HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0598.001 2022-2024 COUNTY CL..; K
COUNTY OF HAWAIi
TESTIMONY—ANNUAL SISTER CITY REPORT December 5, 2023 Th73 DEC -5 AN o: 59
Testimony from Cheryl Kurashige, Kona Okinawa Kenjinkai
Today, I would like to say a few words in support of the Kumejima sister city relationship with
the County of Hawaii. Before I begin, I would also like to commend Jane Clement for doing an
excellent job of maintaining ties with Kumjeima this past year and all the sister cities connected
with the County of Hawaii. Jane was able to plan and execute agendas and activities which
created lasting memories for all participants, whether in person or online.
Based on two locations where deep sea water is used to produce food and clean energy, the
County of Hawaii established a sister island relationship with Kumejima in 2011. A small island,
62 miles west of Naha, Okinawa, Kumejima is the only location outside of West Hawaii with an
OTEC facility. This special connection has created a longstanding relationship where
commerce and industry have been cultivated.
Initially, the OTEC plant in West Hawaii provided an opportunity for Hawaii County to host
workshops on ocean energy. Now the State Energy Office and the Okinawa Prefecture meet
every year to hold a taskforce meeting in Hawaii to discuss clean energy ideas.
Prior to the pandemic students from Kumejima High School participated in a student exchange
with Konawaena High School to experience student life and to enjoy the culture and beauty of
Hawaii island.
Kumejima has benefited from this exchange by improving their island resources, increasing their
island products (sea grapes, cosmetics, awamori, prawns, agricultural products including
mangos and even coffee) and from an educational perspective, student are inspired to excel
and visit Hawaii when possible.
This sister city relationship is important to the island of Kumejima, and they value the
connections and friendship made over the years to improve the quality of life and industry
on their island as they move toward more self sustainability.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/Cheryl Kurashige, President
Kona Okinawa Kenjinkai
Email: kurashige808(a�hotmail.com
Cell: 808/640-5104
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