MAJURO, April 8, 2026 - Communities in the Republic of the Marshall Islands will be better protected from climate and disaster risks through new World Bank support to strengthen urban resilience, safeguard livelihoods, and support jobs in Majuro, the country's capital and main economic center.
The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) is one of the world's most exposed countries to the impacts of climate change and natural hazards. Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, flooding, droughts, and extreme weather events are increasing risks to urban areas, infrastructure, and economic activity. These risks are most pronounced in Majuro, where the largest share of the population, government functions, and economic opportunities are concentrated.
The additional financing for the RMI Urban Resilience Project will scale up urban resilience investments in public buildings and spaces, strengthen national disaster preparedness and response systems, and build institutional capacity for risk-informed urban planning. It will also expand support for building code implementation and deliver resilient, multi-purpose emergency management facilities to improve coordination and response during disasters.
"This additional financing allows us to protect and expand critical investments that are essential for safeguarding our communities, infrastructure, and public services against climate and disaster risks," said Honorable Thomas Heine, Minister of Public Works, Infrastructure and Utilities. "By strengthening coastal protection, public facilities, and emergency preparedness, we are investing in a safer and more resilient future for the Marshall Islands."
A significant share of the support will focus on Majuro, where risks are most acute. Investments will reduce exposure to coastal flooding, strengthen the resilience of public infrastructure, and ensure emergency facilities can support coordinated responses and maintain essential services during disasters.
The project will also support local jobs and economic activity through civil works, while strengthening the systems needed for long-term growth, including urban planning and building standards. By reducing the impact of disasters, these investments help protect businesses, incomes, and opportunities.
"Urban resilience is essential for protecting lives, sustaining jobs, and supporting economic opportunity in the Marshall Islands," said Omar Lyasse, World Bank Resident Representative for the North Pacific. "This additional financing builds on strong progress and will help communities, businesses, and government better manage climate and disaster risks."
"These investments will help ensure that our urban areas can continue to function during crises-supporting public safety, mobility, and economic activity while also improving the quality and resilience of public spaces for our communities," said Honorable Bremity Lakjohn, Minister-in-Assistance to the President and Environment.
Preparation of the World Bank's additional financing was supported by the Africa Caribbean Pacific-European Union Disaster Risk Management Programme, and the Japan-World Bank Program for Mainstreaming Disaster Risk Management in Developing Countries, both managed by the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery.
