Port Moresby , Papua New Guinea, August 4, 2026 – The Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), in partnership with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) with the support of the Government of Australia, convened a validation workshop in Port Moresby to review and endorse the full funding proposal for the project, Enhancing Climate-Resilient Water Security in Remote Vulnerable Regions of New Ireland, Papua New Guinea.

The full funding proposal has been developed with the support ClimateABILITY PTY LTD, SPREP, CCDA, provincial stakeholders and local communities through technical assistance provided by GGGI under its Climate Finance Access Network (CFAN) and Climate Finance Initiative for Resilience and a Sustainable Transition (FIRST) projects, aiming to address growing climate-related water security challenges in New Ireland Province, where prolonged droughts, changing rainfall patterns, rising temperatures, sea-level rise, and saltwater intrusion are threatening access to safe and reliable water sources.  

The project seeks to strengthen climate resilience through climate-resilient water infrastructure, improved water management systems, community-based adaptation measures, and enhanced institutional capacity and the workshop brought together representatives from the New Ireland Provincial Administration, Water PNG, government agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, and the local communities to validate the project’s design, implementation arrangements, and proposed investments.  

Participants confirmed that the proposal aligns with national and provincial development priorities and responds to the needs of vulnerable communities. 

Speaking at the workshop, Chief Executive Officer of the New Ireland Provincial Administration, Mr. Edward Lasisi, emphasized the importance of strengthening long-term water security across the province. 

“Water security is a priority for New Ireland Province and remains central to our development agenda. Many communities continue to rely on rainwater harvesting and small-scale water systems that are increasingly vulnerable to prolonged dry periods and climate variability. Investing in climate-resilient water infrastructure is essential to securing sustainable water access for our people,” said Mr. Lasisi. 

The project builds on lessons from recent climate-related drought events, including the severe drought experienced across Papua New Guinea in 2022, which highlighted the vulnerability of rural communities and critical water systems to climate shocks. Through a partnership involving CCDA, SPREP, GGGI, Water PNG, the New Ireland Provincial Administration, and local communities, the initiative aims to improve access to reliable water services while protecting livelihoods, public health, and food security. 

Ms. Debra Sungi, Acting Managing Director of CCDA, highlighted the importance of adaptation investments for vulnerable communities. 

“Climate change is already affecting water resources across Papua New Guinea, placing increasing pressure on communities, livelihoods, and essential services. Strengthening water security and resilience is critical to protecting vulnerable communities and advancing sustainable development. This project represents an important opportunity to deliver targeted adaptation investments where they are needed most,” said Ms. Sungi. 

As Papua New Guinea’s National Designated Authority for climate finance, CCDA continues to work with development partners to mobilize international climate finance that supports national climate and development priorities. 

GGGI Country Representative for Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, Mr. Mohammad Ali Shaikh, underscored the value of collaboration and country ownership in advancing climate-resilient development. 

“The project has been developed through extensive consultation and technical collaboration to ensure that proposed interventions are practical, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of communities in New Ireland. GGGI remains committed to supporting Papua New Guinea in developing high-impact climate projects and mobilizing finance that delivers sustainable development outcomes for vulnerable communities,” said Mr. Shaikh. 

The validation workshop marks a key milestone in the project development process and reflects a shared commitment by the Government of Papua New Guinea, the Government of Australia, development partners, provincial authorities, and local communities to strengthen climate resilience and improve access to climate finance. 

As a next step, feedback from stakeholders will be incorporated into the final funding proposal before its submission by SPREP to the Adaptation Fund Board for consideration at its 47th meeting in October 2026. If approved, the project will support the delivery of climate-resilient water infrastructure and services for vulnerable communities in New Ireland Province, contributing to long-term water security and resilience to climate change impacts.