Above Picture: WHO Officials and Health Ministers at the 2024 World Conference on Traditional Medicine in Beijing
At the invitation of His Excellency Lei Haichao, Minister of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, FSM sent a delegation to the 2024 World Health Conference on Traditional Medicine held in Beijing from December 3-4, 2024. The Delegation members from the FSM Department of Health included Secretary Marcus Samo, Chief Pharmacist Resel Elias, Ambassador Vincent Sivas, and First Secretary Johnson Hendrick.
Secretary Samo joined other health ministers on a panel discussion on the role of traditional medicine to strengthen health system development and how it can further improve universal health coverage, particularly in middle to low-income countries. The conference provided opportunity for the FSM delegation to further follow up on bilateral cooperation previously agreed to and to further engage in technical discussion with other partners in the region.
Traditional medicine has always been part of human existence but practiced differently from place to place. The World Health Organization (WHO) regarded traditional medicine as vital component in the delivery of health and well-being. China has been at the frontier of traditional medicine where traditional medicine and Western medicine are integrated within the health delivery system. With technical guidance from WHO, member states are encouraged to assess their regulatory and governance structures and decide how best to address traditional medicine within their setting. While in Beijing, the FSM delegation members held bilateral meeting, visited hospitals, health clinics, and factories where practice and production of traditional medicines are on display.
Above Picture of FSM Delegation (Left to Right): Chief Pharmacist Ms. Resel Elias, Ambassador Vincent Sivas, Secretary Marcus Samo, and First Secretary Mr. Johnson Hendrick
While attending the Conference on Philippine-Pacific Partnership on Sustainable Health Workforce for Health Security from November 27-29, 2024 in Makati, Philippines, Secretary Marcus Samo met his counterpart from the Republic of the Philippine Department Health, Secretary Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa, to discussed health issues of mutual concerns. The discussion concluded in a form of signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two secretaries. The MOU provided for the Philippines Government to field specialized visiting medical teams to the FSM in obstetrics and gynecology to provide training to medical staff and for the FSM to cover transportation and accommodation cost. It is hope that such partnership will lead to reduce infant and maternal mortality rates. Through the MOU, FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs will identify the medical specialty and the Philippines Department of Health will source the medical team.
The MOU was initialed by Under Secretary of Health, Dr Kenneth G. Ronguillo from the Philippines Department of Health and the Mr. Robert Nakasone Jr. from the FSM Department of Justice as witnesses.
Secretary Herbosa and the Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) for the Western Pacific Region jointly convened the conference and brought in seventeen (17) Ministers from the Pacific Island Countries (PICs) and donor partners to address the pressing need of sustainable health workforce for the region. It was ideal for the Philippines to host the event given its central location in the region, the presence of many UN agencies and partners, and its reputation in producing and exporting skilled health workforce.
The outcome statement from the meeting highlighted the commitment for joint collaboration and partnership in addressing the issues of shortage in skilled health workforce. It was well acknowledged that without having adequate number of health workforce with the right skills, competence, attitude, and morale, the region will continue to face health security threat.
Picture (Left to Right: Mr. Scott Mori, Mrs. Quennie A. Go, T.H. Mrs. Gardenia Aisek, T.H. Mr. Marcus Samo, T.H. Dr. Margarita Cholymay, Mr. Friday Shomour, & Mr. Steward S. Molens
On December 9, 2024, T.H. Secretary Gardenia Aisek of the FSM Department of Education and T.H. Marcus Samo of the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs, along with T.H. Dr. Margarita Cholymay of Chuuk State Department of Education discussed the Health Promoting School (HPS) concept as a way to improve health and learning at the schools. Promoted by the World Health Organization (WHO), the HPS concept is an opportunity for education and health to come together for the common purpose – improving health of students, families, and communities . Prior to this meeting, Dr Cholymay, Secretary Aisek, and FSM Nutritionist Mr. Steward Molens attended a WHO regional conference on HPS where countries interested in the HPS discussed strategies and technical assistance support.
In the meeting were Mr. Scott Mori, Chief Operating Officer from the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs, Mr. Friday Shomour, Administrative Officer from the Chuuk Department of Health Services, and Quennie Amor Go, WHO School Health Coordinator. A presentation was provided to summarizes the outcomes of the WHO workshop in Manila and the next steps. This meeting is vital since it signifies the importance of cross-cutting collaboration between government sectors to achieve Health promoting schools across all FSM.
Chuuk State, November 27, 2024 – A significant milestone for the outer islands of Chuuk State was celebrated today with the handover of 15 solar water purification systems, marking an important step towards improving access to clean water for underserved communities. The ceremony, held in Chuuk, was attended by key dignitaries, including Acting Assistant Secretary Augustine Sue, who delivered remarks on behalf of Secretary Samo; the Chief of Staff representing the Chuuk State Governor; Kevin J. Petrini, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative and Country Manager for the Pacific Office in FSM; and Dr. Dorina Fred, representing the Chuuk State Department of Health Services.
The event was a testament to the collaborative efforts between various stakeholders to address the pressing need for clean water in the region. Ms. Myjoleen Kim, speaking on behalf of the Government of Chuuk, expressed deep appreciation for the support received from donor agencies through the FSM National Government, stating that this initiative is a “game changer” for the health services and overall well-being of the people in the outer islands of Chuuk.
During his remarks, Mr. Kevin Petrini expressed gratitude for the effective collaboration with the Chuuk State Government, the Department of Health Services and Social Affairs, and public health agencies. He acknowledged that, as someone with easy access to clean water, he often took this resource for granted, underscoring the critical need for such projects in the outer islands of Chuuk.
Acting Assistant Secretary Sue highlighted the commitment of the FSM National Government to improving access to clean water, stating, “With these solar water purification systems, we are taking a significant step towards improving health outcomes for the people of the outer islands and empowering women, who often bear the responsibility of water collection and sanitation in our households.” He also extended acknowledgments to the Government of the Republic of India for its invaluable support through the UN Office for South-South Cooperation and India-UN Development Partnership Fund to the FSM Strengthening Gender Machinery Project.
The initiative represents not only a commitment to enhancing water sanitation but also an alignment with the objectives of the Gender Machinery Project, which aims to empower communities through sustainable solutions. Acting Assistant Secretary Sue affirmed, “Access to clean and safe water is fundamental to health, hygiene, and overall quality of life. This project exemplifies our dedication to fostering sustainable solutions for the well-being of our communities.”
The handover of these solar water purification systems is expected to improve the quality of life significantly for many residents in Chuuk State’s outer islands, where clean water access has been an ongoing challenge.
Yap, Federated States of Micronesia – The Yap Day Care Center celebrated its official handover on November 26, 2024, marking a significant achievement in the commitment to early childhood education and the empowerment of women in the Yap community. The event was attended by Takiko Ifamilik, Digital Gender Coordinator, who represented the FSM Department of Health on behalf of Secretary Samo and coordinated the event.
In her remarks, Ms. Ifamilik highlighted the fundamental obligation of any government to create an environment where children can learn and thrive. “The Simina-Palik Administration strives to find every opportunity to ensure this vision is realized,” she stated. She recalled President Simina’s last visit to the facility, during which the Yap Women’s Association, represented by Maria Law, requested assistance, leading to the Department of Health and Social Affairs fulfilling this request.
The handover celebration signifies a significant milestone for the Yap Day Care Center—a place that embodies the community’s commitment to nurturing children while empowering women. “This center is not just a building; it is a symbol of hope, support, and progress in our community,” Ms. Ifamilik added.
She reiterated the importance of ongoing collaboration: “We will be working with the Yap State Government and the Yap Women’s Association to ensure our support and assistance do not stop here. As long as there is demand and we have the means, we will deliver.”
During the ceremony, Director Alex Gilfiley delivered welcoming remarks on behalf of the Yap State Governor, emphasizing the collaborative efforts that made the Day Care Center possible.
Mr. Kevin J. Petrini, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative and Country Manager for the Pacific Office in FSM, joined the ceremony along with several of his staff members and representatives from the Yap State Government, including Maria Law, President of the Yap Women’s Association, and her officers.
President Maria Law expressed her gratitude for the establishment of a safe space for children. She emphasized that the center will not only ensure a secure environment for the children but also provide hope for working mothers, knowing that their children are safe.
The Yap Day Care Center represents not only an investment in the well-being of children but also a commitment to providing opportunities for women in the community. The Department of Health & Social Affairs will continue to collaborate with the Yap State Government to fulfill the needs of the Yap Women’s Association in establishing an online business to market and sell beautiful, locally made crafts aimed at achieving self-reliance. Additionally, we aim to create a counseling or crisis center for women, children, and other vulnerable groups, working together to promote gender equality and champion the principles of inclusivity, safety, and empowerment.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Government of the Republic of India for the financial support through the India-UN Development Partnership Fund-South-South Cooperation under the FSM Strengthening Gender Machinery Project. Their contributions have made the renovation of the Yap Day Care possible. We commend their commitment to fostering partnerships that promote development.
May the Yap Day Care Center serve as a beacon of hope and a model for other initiatives in our pursuit of a brighter, more equitable future.
Enhancing Syndromic Disease & Vaccine-Preventable Disease Surveillance in FSM
From November 12-15, 2025, the Department of Health & Social Affairs (DHSA), with the support of the World Health Organization (WHO), will host its 2nd Annual Disease Surveillance Training Workshop at the Pohnpei State Hospital Conference. This workshop is a collaborative effort between the Public Health Hospital Emergency Preparedness Program and the Immunization Program, aimed at enhancing syndromic surveillance and integrating vaccine-preventable disease surveillance. Additionally, it focuses on revitalizing Hospital-Based Active Surveillance and implementing strategies for the elimination of Measles and Rubella in the FSM.
The four-day training concluded on a positive note, with all states reaching a consensus on the 2025 work plan. This plan aims to ensure regular and timely reporting, including zero reports of suspected vaccine-preventable diseases (VDP). Key objectives include:
Strengthening the integration of acute fever and rash (AFR) surveillance with existing systems like the Hospital-Based Active Surveillance (HBAS) and the Pacific Syndromic Surveillance System (PSS). This integrated approach will improve the detection and response to potential outbreaks and enhance the overall effectiveness of the surveillance efforts.
Sustaining and improving routine immunization coverage, with an emphasis on community engagement and tracking defaulters
Promoting public awareness and education for the Measles and Rubella Elimination campaign
Enhancing laboratory capacity for testing and confirmations
Establishing state and national-level Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) committees dedicated to the prompt reporting, investigation, and management of serious AEFI cases. Ensuring an adequate supply of necessary medical kits, including epinephrine, is also a priority to handle any adverse events swiftly.
In conclusion, the training emphasized the importance of collaboration, capacity building, and continuous improvement in public health practices. The commitment of all participants to achieving the outlined objectives and securing the necessary resources will be pivotal in advancing the health and well-being of the FSM population. The success of this initiative relies on the continued support of local and international partners, ensuring that the FSM remains resilient and prepared to tackle future public health challenges.
On September 26, 2024, Acting WHO Representative (WR) Dr. Josaia Tiko paid a courtesy visit to the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs. Dr. Tiko was received by Acting Secretary Moses Pretrick and his staff, where they discussed ongoing collaborations and the support efforts provided by WHO to the Department. Dr. Tiko is serving as Acting WR for FSM, Palau, and RMI until December 2024, assisting with the transition of the WHO Office in Pohnpei from a Country Liaison Officer (CLO) to a WR office. The Department welcomes Acting WR Dr. Josaia Tiko to his new post within the FSM.
On September 19, 2024, UNFPA Pacific Resident Representative and Director, supported by the UNFPA-FSM team, had a courtesy meeting with FSM DHSA Acting Secretary Hon. Moses Pretrick and key department staff. The objective of the courtesy meeting is to strengthen partnership and collaboration between UNFPA and DHSA, discuss the implementation of MCP7 implementation, and explore how UNFPA can better tailor its support to FSM DHSA.
August 13, 2024 – FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs successfully convened and facilitated the 1st FSM Pharmaceutical Unit Technical Committee meeting in Weno, Chuuk from August 6-7, 2024 with support from the World Health Organization (WHO). This important meeting brought together pharmacists/pharmacy supervisors from the four FSM state hospitals, and representatives from the FSM Customs and Tax Head Quarters Office, the DHSA Food Safety Program and the Pharmaceutical Unit to:
Discuss, formalize and elect officers for the committee which was established to assist the Pharmaceutical Unit in ensuring public’s access to good quality, safe and effective medicines;
Formulate the committee’s workplan;
Review drafted regulations and guidelines for the licensing of pharmaceutical establishments in FSM; and
Join the conversation to raise awareness on the new law on nicotine delivery systems including e-cigarettes.
The meeting was initially planned for three days, however, the committee managed to complete the scheduled activities within two days satisfying all the meeting objectives.
FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs and the Pharmaceutical Unit Technical Committee express their gratitude to the sponsor (WHO) and Chuuk State Health Services for hosting the meeting.
July 22-26, 2024, Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands – A high-level delegation from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) participated in the 15th Triennial Conference of Pacific Women, the 8th Meeting of Pacific Ministers for Women, and the 2024 Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders in Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands. These three distinct meetings were condensed into one week, with discussions centered on gender issues informed by regional and international policy frameworks aimed at advancing gender equality.
The FSM delegation included high-level women lawmakers (National and State Senators) such as FSM Senator Perpetua S. Konman, Senator Merlynn Abello-Alfonso, Senator Yoslyn G. Sigrah, and Pohnpei State Senator Herolyn S. Movick. The delegation was also accompanied by technical and legal staff from the FSM Congress, FSM President’s Chief of Staff Mrs. Jane J. Chigiyal, and technical and legal staff from the executive branches of the FSM and State governments, as well as representatives from the Chuuk Women’s Council, a CSO/NGO.
Around 300 participants from across the Pacific attended the Triennial Conference, where key gender priorities in the region were discussed, including women’s health, gender-responsive climate justice, and the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV). The week also provided a valuable opportunity for regional partners, government representatives, advocates, and members of civil society organizations to network and share common interests.
FSM’s interventions were delivered by various members of the delegation. The 8th Meeting of Pacific Ministers for Women provided a platform for sharing achievements and lessons among Pacific countries and territories. During the meeting, Secretary Marcus Samo emphasized, “Investing in strategic and targeted measures for women’s health is not new for FSM.” The FSM was commended for its efforts to increase access to pap smear screening through its telepathology program and cervical cancer screening and testing, both aimed at ensuring that “no woman is left behind.”
Senator Perpetua S. Konman highlighted the importance of gender equality and sexual reproductive health and rights (SRHR) educational programs in primary and secondary schools, including menstrual hygiene education. Senator Merlynn Abello-Alfonso addressed the impact of climate change on human health, stating, “Our women and girls in small island states suffer disproportionately from its impacts, especially those with disabilities, and those living in remote, marginalized, or hard-to-reach areas.”
Senator Yoslyn G. Sigrah spoke on the issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and its impacts on women’s lives, including limitations on their participation in economic and political platforms, education and employment opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), and autonomy over their own bodies and health, including sexual health.
Pohnpei State Senator Herolyn S. Movick discussed the importance of connecting Pacific regional frameworks to national institutions and mechanisms for gender. She shared that FSM has integrated gender into its laws and policies and has established a Gender Equality Policy. Senator Movick emphasized FSM’s commitment to a whole-of-government approach to mainstreaming gender across all sectors and called for regional cooperation, particularly in technical support, to ensure sustainable implementation and monitoring of gender goals in FSM.
Chief of Staff Mrs. Jane Chigiyal, who holds a key role in gender mainstreaming, advocated for the comprehensive dissemination of gender frameworks to assist government duty bearers at the national and state levels in integrating gender into their policies and programs. Her presence at the meetings reflected FSM’s commitment to advancing gender equality for sustainable development and economic growth.
The FSM delegation also paid a courtesy visit to President Hilda C. Heine of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. The visit strengthened bilateral relations and underscored the importance of cooperation between the two countries.
The FSM Delegation also underscored the urgency of addressing cervical cancer in the region, advocating for increased support in financing the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
While the FSM delegation’s interventions covered each main agenda point, they were encapsulated in Secretary Marcus Samo’s statement: “Advancing gender equality is not only the right thing to do. It’s good for development, and it’s good for any country’s GDP. It is everybody’s business.” Secretary Samo called for greater investment in gender equality and development.
All members of the FSM Delegation played vital roles and left with a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of gender equality and development at both international and regional levels.
