Majuro, MH – The Ministry of Health and Human Services of the Republic of the Marshall Islands is pleased to announce the successful commencement of the 2nd Annual Tole Mour Leadership Conference 2024, held under the theme "Innovate, Collaborate, Transform: Charting a Future of Health Equity." The conference, inaugurated by Hon. Ota Kisino, Minister of Health and Human Services, marks a significant milestone in advancing healthcare strategies and community well-being.
The opening ceremony, attended by esteemed guests including key community leaders, technical partners from PIHOA, the World Bank, and UNICEF, highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery and achieving sustainable health outcomes. The conference’s brand, "Tole Mour," meaning "Gift of Life," embodies the Ministry’s dedication to improving health services through innovation and collaborative efforts.
Hon. Ota Kisino emphasized the importance of assessing progress under the Ministry’s Strategic Plan, celebrating achievements, acknowledging challenges, and identifying areas for improvement. Discussions focused on prioritizing MSP reform strategies for FY2025, with an emphasis on embracing innovation to address evolving healthcare needs effectively. The importance of accountability was underscored as leadership shared results of reforms, detailing progress, challenges, and proposed solutions moving forward.
Ms. Emi Chutaro, Executive Director of the Pacific Islands Health Officers Association (PIHOA), shared during the conference that MoHHS leadership should not be disheartened by the scores presented to management but should feel proud that accountability is being addressed at the highest level, commending leadership for its efforts.
Directors were empowered to present innovative ideas for enhancing healthcare delivery, fostering a culture of cross-departmental collaboration, and sharing best practices. Technical partners assessed these presentations and notable reports. At the conclusion of the conference, awards were bestowed, recognizing outstanding achievements. Mela Ratu from the Ebeye Immunization Department received the Notable Achievement Award, while Hermon Schmidt was honored with the Innovative Award.
The conference also featured a Mini TA Partner Round Table, facilitating discussions on resource mobilization and technical assistance to support reform efforts aligned with donor priorities.
Throughout the conference, partnered community leaders shared their valuable perspectives on leadership. Ms. Marie Maddison provided insights into cultural perspectives on Day 2, Pastor Russell Edwards, former Health Planner, shared his experience in health leadership and transition to faith-based leadership on Day 3, and Mrs. Ariana Kilma from the National Nuclear Commission offered youth leadership perspectives also on Day 3.
Additionally, the conference featured a panel discussion titled "MOHHS MSP Implementation: Fostering Collaborations with Ministry Partners for Accelerated Actions." Panelists included Mr. Richard Bruce, Deputy Chief Secretary; Mrs. Ayako Yamaguchi-Eliou, Secretary of Finance, Banking & Postal Services; Ms. Davina Nathan, Attorney General Office; Mrs. Amenta Matthew, PSC Commissioner; Ms. Mercyba Balos, Director of Immigration; and Mr. Travis Joe, Director of Labor. The panel discussion explored collaborative strategies to accelerate the Ministry’s MSP implementation, emphasizing the importance of partnership and coordination across government agencies.
In closing, Minister Kisino reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to "Kumiti Ejmour," or "Health is a Shared Responsibility," emphasizing the importance of sustained teamwork, coordination, and collaboration as demonstrated during the successful hosting of the 10th Micronesian Olympic Games. Participants were encouraged to develop actionable plans for implementing reform strategies, ensuring alignment with the Ministry’s strategic vision.
The 2nd Annual Tole Mour Leadership Conference 2024 promises to be a pivotal event in shaping the future of healthcare in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, with a focus on achieving health equity and sustainable development goals.
For further information and updates on the conference proceedings, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
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