the bond between Japan and Namo.”
The mayor expressed his sincere appreciation to Japan, as well as all those who contributed to this project. He also emphasized the importance of carefully maintaining the boat so that it can continue serving the people of Namo for many years, noting that reliable sea transportation is essential for the community’s daily life, safety, and future development.
Since 1996, Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects has supported community-driven initiatives across the RMI, responding to local development needs and directly improving people’s lives, the embassy said. “With this project, the Embassy of Japan has supported a total of 163 GGP projects throughout the RMI, reflecting Japan’s continued commitment to working hand in hand with Marshallese communities.”