The CTI-CFF Regional Secretariat Visit to Papua New Guinea

A team from the Regional Secretariat, consisting of Mr. Brian Gonne Nerre (FOM) and Ms. Reita Kalalo (FAM), led by Executive Director Dr. Mohd. Kushairi bin Mohd. Rajuddin, visited Papua New Guinea from 27 to 31 May 2023.

The visit began at Bootless Bay Marine Protected Area (MPA), where the team observed a coral rehabilitation demonstration conducted by IRI Coral in collaboration with the Director of the Papua New Guinea Conservation and Environmental Protection Agency (CEPA), Ms. Kay Kumaras Kalim, and her team. It was an insightful experience, providing a firsthand view of the efforts being made to preserve and restore the region's precious coral reefs.

This initiative exemplifies how a sustainable blue approach can generate transformative livelihoods while protecting PNG's incredible marine biodiversity. Hiri Coral PNG shared their success story with the Regional Secretariat team. The project, funded by UNDP PNG GEF, focuses on rebuilding coral reefs using climate-resilient corals farmed within the Bootless Bay National Marine Sanctuary and outplanted in degraded reefs. The demonstration was witnessed by Loloata Island Resort General Manager Uday Kumar, Councillor for Gwarumemase Hon. Mary Kuseni, senior CEPA managers, and local fisher families and youth.

On the second day, the team engaged in an exciting activity—scuba diving—led by Ms. Kay Kumaras Kalim and Ms. Yvonne Tio. Participants explored the underwater world of Bootless Bay, witnessing the vibrant marine life thriving within the MPA.

The following days were filled with productive meetings. On 29 May 2023, the team convened at the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) Meeting Room to discuss the implementation of RPOA 2.0 and the development of the National Plan of Action (NPOA) with the National Coordinating Committee (NCC) of Papua New Guinea. Participants included Mr. Jude representing CSO, Ms. Kay Kumaras Kalim, the Director of CEPA and NCC Focal Point, and Ms. Yvonne Tio, CEPA Manager and NCC representative.

Following the CEPA meeting, the team met with the National Fisheries Department. Attendees included Mr. John Dotson, Acting Managing Director of NFD; Mr. Anas Aisi, Executive Manager of FMU; Ms. Angela Kwapena, Manager of Resource Assessment; Mr. Terrence, Manager for Coastal Fisheries; and Ms. Yvonne Tio, CEPA Manager. Discussions focused on the management and conservation of fisheries resources through the EAFM Working Group, led by PNG.

Later in the day, the team met with the Climate Change Development Authority (CCDA) to discuss climate change adaptation initiatives and projects. Participants included Jacob, Director of Adaptation at CCDA; Mr. Iki Pieter, Acting Manager for Adaptation; as well as Ms. Garau Podi, Mr. Joe Kunda, Mr. Albert Milala, Ms. Joy Simo, Mr. Ruben Robin Kipoi, and Ms. Yvonne Tio. The meeting highlighted CCDA's initiatives, including community-based mangrove planting, capacity building, blue carbon projects, and the national adaptation plan, which has been launched and integrated into the IPCC adaptation project.

The following day, the Regional Secretariat team met with the Department of Treasury. Attendees included Mr. John Waure, Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Department; Ms. Yvonne Tio from CEPA and NCC; and Ms. Martha Wamo, also representing CEPA and NCC.

The final engagement in PNG was a discussion at the Department of Foreign Affairs. Participants included the Foreign Affairs team, Ms. Yvonne Tio from CEPA and NCC, and Ms. Martha Wamo, also representing CEPA and NCC. The discussion aimed to strengthen partnerships and ensure PNG is prepared to lead the CTI-CFF in the next term rotation, following the alphabetical order.

Overall, the trip to PNG was marked by insightful field visits, productive meetings, and meaningful discussions. It reinforced the commitment of both the Regional Secretariat and the NCC of PNG to collaborate on preserving the natural heritage and addressing key environmental concerns.