Embassy Hosts 2026 Press Tour on Japan’s Development Cooperation Project
2026/10/29
On October 21, 2026, the Embassy of Japan held its ODA Press Tour 2026, providing participants with a firsthand look at how Japan’s development cooperation is contributing to Palau’s NCD response, infrastructure management, and improved access to the judiciary.
Ngaraard State Government
Participants visited the vegetable garden established on the premises of the Ngaraard State Government. Ngaraard is one of the model communities for dietary improvement under the FY2025 Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects, specifically the "Project for Establishing a Continuous Screening System and Supporting Dietary Improvement for NCD Prevention in the Republic of Palau" (implemented by Peace Winds Japan). Governor Sakuma and a state official Mr. Omisong explained how they are fostering behavioral changes toward healthier eating habits and maintaining/improving overall health through a comprehensive series of initiatives, including health screenings, post-screening follow-ups, and awareness-raising campaigns.
Judiciary Building in Melekeok
Participants toured the renovated facility, which was upgraded with automated wheelchair lifts and other improvements funded under the FY2024 Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) for the "Project for Renovation of the Judiciary Building in Melekeok." These renovations have significantly enhanced accessibility for local residents, including the elderly and people with disabilities, to this core facility supporting the nation’s judicial system. Additionally, by installing enclosed walls around the parking lot, the project ensures the safety and privacy of court participants and personnel, thereby contributing to a safer and more inclusive judicial environment.
Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge
Participants visited the Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge, which will mark the 25th anniversary of its completion in January 2027. The bridge is currently the subject of capacity-building efforts to strengthen its maintenance and management, facilitated by individual experts dispatched through a technical cooperation project.
During the visit, the project’s counterparts shared a key message with the accompanying journalists: "Thanks to this technical cooperation, we have been able to maintain the quality of this vital infrastructure over the long term while addressing the impacts of climate change and other challenges, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of our region."
Ngaraard State Government
Participants visited the vegetable garden established on the premises of the Ngaraard State Government. Ngaraard is one of the model communities for dietary improvement under the FY2025 Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects, specifically the "Project for Establishing a Continuous Screening System and Supporting Dietary Improvement for NCD Prevention in the Republic of Palau" (implemented by Peace Winds Japan). Governor Sakuma and a state official Mr. Omisong explained how they are fostering behavioral changes toward healthier eating habits and maintaining/improving overall health through a comprehensive series of initiatives, including health screenings, post-screening follow-ups, and awareness-raising campaigns.
Judiciary Building in Melekeok
Participants toured the renovated facility, which was upgraded with automated wheelchair lifts and other improvements funded under the FY2024 Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) for the "Project for Renovation of the Judiciary Building in Melekeok." These renovations have significantly enhanced accessibility for local residents, including the elderly and people with disabilities, to this core facility supporting the nation’s judicial system. Additionally, by installing enclosed walls around the parking lot, the project ensures the safety and privacy of court participants and personnel, thereby contributing to a safer and more inclusive judicial environment.
Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge
Participants visited the Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge, which will mark the 25th anniversary of its completion in January 2027. The bridge is currently the subject of capacity-building efforts to strengthen its maintenance and management, facilitated by individual experts dispatched through a technical cooperation project.
During the visit, the project’s counterparts shared a key message with the accompanying journalists: "Thanks to this technical cooperation, we have been able to maintain the quality of this vital infrastructure over the long term while addressing the impacts of climate change and other challenges, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of our region."