JICA Hands Over Project Equipment to PICRC

As the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) technical project, ‘Enhancement of Integrated Management of Coastal Ecosystem in Palau for Strengthening Their Resilience to Climate Change,’ (PICRC-JICA Coastal Project) reached its successful conclusion on February 7, PICRC and JICA commemorated this event with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for the handover of the JICA Coastal Project equipment to PICRC. This included items such as scientific surveying tools, analyzers, water quality meters, administrative equipment, electronics, books, cameras, and boat accessories.
“We hope PICRC will continue the vital work of monitoring mangrove ecosystems, sedimentation, and promoting coastal ecosystem awareness using the tools and equipment provided by JICA,” said Ms. Kanako Itagaki, JICA Project Coordinator.
PICRC’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Roxanne Siual Blesam, emphasized the importance of these tools in the context of climate change: “We are witnessing the impacts of climate change more intensely than ever before. We sincerely thank JICA for providing these tools, which will enable PICRC to continue monitoring Palau’s coastal ecosystems for the benefit of our community and to build resilience in the face of these changes.”
PICRC extends their heartfelt gratitude to JICA for their support and dedication over the past three years in conducting essential work of monitoring mangrove ecosystems, developing guidelines on managing soil run-off and sedimentation impacts, and raising awareness about coastal ecosystem conservation. The expertise shared by JICA has been invaluable in enhancing PICRC’s capabilities.