Tarawa, Kiribati – Today, Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) Tony Greubel presided over a grant signing ceremony with two non-governmental organizations, the Kiribati Irekenrao Country Women Organization and the Possibility Network.
CDA Greubel said, “With a grant of US$15,000 (AUD21,650), the Kiribati Irekenrao Country Women Organization will initiate a project that will promote economic prosperity in local communities in Kiribati by increasing skills and expanding opportunities for participants in Tarawa and the outer islands to earn a livelihood.”
The project will provide instruction in traditional arts, such as mat weaving, decorative wall hanging and jewelry making. It will also incorporate income-generating activities such as sewing and cooking. To ensure the training is sustainable and reaches more I-Kiribati, the project implementers will develop a radio program to air weekly to encourage participants to continually increase their skills.
“The Possibility Network will receive a grant of US$3,500 (AUD5,050) to continue their commendable work amplifying cultural exchanges and promoting understanding of the deep ties between Kiribati and the United States,” said CDA Greubel.
The Possibility Network will convene a panel discussion on the U.S.-Kiribati relationship to encourage I-Kiribati to pursue scholarships, fellowships, and training opportunities in America.
CDA Gruebel applauded both grantees for their successful proposals and reiterated the importance of strengthened alliances and partnerships as a cornerstone of the U.S. government’s efforts to build a more prosperous, resilient, and secure Pacific region.