World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for the Western Pacific, Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, says the Pacific’s mounting health pressures demand sustained support and stronger collaboration as he opened WHO’s newly refurbished multi-country office in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia.
In a statement on X, Dr Piukala said his first visit to FSM comes at a time when the country’s four autonomous states face shared challenges across the health sector.
“Kamorale! Hello from the recently established WHO multi-country office in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia –also serving the Pacific Island nations of Palau and the Marshall Islands!” he said.
He stressed the growing strain non-communicable diseases and climate-driven emergencies are placing on health systems across Micronesia.
“From the mounting burden of non-communicable diseases to emergencies including the health impacts of the Climate crisis – our support to government and civil society partners is constant and critical.”
Dr Piukala said the refurbished office, which he inaugurated during the visit, may be small but its team delivers well beyond its size.
“Our refurbished office – which I inaugurated today! – may be small but the team, led by newly-installed Representative Dr Roderico Ofrin punches way above its weight!”
He said he will spend the next four days meeting government officials, health workers and visiting project sites to better understand what is working and where support needs to improve.
“Over the next four days I’ll be visiting government and health officials, health facilities and project sites to learn more about the important work being done on the ground and how we can all do better going forward.”
He thanked WHO staff in Pohnpei for their welcome and commitment to strengthening health across Micronesia.
“Kalangan – thank you – to my wonderful colleagues, for the warm welcome and great start to this week’s important mission!” Dr Piukala said.
