7TH November 2024, Ebeye, MH — In a monumental step toward improving public health, the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MoHHS) proudly launched the "Man Nam Ne Project" Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) initiative and officially opened a cutting-edge SIT Lab in Ebeye. This innovative project marks a turning point in the fight against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, bringing tangible solutions to protect the lives of the Marshallese people and future generations.
Hon. Joe Bejang, Acting Minister of Health and Minister of Education, spearheaded the event alongside key dignitaries including President Hilda Heine, traditional leaders, representatives from the Kwajalein Atoll Local Government, landowners, the Ebeye Leadership Team, and partners from the Pacific Island Health Officers Association (PIHOA) and OXITEC.
While Iroijlaplap Michael Kabua could not attend, he sent one of his trusted representatives, Hon. Morrison Jr. Kabua James, Mayor of Ujae, to deliver his heartfelt message of support for the project. Minister Bejang emphasized the significance of this initiative, stressing how health and education go hand in hand to create a brighter, healthier future. “This project is not just a milestone for the MoHHS, but for our entire nation. Together, we are creating lasting change. We are standing up for the health of our people, and the results of today’s work will ripple through generations,” said Minister Bejang.
The event featured a moving program that brought the community together in solidarity. The Kwajalein Atoll United Church of Christ began the ceremony with the national anthem, followed by an opening prayer led by Reverend Kiomo Lalimo. In his welcoming remarks, Hon. Morrison Jr. Kabua James, representing Iroijlaplap Michael Kabua, expressed his commitment to supporting projects that protect the future of the Marshall Islands. Ms. Emi Chutaro, Executive Director of PIHOA, also spoke about the importance of this collaboration in advancing public health across the Pacific.
A highlight of the ceremony was the ribbon-cutting for the new SIT Lab, a state-of-the-art facility that will house the technology central to the "Man Nam Ne Project." Leroij Anta Kabua John led the ribbon-cutting, symbolizing the start of a new chapter in mosquito control. To mark the project’s official launch, Mayor Kabua released the first batch of sterile male mosquitoes, a crucial step in reducing mosquito populations in the region and ensuring the health and safety of the community.
The MoHHS acknowledges and thanks the dedicated Project Planning Team at the Ministry, the Ebeye Team, the Kwajalein Atoll Local Government, traditional leaders, PIHOA, and OXITEC for their tireless efforts in making today’s achievement possible. This collaboration is a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when we work together for the well-being of our people.
The new SIT Lab will serve as a hub for advanced, environmentally friendly mosquito control, using sterile insect technology to target and reduce mosquito populations safely. This is just the beginning — the "Man Nam Ne Project" represents a forward-thinking, sustainable solution to vector-borne diseases that will ultimately improve public health, protect lives, and ensure a healthier future for all.
The launch is a call to action for all of us. As we take this step, we invite every member of our community to join us in supporting this vital initiative. Together, we can ensure a mosquito-borne-disease-free future for the Republic of the Marshall Islands.
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