Charge d’Affaires Takeshi Ogino of the Embassy of Japan and Governor Franco Gibbons of Koror State signed the grant contract for “The Project for Procurement of Radio Communication Equipment for Koror State Rangers,” valued $62,041, under the Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) on February 5, 2019.
The signing ceremony was held at the Embassy of Japan and witnessed by Speaker Alan Marbou of Koror State Legislature and related personnel.
Koror State Rangers are responsible for patrol and monitoring as well as safety for all users of Koror State water jurisdiction including the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon. However, they do not have an operating communication system and rely on cell phones to transfer messages. Currently, due to unstable mobile signals within the patrol area, reports of both poaching in conservation areas and requested rescues are not immediately responded.
In light of this, the Embassy of Japan decided to grant a radio communication system to Koror State Rangers. Procurement of new equipment including repeaters with antenna towers, radio bases and transceivers will allow the Rangers’ command station to relay messages and communicate immediately with officers on site and vice versa.
In his remarks at the ceremony, Charge d’Affaires Ogino expressed his hope that the implementation of this project would strengthen maritime security and contribute to safe travel for all users of Koror State water. Meanwhile, Governor Gibbons showed his appreciation for Japan’s continued assistance to Koror State.
The Government of Japan launched GGP in 1999, for the purpose of responding to various development needs engaged in grassroots activities in Palau. As of February 5, 2019, the Embassy has signed 76 grant contracts with schools and hospitals as well as state governments and non-profit organizations. Education, health care and environment are the primary fields prioritized by Japan for GGP in order to contribute to sustainable development of Palau. For further information about GGP, please contact 488-6455. (PR)