Japan Provides Continued Support to Strengthen Health Screening and Nutrition Initiatives in the Republic of Palau

On March 3, 2026, a signing ceremony for Japan’s Grant Aid to Peace Winds Japan for the “Project for Establishing a Sustainable Health Screening System and Supporting Dietary Improvements for the Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases in the Republic of Palau.”

The agreement was signed by H.E. KASAHARA Kenichi, Ambassador of Japan to Palau, and Mr. AMMA Nobumichi, Palau Country Representative of Peace Winds Japan.

This new one-year project builds upon the outcomes of a previous three-year initiative that concluded in May 2025 under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects. With funding of up to $375,125USD, the project aims to further strengthen the foundation for routine health screenings in Palau, raise awareness about non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and promote healthier lifestyles through preventive care.

Peace Winds Japan will work closely with the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MHHS), as well as national and state-level stakeholders, to establish a sustainable screening system and ensure long-term program viability. Additionally, the project will also seek to address the shortage of medical personnel by expanding training opportunities for community health workers, nursing students, state government staff, and local residents. Furthermore, it will seek to establish a structured follow-up system to provide nutritional guidance and encourage dietary improvements.

In collaboration with state governments, the initiative will promote the development of small table-top gardens to foster the cultivation and consumption of fresh vegetables, thereby encouraging sustainable healthy habits within local communities.

Ambassador Kasahara said “The Government of Japan is honored to renew its partnership with Palau and Peace Winds Japan in addressing the challenges of non-communicable disease. We believe that empowering communities with knowledge and resources is key to preventing these diseases and improving the overall well-being of the Palauan people. Through this project, we would like to reaffirm our commitment to supporting Palau’s efforts to build a sustainable health screening system and promote healthier lifestyles”.

The ceremony was attended by Hon. Raynold B. Oilouch, Vice President of the Republic of Palau and Minister of Health and Human Services; Hon. Jackson Doktok, Governor of Ngchesar State; Hon. Mary Frances Remengesau-Vogt, Governor of Ngeremlengui State; Hon. Sharp Sakuma, Governor of Ngaraard State; MHHS Bureau Directors, Public Health Chiefs, Ms. Esichang Ubedei, Bureau of Foreign Affairs’ Chief of Asia Pacific Division, Ministry of State; and other distinguished guests and stakeholders.