RMI Media Release and photo, 14 June, Majuro - A Memorandum of Understanding to pave the way for the implementation of the Pacific Adaptation to Climate Change Project in the Marshall Islands has been signed this week on Tuesday June 14th, 2011.
The MOU was signed by (pictured L-R) the Majuro Water Sewer Company (MWSC) Manager Mr. Hirobo Obeketang, MEC Board of Directors Chairman Hon. Minister Maynard Alfred, and the Office of Environmental Planning and Policy Coordination (OEPPC) Director Ms Yumiko Crisostomo.
The scope of the MOU is to address the issue of leakages and high evaporation rates of the current water storage facilities at the airport reservoir which is maintained by the MWSC.
This is the first major climate proofing pilot 
project for RMI that is in line with the Climate Change Policy Framework and the Water Policy.
The MOU is underpinned by the need to address climate change issues in the water sector during extreme drought events. It establishes principles and guidelines of the two organizations to collaborate and improve the delivery of fresh water supply to communities in Majuro who are affected by extreme climate events such as drought, tidal surge, leakages in water holding tanks and reticulated network system.
Both organisations have a mutual agreement to support each other through the PACC project in joint planning activities in the water sector, including staff training and exercises, public information and awareness and demonstrating measures to reduce vulnerability and increase resilience in climate change.
The OEPPC is the executive authority and focal point of the PACC project while the MWSC is the main national implementing partner to carry out the necessary development and repair works of the water holding tanks at the airport reservoir and its reticulation system.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by both staff of OEPPC, MWSC and the Marshall Islands Journal representative Ms. Suzanne Chutaro. The MOU is in effect and will end upon the expiration of the project.