Majuro, Marshall Islands – JANUARY 28 2025 – The 2nd National Socio-Economic and Climate Change Summit ignited a powerful conversation on the future of our nation, with a clear call to action for all sectors to unite in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and socio-economic development.
Hon. Minister Jesse Gasper, RMI Ministry of Culture & Internal Affairs, led the session as Chair, with Secretary Francyne Wase-Jacklick serving as Vice-Chair. Together, they championed the Social and Culture Pillar, where our shared vision for a resilient and inclusive future was articulated.
Key presentations highlighted both the urgency and opportunity for progress:
• Secretary Brenda Alik emphasized that social justice and equitable access to services are non-negotiable. She called on the government to prioritize vulnerable communities and invest in sustainable social protection to uplift every citizen, ensuring no one is left behind.
• Laukon and Commissioner Nimmer, from the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Public School System School System, spoke of the education crisis due to out-migration and dwindling enrollment. They boldly urged the government to invest in digital tools, teacher training, and education infrastructure so that every child—no matter where they live—has access to quality learning.
• Donna Note, WUTMI RMI Executive Director, Marie Maddison, Advisor, underscored the vital role of women’s leadership in driving change, demanding inclusive policies and cultural resilience to address the interconnected impacts of climate change and social justice.
• Secretary Francyne Wase-Jacklick called for a health system that delivers on its promise of accessibility, quality, and sustainability. She emphasized the need for more investment in infrastructure, workforce development, and preparedness to protect the health of all Marshallese people in the face of growing challenges.
Dr. Wilfred ‘lobaiwod’ Alik , Interim Deputy Secretary, and Charles Lomae Lomae, Director of Outer Island Health Care Services, not only provided insight into the way forward but also acknowledged the significant challenges within the sector, particularly the critical need for more engagement in the area of health assistants. They highlighted the urgency of addressing workforce shortages, improving supply chain management, and ensuring reliable access to medical supplies. Both emphasized the need for increased action to strengthen the health workforce and enhance healthcare infrastructure, particularly in the outer islands, to ensure equitable healthcare delivery for all. In response to these challenges, a meeting has been scheduled with the Marshall Islands Mayors Association (MIMA) and MoHHS to discuss collaborative efforts and explore solutions for improving healthcare services across the islands.
This summit was not just an event—it was a rallying cry for collective action. We must respond to the call for increased collaboration, to build a more resilient health system, foster inclusive education, and preserve cultural heritage for future generations.
For more details, please contact the Ministry of Health and Human Services at communications@rmihealth.org.
