A new X-ray scanning machine has been installed at Kosrae International Airport to improve border security and protect the local environment. The official handover took place in a ceremony attended by leaders from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Kosrae State officials, technical experts, and international development partners.
The ceremony featured speeches from FSM Vice President Aren B. Palik and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Deputy Resident Representative for the North Pacific, Kevin Petrini. The event concluded with a formal signing of the handover certificate and a symbolic photo session at the airport’s arrival area.
The new scanner was funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF-6) through the FSM Invasive Alien Species (IAS) Project. The project is managed by the FSM Department of Resources and Development’s Agriculture Division, with technical support from the UNDP.
Vice President Palik said the equipment serves a purpose beyond improving border control.
“This installation is about more than security—it’s about protecting our fragile ecosystems, safeguarding our biodiversity, and preserving the natural heritage of Kosrae and the FSM. We thank all our partners, especially the UNDP, for helping us bring this vision to life,” Palik said.
UNDP’s Kevin Petrini described the scanner as an important tool in the fight against invasive species.
“This may look like a simple machine, but it has a big impact. It helps Kosrae stop threats like the little fire ant and brown tree snake from entering. This is a strong example of what we can do together to protect the environment and the communities that depend on it,” he said.
The scanner’s installation followed a detailed assessment of FSM’s biosecurity needs. The GEF-6 IAS Project launched a procurement process that led to the delivery and setup of the machine at Kosrae’s airport. Local airport and quarantine staff received training to operate the equipment, ensuring long-term and effective use.
The handover event marked the success of months of collaboration between national leaders, state officials, and international partners. It also showed FSM’s commitment to strengthening its ecological protection measures.
As the country continues to deal with the effects of climate change and increased global travel, this investment in early detection and prevention is seen as a key move towards a safer and more sustainable future.
