Japan’s GGP Grant to Angaur State Government
2023/2/27


On February 27, 2023, Ambassador of Japan ORIKASA Hiroyuki and Governor of Angaur State Steven R. Salii signed the grant contract for “The Project for the Procurement of Ferry Boat in Angaur State” worth $211,500 under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project (GGP). The signing ceremony was held at the Embassy of Japan and was witnessed by Chief and Legislator of Angaur State Uchelbelau Lorenso Edward and Uchelkemul Noro Naruo and other of Angaur State legislature.
The small ferry-boat with a capacity of 25 people currently in use between Koror and Angaur is ten years old. Its deterioration in the engine frequently causes trouble during operation in high waves at sea, which is becoming a hindrance to the safety of residents. The ferry-boat connecting Koror and Angaur is an important service that supports the commuting and schooling lives of Angaur residents who do not have large stores or hospitals on the island, as well as locals who live off-island.
In light of these urgent issues, the Embassy of Japan in Palau, based on a request from the Angaur State Government, has utilized the GGP to provide assistance directly linked to human security by means of financial support for the provision of one ferry-boat and trailer.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Orikasa expressed, “I am pleased to present today a contract for assistance in areas directly related to human security and procurement. I strongly believe that Angaur State will ensure proper maintenance of the boat, that it will be in service for many years to come” Expressing his gratitude for the people and Government of Japan, Angaur State Governor Salii said, “this assistance is useful for our transportation between Angaur and Koror”. Touching on the long historical ties between Japan and Angaur, Chief Uchelbelau said “the provision of new ferry will strengthen the friendly relations between Japan and Angaur, and the people of Angaur will continue to support Japanese projects in Angaur, including WWII Japanese remains collection project.”
The Government of Japan launched GGP in 1999 to meet development needs in grassroots activities in Palau. The Embassy of Japan has signed 96 grant contracts with schools, hospitals, state governments and NGOs. For further information about GGP, please contact 488-6455 or visit the Embassy of Japan website at https://www.palau.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/about_ggp.html